Easy Ground Turkey Stuffed Peppers Recipe – Healthy & Delicious Dinner Idea!

Table of Contents: Ground Turkey Stuffed Peppers

Are you craving a dinner that’s both incredibly satisfying and surprisingly easy to make? Imagine sinking your teeth into tender bell peppers packed with a savory, flavorful ground turkey filling, all bathed in a creamy sauce. It’s not a dream, it’s our Easy Ground Turkey Stuffed Peppers recipe! This family-friendly dish is a total crowd-pleaser, offering a healthy twist on a classic comfort food. We’re sharing a recipe that’s so simple, even beginner cooks can master it, making those hectic weeknights a little less stressful. Speaking of easy, this recipe is a fantastic alternative to our popular Chicken and Rice Casserole, offering a similar comforting feel with a boost of protein and vibrant colors. Get ready to discover a delicious meal that will become a staple in your household!

What is Ground Turkey Stuffed Peppers?

Ever wonder where the name “Ground Turkey Stuffed Peppers” even comes from? Well, it’s pretty straightforward, isn’t it? It’s a delightful combination of ground turkey (the star of the show!), lovingly stuffed inside colorful bell peppers. Now, why “stuffed”? Because, quite simply, the peppers are generously filled with a yummy mixture! It’s a culinary hug in a pepper, if you will. The idea might seem simple, but the flavors that develop during baking are absolutely incredible. It’s a recipe born out of a desire for a wholesome, flavorful meal that’s also incredibly versatile – you can tweak the fillings to your heart’s content. After all, the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, and this recipe is guaranteed to win everyone over. Ready to dive in and create something delicious? Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Ground Turkey Stuffed Peppers Recipe

This Ground Turkey Stuffed Peppers recipe is a winner for so many reasons. First and foremost, it’s packed with goodness! Ground turkey is a lean protein, making this a healthier alternative to traditional stuffed peppers. But don’t let “healthy” fool you – these peppers are bursting with flavor! We use a blend of savory seasonings, aromatic vegetables, and a touch of richness that will tantalize your taste buds. And the best part? It’s incredibly cost-effective to make at home. Buying ground turkey in bulk and utilizing readily available vegetables makes this a budget-friendly dinner option. The vibrant colors of the bell peppers and the comforting warmth of the filling create a visually appealing and satisfying meal. If you’re looking for another simple yet delicious way to use ground meat, you might also enjoy our Easy Beef and Broccoli, found right here on Crystal Recipes. Give this recipe a try – you won’t be disappointed!

How to Make Ground Turkey Stuffed Peppers

Ground Turkey Stuffed Peppers
Ground Turkey Stuffed Peppers

Quick Overview

This recipe for Ground Turkey Stuffed Peppers is designed for simplicity and speed. In about 45 minutes, you’ll have a vibrant and flavorful dinner ready to enjoy. The process involves sautéing the filling ingredients, assembling the stuffed peppers, and then baking until tender. The result is a comforting and satisfying meal with layers of deliciousness.

Key Ingredients for Ground Turkey Stuffed Peppers:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 pound ground turkey
  • 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
  • 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 4 large bell peppers (any color), tops removed and seeded
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. Sauté Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Brown the Turkey: Add ground turkey to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain any excess grease.
4. Add Remaining Filling: Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, cooked rice, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Stuff the Peppers: Place the bell peppers upright in the prepared baking dish. Spoon the turkey filling generously into each pepper.
6. Bake: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and sprinkle the tops of the peppers with shredded cheddar cheese (if using). Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Rest and Serve: Let the stuffed peppers rest for a few minutes before serving.

What to Serve Ground Turkey Stuffed Peppers With

These hearty Ground Turkey Stuffed Peppers are fantastic on their own, but they pair wonderfully with a few simple sides. A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the peppers. A side of crusty bread is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce. Roasted broccoli or green beans offer a healthy and colorful addition. For a complete meal, consider serving them alongside a simple quinoa or couscous. A light and crisp white wine would also complement the flavors beautifully. You can find more delicious side dish ideas on our page dedicated to easy weeknight meals.

Top Tips for Perfecting Ground Turkey Stuffed Peppers

  1. Rice Consistency: Make sure your cooked rice isn’t too wet, or the filling might be soggy.
  2. Pepper Variation: Feel free to use different colored bell peppers for a more visually appealing dish.
  3. Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling for a little heat.
  4. Cheese Choice: Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a Mexican blend cheese also work well.
  5. Make Ahead: You can assemble the stuffed peppers a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator, ready to bake when needed.

Storing and Reheating Tips: Ground Turkey Stuffed Peppers

Ground Turkey Stuffed Peppers
Ground Turkey Stuffed Peppers

Leftover Ground Turkey Stuffed Peppers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, they can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw the frozen peppers in the refrigerator overnight and then bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave or stovetop.

People Also Ask: Ground Turkey Stuffed Peppers

Do you have to cook the ground turkey before stuffing the peppers?

Yes, it is essential to cook the ground turkey thoroughly before stuffing the peppers. This ensures that the turkey is safe to eat and that it’s fully browned, which enhances its flavor in the filling. You can brown it in a skillet over medium heat until no pink remains and any excess grease is drained. This step also helps the turkey to crumble nicely and integrate well with the other filling ingredients.

Should I parboil the peppers before stuffing them?

Parboiling the peppers is optional but can help to soften them slightly, especially if you’re using larger or thicker bell peppers. If you do parboil them, blanch them in boiling water for about 5-7 minutes, then drain and cool. This can reduce the overall baking time and ensure the peppers are tender when they’re finished. However, many people prefer to stuff them directly and let the oven do the work.

What is a good filling for turkey stuffed peppers besides rice?

While rice is a classic choice, there are many other delicious options for filling your Ground Turkey Stuffed Peppers. Quinoa is a healthy and protein-rich alternative. You could also use barley or couscous. For a heartier filling, try adding cooked lentils or beans. Even crumbled bread or a mix of vegetables like corn, black beans, and zucchini can create a flavorful and satisfying stuffing.

How long do turkey stuffed peppers take to bake?

Generally, Ground Turkey Stuffed Peppers take about 35-45 minutes to bake at 375°F (190°C). However, the exact baking time can vary depending on the size of the peppers and your oven. You’ll know they’re ready when the peppers are tender and the filling is heated through. The foil covering helps to steam the peppers initially, while removing it towards the end allows them to brown and the cheese (if used) to melt.

Conclusion: Ground Turkey Stuffed Peppers

Our Easy Ground Turkey Stuffed Peppers recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy, flavorful, and family-friendly meal. It’s a simple recipe that delivers big on taste and nutrition. Don’t be intimidated by the idea of stuffed peppers – they’re easier to make than you might think! With a few simple steps, you can have a comforting and satisfying dinner on the table in under an hour. We encourage you to try this recipe and let us know what you think in the comments below! You can

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Ground Turkey Stuffed Peppers

Ground Turkey Stuffed Peppers


  • Author: Crystal
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 4 stuffed peppers 1x

Description

Colorful bell peppers stuffed with a savory ground turkey, rice, and tomato mixture, topped with melted cheese.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 large bell peppers (any color)
  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup cooked rice
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish.
  2. Cut tops off bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
  3. In a skillet, heat olive oil and cook onion and garlic until softened.
  4. Add ground turkey and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
  5. Stir in diced tomatoes, cooked rice, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer 5 minutes.
  6. Stuff mixture evenly into peppers and place in baking dish.
  7. Top with shredded cheese.
  8. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10 minutes until cheese is bubbly.
  9. Serve warm.

Notes

You can substitute quinoa for rice for a healthier twist.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 stuffed pepper
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 520mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 27g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: ground turkey stuffed peppers, healthy stuffed peppers, baked peppers

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