Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers with Ground Turkey Recipe

Welcome to your new favorite dish—homemade stuffed bell peppers with ground turkey from scratch! This delightful and nutritious recipe brings together vibrant bell peppers and savory ground turkey, all anchored in delicious seasoning and wholesome fillers. The origins of stuffed peppers can be traced back to various cuisines, including Italian, Spanish, and Middle Eastern, making this dish a versatile favorite across cultures. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare; not only is it a beautiful addition to your dinner table, but it’s also a dish that is packed with flavor and nutrition. If you are looking for a healthy dinner option or need an impressive yet straightforward dish for entertaining, you will appreciate what these stuffed peppers have to offer. For those on dietary restrictions, there are also variations like vegan stuffed bell peppers with ground turkey or gluten-free adaptations—making it a meal that can please everyone!

Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Serving Size: 4 servings

Ingredients

For the Stuffed Peppers

4 medium bell peppers (any color: green, red, yellow, or orange)
1 pound ground turkey
1 cup cooked rice (white, brown, or quinoa)
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella, cheddar, or a dairy-free alternative)

For the Sauce

1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
1 teaspoon olive oil
1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
1/2 teaspoon dried basil

Possible Ingredient Swaps

Substitute ground turkey with ground chicken, beef, or a plant-based meat alternative for a vegan option.
Use cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice for a low-carb variation.
Opt for low-sodium canned tomatoes and sauce if you prefer lower sodium intake.

Equipment List

Large mixing bowl
Sharp knife and cutting board
Skillet
Measuring cups and spoons
Baking dish
Aluminum foil
Oven mitts

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Peppers: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes inside. This step not only gets your peppers ready for stuffing but allows them to have a vibrant appearance when plated. Rinse and set aside.
Cook the Filling: Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until translucent and fragrant. Then add the minced garlic, cooking for an additional minute until aromatic but not browned.
Add the Turkey: Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground turkey to the skillet. Use a spatula to break it up. Cook for about 6-8 minutes, or until browned and fully cooked. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
Mix in Other Ingredients: Once the turkey is cooked through, remove the skillet from the heat. Fold in the cooked rice and drained diced tomatoes, ensuring everything is well combined with a delightful aroma wafting through your kitchen.
Stuff the Peppers: Fill each bell pepper half with the turkey and rice mixture, packing it down slightly to make sure there’s enough filling. Place the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish.
Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix the tomato sauce, olive oil, sugar, and dried basil. Spread a thin layer of this sauce over each stuffed pepper, allowing the peppers to soak up flavor as they bake.
Bake the Peppers: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and add shredded cheese on top of each pepper. Return them to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Serve: Once they are ready, allow the stuffed peppers to cool for about 5 minutes. Serve warm and enjoy the delightful colors and aromas that will entice your family or guests!

Special Notes

Storing Tips: Leftover stuffed bell peppers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Making Ahead: You can prepare the filling a day in advance and stuff your peppers just before baking. This not only saves time but helps to enhance the flavors!
Troubleshooting: If the filling is too dry, mix in a splash of chicken or vegetable broth. For a richer taste, add in some Worcestershire sauce with your turkey while it cooks.

Variations and Customizations

Gluten-Free: Ensure that all canned products and spices used are gluten-free. The recipe already utilizes naturally gluten-free ingredients.
Vegan Option: Replace ground turkey with a plant-based ground meat substitute, use nutritional yeast in place of cheese, and check that the sauce is free from animal products.
Extra Ingredients: Feel free to personalize your filling by adding black beans, corn, diced zucchini, or mushrooms. Each addition carries its unique flavors and nutrition.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Calories: 320
Protein: 25g
Fat: 12g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 5g

Engaging Visual Details

As you enter the kitchen and start cooking, the enticing aroma of sautéed onions and garlic will fill your space, conjuring a sense of warmth and home. The vibrant colors of the bell peppers will brighten up your kitchen, and as the cheese melts into a golden layer, you’ll be captivated by the sight of these delightful creations. Each stuffed pepper will emerge from the oven glistening with melted cheese, showcasing a beautiful dish that invites family and friends to the table. Consider capturing the vibrant transformations through photos, sharing the journey of preparing this delectable meal.

Conclusion

You now have an easy and delicious recipe for stuffed bell peppers with ground turkey that is sure to become a staple in your home. With the flexibility to accommodate various dietary preferences and the promise of taste in every bite, these stuffed peppers are perfect for any occasion. We encourage you to give this recipe a try and see how it can elevate your dinner table. Leave a comment below if you tried this recipe! Or, share your version on Instagram and tag us with MyDeliciousDish to inspire others with your cooking creativity!