DELICIOUS STUFFED BELL PEPPERS WITH GROUND TURKEY – A HEARTY, HEALTHY DINNER
Meta Description: These stuffed bell peppers with ground turkey are a tasty, wholesome dinner option. Filled with seasoned turkey, rice, and veggies, they’re perfect for a satisfying and nutritious meal!
Introduction:
Stuffed bell peppers with ground turkey are a delicious, healthy option for a filling dinner. Packed with lean ground turkey, rice, vegetables, and spices, these peppers are colorful, flavorful, and easy to make. Whether you’re meal-prepping or cooking for the family, these stuffed peppers are sure to impress!
Ingredients:
- 4 large bell peppers (any color), tops cut off and seeds removed
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 cup cooked rice (white, brown, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option)
- 1/2 cup onion, diced
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1/4 cup diced zucchini or mushrooms (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions:
- Prepare the Peppers: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds. Arrange them in a baking dish.
- Cook the Filling: In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté the diced onion and garlic until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Add the ground turkey and cook until browned. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Add Rice and Veggies: Stir in the cooked rice, diced tomatoes, and optional zucchini or mushrooms. Let the mixture cook for another 3-4 minutes, stirring well to combine.
- Stuff the Peppers: Spoon the turkey and rice mixture into each bell pepper, pressing down to fill fully. Top each pepper with a sprinkle of shredded cheese.
- Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30-35 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top before serving.
Estimated Nutrition Facts (per stuffed pepper):
- Calories: 280
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Protein: 22g
Note: Nutrition facts may vary based on specific ingredients.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
FAQs About Stuffed Bell Peppers
1. Can I make these stuffed peppers ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the filling and stuff the peppers, then refrigerate them uncooked. When ready to bake, just add 5-10 minutes to the cook time.
2. What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store leftover stuffed peppers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
3. Can I freeze stuffed peppers?
Yes! Allow the stuffed peppers to cool completely, then wrap each pepper in foil and store in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake directly from frozen at 350°F for about 30-35 minutes.
4. Can I substitute ground turkey with another protein?
Absolutely! You can use ground chicken, beef, or even a vegetarian alternative like lentils or black beans for a meatless version.
5. How can I make these stuffed peppers lower in carbs?
Swap the rice with cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. It adds a similar texture while keeping the recipe light and keto-friendly.
Cooking Tips for the Best Stuffed Bell Peppers
- Choose Firm Peppers: Look for peppers that are large, firm, and can stand upright. This makes them easier to stuff and bake.
- Pre-Cook the Filling: Cooking the turkey and veggies before stuffing ensures all the flavors meld together beautifully.
- Customize Your Filling: Add extra veggies like corn, black beans, or spinach to make these peppers even more nutritious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Stuffed bell peppers are a balanced meal that brings together protein, veggies, and grains in a colorful, delicious package. Perfect for meal-prep or serving guests, they’re a wholesome option that everyone will enjoy. Plus, they’re easy to customize to fit various dietary preferences!