Savory Turkey Stuffed Peppers

This hearty stuffed bell pepper recipe transforms simple ingredients into a colorful, nutritious dinner that's become a weeknight favorite in my home. The combination of lean turkey, aromatic vegetables, and cheese creates a satisfying meal that feels indulgent while still being wholesome.

I first made these stuffed peppers when looking for creative ways to use ground turkey, and they've since become my go-to recipe when entertaining health-conscious friends. The vibrant peppers always draw compliments about both presentation and flavor.

Ingredients

• 4 large bell peppers: Choose firm peppers with smooth skin in any color you prefer. Red and yellow offer sweeter flavor while green provides a more earthy taste.
• 1 pound ground turkey: Look for lean meat that's at least 93% fat free for the best balance of flavor and nutrition.
• 1 cup cooked rice: Either white or brown works beautifully. Brown rice adds extra fiber and a pleasant nutty flavor.
• 1 small onion: Select a firm onion with tight skin for the freshest flavor in your filling.
• 2 cloves garlic: Fresh garlic provides aromatic depth that powdered simply cannot match.
• 1 can diced tomatoes: The 14.5 oz size adds perfect moisture without making the filling soggy.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: This herb blend brings Mediterranean flavor that perfectly complements the turkey and vegetables.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Proper seasoning elevates all the flavors in this dish.
• 1 cup shredded cheese: A melty cheese like mozzarella or sharp cheddar creates the perfect golden topping.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Use good quality oil for sautéing the aromatics and coating the peppers.
• Fresh parsley for garnish: The bright green color and fresh flavor add a beautiful finishing touch.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 375°F ensuring it reaches full temperature before adding the peppers. This consistent heat helps cook the peppers evenly without scorching them.

Prepare the Bell Peppers:

Cut off the tops of each bell pepper carefully keeping the stem intact for presentation if desired. Remove all seeds and white membrane thoroughly as they can add bitterness. Brush the outside of each pepper with olive oil which helps them roast beautifully and prevents drying out. Arrange them upright in a baking dish ensuring they fit snugly to prevent tipping over during baking.

Create the Aromatic Base:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until it shimmers slightly. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes stirring occasionally until they become translucent but not browned. The onions should look glossy and soft which indicates their natural sugars are developing.

Add Depth with Garlic:

Add the minced garlic to the softened onions and cook for just one minute stirring constantly to prevent burning. You should immediately smell the aromatic fragrance which signals the garlic is releasing its essential oils and flavor.

Cook the Turkey:

Add ground turkey to the skillet breaking it apart with a wooden spoon into small pieces as it cooks. Continue cooking for 5-7 minutes until no pink remains and the meat has browned evenly. The turkey should be crumbly and firm when properly cooked.

Combine the Filling:

Stir in the cooked rice diced tomatoes and seasonings allowing the mixture to blend together for 2-3 minutes. The filling should be moist but not watery with all ingredients evenly distributed throughout. This brief cooking time allows the flavors to meld while maintaining distinct textures.

Fill the Peppers:

Spoon the turkey mixture into each prepared bell pepper packing it down gently with the back of your spoon. Fill to the top of each pepper without overstuffing which could cause them to split during baking. Top each filled pepper with a generous portion of shredded cheese creating a delicious golden crust when baked.

Bake to Perfection:

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes which allows the peppers to steam and become tender. Remove the foil and continue baking for 10-15 minutes until the cheese is completely melted and beginning to brown in spots. The peppers should be fork tender but still hold their shape.

Rest and Serve:

Allow the peppers to rest for 5 minutes before serving which helps the filling set and makes them easier to transfer to plates. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and fresh flavor just before serving.

Save

The first time I served these peppers to my family, my daughter who typically avoids vegetables cleaned her plate without complaint. The turkey filling conceals the nutritional value while the vibrant peppers make the meal fun and engaging for even picky eaters.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I prepare these stuffed peppers ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the peppers and filling up to 24 hours in advance. Assemble everything but don't bake until ready to serve. Store covered in the refrigerator, then add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.

→ What can I substitute for ground turkey?

Ground chicken, lean beef, or plant-based meat alternatives work well. For a vegetarian version, try a mixture of quinoa and black beans or chopped mushrooms for a meaty texture.

→ How do I know when the bell peppers are properly cooked?

Perfectly cooked bell peppers should be tender when pierced with a fork but still hold their shape. They shouldn't collapse or become mushy. The peppers should maintain their vibrant color while becoming slightly softened.

→ Can I freeze stuffed bell peppers?

Yes, these freeze exceptionally well. Cool completely after baking, then wrap individually in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat from frozen in a 350°F oven for about 30-35 minutes until heated through.

→ What sides pair well with stuffed bell peppers?

A simple green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables complement these stuffed peppers perfectly. For a lighter meal, serve with just a side salad dressed with vinaigrette.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

Add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the turkey mixture while cooking. You could also include hot sauce or cayenne pepper to taste, or top with pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar or mozzarella.