Looking for a nutritious and vibrant meal that won’t break the bank? Ground Turkey Stuffed Bell Peppers might just be the answer. Did you know that this dish combines protein, veggies, and whole grains into one colorful package? Not only is it packed with flavor, but it also provides an easy way to sneak in various nutrients. In this guide, you’ll learn how to create a delicious and healthy dinner that your whole family will love.
What Are Ground Turkey Stuffed Bell Peppers?
Ground Turkey Stuffed Bell Peppers are a delightful dish featuring bell peppers filled with a savory mixture of ground turkey, vegetables, herbs, and spices. This versatile recipe allows you to customize the stuffing to suit your taste and dietary preferences. Plus, it’s an excellent way to incorporate seasonal produce into your diet, making it a perfect year-round meal.
Quick Facts about Ground Turkey Stuffed Bell Peppers
- Calories per serving: approx. 350 kcal
- Protein: 25 g
- Fat: 15 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Cooking time: 40 minutes
The bell peppers serve as a low-calorie, nutrient-dense vessel while adding vibrant colors and textures to the dish. High in vitamins A and C, they bring not just sweetness but also essential nutrients to your meal. Ground turkey is a lean source of protein, making this dish a healthy choice without sacrificing taste.
Ground Turkey Stuffed Bell Peppers
Ingredients
For the Bell Peppers
- 4 pieces bell peppers Choose large bell peppers for stuffing
For the Filling
- 1 tablespoon olive oil For sautéing
- 1 cup diced onion Provides flavor base
- 1 cup chopped mushrooms Enhances flavor
- 1 pound ground turkey Lean protein source
- 1 cup cooked brown rice Can substitute with quinoa or cauliflower rice for gluten-free
- 1 cup pasta sauce Half for stuffing, half for baking
- 2 cups water For baking
- 1 cup shredded cheese For topping
- to taste salt and pepper For seasoning
Instructions
Preparation
- Slice off the tops of the bell peppers and remove the seeds and core.
- In a pan preheated with olive oil over medium heat, sauté the diced onion and chopped mushrooms until golden brown.
Cooking
- Add the ground turkey to the pan and cook until no longer pink.
- Stir in the cooked brown rice and half of the pasta sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Assembly
- Evenly spoon the turkey mixture into each hollowed bell pepper.
- In a baking dish, combine the remaining pasta sauce with water and pour it into the dish. Place the stuffed peppers upright and top with shredded cheese.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 40 minutes.
Serving
- Serve warm and enjoy your delightful meal!
Notes
Nutrition
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make Ground Turkey Stuffed Bell Peppers that are full of flavor and nutrition:
Prepare the Bell Peppers: Slice off the tops of 4 bell peppers and remove the seeds and core. The cutting will create a hollow vessel for the filling, so they are ready for stuffing.
Sauté the Vegetables: In a pan preheated with 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat, sauté 1 diced onion and 1 cup of chopped mushrooms until golden brown. This step enhances the flavors and adds a delicious base to the stuffing.
Cook the Turkey: Add 1 pound of ground turkey to the pan, breaking up the meat with your spatula as you brown it. Cook until the turkey is no longer pink, ensuring it’s fully cooked.
Mix in the Extras: Stir in 1 cup of cooked brown rice and half of your favorite pasta sauce (about 1 cup). Season with salt and pepper to taste, mixing thoroughly.
Stuff the Peppers: Evenly spoon the turkey mixture into each hollowed bell pepper, packing it down a bit to ensure they’re full and delicious.
Bake them Up: In a baking dish, combine the remaining sauce with 2 cups of water and pour it into the dish. Place the stuffed peppers upright and top each with shredded cheese. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 40 minutes.
Serve warm and enjoy your delightful meal!
Variations & Substitutes
This recipe is versatile, allowing for many variations based on dietary preferences:
- Gluten-Free: Use quinoa or cauliflower rice instead of brown rice.
- Vegetarian: Substitute ground turkey with lentils or chickpeas for a plant-based option.
- Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes to give your stuffing a kick.
Each substitution alters the flavor profile and nutritional content, making this recipe adaptable for everyone.
Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these common beginner errors to ensure your stuffed peppers are a success:
- Not Cooking the Turkey Thoroughly: Always make sure your turkey reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to avoid foodborne illnesses.
- Overcooking the Peppers: Aim for a slight tenderness. If cooked too long, they may become mushy.
- Choosing the Wrong Pepper Size: Ensure the peppers are large enough to hold the filling without bursting.
- Skipping the Seasoning: Don’t forget to taste and adjust seasoning as flavors meld together.
- Not Adding Enough Sauce: Use enough sauce to keep the peppers moist while they bake.
Check each step off your list to guarantee a delicious outcome!
Storage & Reuse
Leftover stuffed peppers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. They can also be frozen in airtight containers for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or use a microwave for quick reheating.
Related Recipes / See Also
If you love this, try our [Quinoa Stuffed Peppers], [Zucchini Boats], or [Cheesy Taco Bake]. These recipes share a similar style and are packed with flavor!
Conclusion
Ground Turkey Stuffed Bell Peppers provide a nutritious and delicious option for any meal. With customizable ingredients and preparation techniques, this dish is perfect for busy families or meal prep enthusiasts. Try this recipe today to enjoy a delightful dinner that everyone will crave!
