Stuffed peppers are the ultimate comfort food—wholesome, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. This Ground Turkey Stuffed Peppers recipe takes a healthy spin on the classic by swapping ground beef for lean turkey while keeping all the rich, delicious flavors intact. Whether you’re looking for a hearty weeknight meal, a nutritious family dinner, or a dish that’s perfect for meal prep, these stuffed peppers check every box.
What makes this dish so fantastic? It’s a one-pan meal packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins. The bell peppers serve as natural edible bowls, filled to the brim with a delicious blend of seasoned ground turkey, rice, tomatoes, and gooey melted cheese. Plus, this recipe is endlessly customizable, allowing you to tweak the flavors to suit your taste. And the best part? It’s super easy to prepare with simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Ground Turkey Stuffed Peppers Recipe
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Healthy yet satisfying – Ground turkey is a leaner alternative to beef, reducing saturated fat without sacrificing flavor.
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Protein-packed meal – Each serving is rich in protein, making it a perfect post-workout or energy-boosting meal.
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Loaded with veggies – Bell peppers bring natural sweetness and are packed with vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber.
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Customizable – You can switch up the filling by adding different grains, vegetables, or spices to match your preference.
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Perfect for meal prep – Make a batch ahead of time and enjoy leftovers for days. These stuffed peppers store and reheat beautifully.
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One-pan convenience – All you need is a single pan to cook the filling before stuffing the peppers, making cleanup a breeze.
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Kid-friendly and family-approved – Even picky eaters love the cheesy, flavorful stuffing inside the peppers.
Preparation Time and Yield
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Prep Time: 15 minutes
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Cook Time: 35 minutes
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Total Time: 50 minutes
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Yield: 6 stuffed peppers (serves 3-6)
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
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Calories: 320
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Carbohydrates: 28g
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Protein: 27g
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Fat: 10g
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Fiber: 6g
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Sugar: 7g
Ingredients for Ground Turkey Stuffed Peppers
For the Peppers:
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6 large bell peppers (any color, but red, yellow, and orange are sweeter)
For the Filling:
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1 pound ground turkey
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1 cup cooked rice (white, brown, or quinoa for a healthier option)
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
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½ cup tomato sauce (plus extra for topping)
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1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
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½ teaspoon paprika
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½ teaspoon cumin (optional, for added depth)
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½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
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¼ teaspoon black pepper
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½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
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1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
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1 tablespoon olive oil
For Garnishing (Optional):
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Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
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Extra shredded cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions for Ground Turkey Stuffed Peppers
Step 1: Prepare the Bell Peppers
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Slice the tops off the bell peppers and carefully remove the seeds and membranes.
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Lightly brush the inside of each pepper with olive oil and place them upright in a lightly greased baking dish.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Turkey Mixture
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Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
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Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened.
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Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
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Add the ground turkey and cook until browned and fully cooked (about 5 minutes), breaking it apart with a spoon.
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Season with salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, paprika, and cumin.
Step 3: Add the Tomatoes and Rice
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Stir in the diced tomatoes and tomato sauce, letting everything simmer for about 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
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Mix in the cooked rice and let it warm through for another 1-2 minutes.
Step 4: Stuff the Peppers
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Spoon the turkey mixture evenly into the prepared bell peppers, pressing down slightly to pack them.
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Pour a little extra tomato sauce over the top of each pepper for added moisture and flavor.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
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Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
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Remove the foil, sprinkle shredded cheese over each stuffed pepper, and bake uncovered for 10 more minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
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Remove from the oven and let the stuffed peppers sit for 5 minutes before serving.
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Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro and enjoy!
Ingredient Background
Bell peppers are not only vibrant and delicious but also packed with vitamins and antioxidants. They come in various colors, each offering a slightly different taste. Red, yellow, and orange bell peppers tend to be sweeter, while green ones have a more earthy, slightly bitter taste. These peppers are rich in vitamin C, vitamin A, and fiber, making them an excellent addition to a balanced diet.
Ground turkey is a fantastic lean protein option, lower in fat than beef but just as versatile. It absorbs flavors well, making it perfect for seasoning with herbs and spices. Turkey is an excellent source of B vitamins, selenium, and phosphorus, all of which support energy production and overall health. Choosing lean ground turkey ensures you get the best nutritional benefits without excess fat.
Tomatoes and tomato sauce contribute both moisture and richness to the filling. Tomatoes are packed with lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that supports heart health. Cooking tomatoes enhances their nutritional benefits, making them even better for you. Combining diced tomatoes and tomato sauce in this recipe adds both texture and depth of flavor to the stuffing mixture.
Technique Tips for Ground Turkey Stuffed Peppers
When preparing the bell peppers, it’s important to keep them upright so the filling stays intact while baking. If your peppers don’t sit flat, you can slightly trim the bottoms to create a stable base. Be careful not to cut too much, as you don’t want holes where the filling could leak out.
Cooking the ground turkey mixture properly is key to achieving the best flavor. Since turkey is leaner than beef, it can dry out quickly. To keep it moist and tender, sauté it over medium heat rather than high heat, allowing the flavors to develop gradually. Adding a bit of extra tomato sauce to the filling also helps lock in moisture.
Baking time affects the texture of the peppers. If you like them slightly firm, stick to the 25-35 minute range. For softer peppers, bake them for an additional 5-10 minutes until they reach your desired tenderness. Always remove the foil toward the end of baking to allow the cheese to melt and create that golden, bubbly top layer.
Alternative Presentation Ideas
For a deconstructed version of this dish, chop the bell peppers into large pieces and sauté them with the ground turkey mixture instead of stuffing them. Serve over rice or quinoa for an easy skillet meal with the same flavors but a different texture.
Another creative option is to make mini stuffed peppers using baby bell peppers. These are perfect for appetizers or party snacks. Simply halve the small peppers, remove the seeds, and stuff them with the turkey mixture before baking. They cook much faster and offer a bite-sized version of this delicious meal.
For an elegant dinner presentation, serve the stuffed peppers on a bed of fresh greens or drizzle them with a light herb sauce. A simple yogurt or sour cream drizzle with garlic and lemon can add an extra layer of flavor while balancing out the richness of the cheese.
Freezing and Storing Ground Turkey Stuffed Peppers
If you want to prepare these stuffed peppers ahead of time, they freeze incredibly well. After baking, let them cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
For shorter storage, these peppers stay fresh in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Store them in an airtight container to maintain their moisture. Reheat in the microwave for a quick meal, but for the best texture, reheat in the oven at a low temperature.
If you plan to freeze the peppers before baking, assemble them as usual but skip the cheese topping. Wrap each pepper tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place them in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to cook, bake them straight from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 45-50 minutes, then add the cheese and bake for another 10 minutes.
Healthier Twist Ideas
For a lower-carb version, swap the rice for cauliflower rice. It provides the same texture but cuts down on carbohydrates while increasing fiber. Cauliflower also absorbs flavors well, ensuring the dish remains just as satisfying.
If you want to boost the protein content, consider mixing cooked lentils or black beans into the filling. This adds extra plant-based protein and fiber, making the dish even more filling and nutritious. Lentils, in particular, complement the turkey beautifully while providing a heartier texture.
For a dairy-free version, omit the cheese and use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy. Alternatively, you can top the stuffed peppers with avocado slices or a tahini drizzle for a creamy finish that’s completely plant-based.
Serving Suggestions for Events
For a family-style dinner, serve these stuffed peppers with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple green salad. A loaf of crusty whole-grain bread also pairs wonderfully to soak up the extra tomato sauce.
If you’re hosting a casual gathering, turn this dish into a stuffed pepper buffet. Prepare different variations of the filling—such as one with quinoa, one with extra spice, and one with black beans—so guests can choose their favorite. Offer toppings like sour cream, guacamole, or hot sauce for added customization.
For meal prep or on-the-go lunches, pack a stuffed pepper in a meal container with a side of steamed broccoli or a small portion of quinoa. These peppers reheat easily in the microwave, making them perfect for busy days when you need a quick but nutritious meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use ground chicken instead of ground turkey?
Yes, ground chicken works well as a substitute for turkey. It has a similar texture and flavor, making it an easy swap.
2. What kind of rice works best in stuffed peppers?
White rice, brown rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice can be used, depending on your dietary preferences.
3. How do I keep the stuffed peppers from falling over?
If they don’t sit upright, trim a small portion off the bottom of each pepper to create a stable base.
4. Can I make stuffed peppers without rice?
Yes, you can replace rice with lentils, black beans, or even finely chopped mushrooms for a grain-free version.
5. Should I cook the peppers before stuffing them?
No, they will soften during baking. If you prefer extra-soft peppers, you can blanch them in boiling water for 2 minutes before stuffing.
6. How can I make these stuffed peppers spicier?
Add diced jalapeños to the filling or increase the amount of red pepper flakes for more heat.
7. Can I use frozen bell peppers for this recipe?
Fresh bell peppers work best, but if using frozen, let them thaw completely and pat them dry before stuffing.
8. Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?
Yes, the filling can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble the peppers.
9. How do I prevent the filling from becoming dry?
Adding a little extra tomato sauce or broth to the filling helps retain moisture. Covering the peppers with foil while baking also prevents drying out.
10. What other cheeses can I use?
Mozzarella, cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheeses all work well. You can also try feta or goat cheese for a tangy twist.
Conclusion
Ground Turkey Stuffed Peppers are a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy, protein-rich meal without sacrificing flavor. They’re packed with lean turkey, hearty rice, juicy tomatoes, and just the right amount of spice, all encased in naturally sweet bell peppers. The recipe is flexible, allowing for endless variations based on personal preferences.
Whether you make them for a family dinner, a meal prep staple, or a party dish, these stuffed peppers are sure to impress. They freeze well, reheat beautifully, and can be customized to suit any dietary needs. Plus, they’re a fun and creative way to serve up a nutritious meal in an edible, veggie-packed bowl.
Next time you’re in the mood for a wholesome and comforting dish, try these Ground Turkey Stuffed Peppers. They’re proof that eating healthy doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor—it just means making smart, delicious choices.
Print
Ground Turkey Stuffed Peppers
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 stuffed peppers (serves 3-6) 1x
Ingredients
For the Peppers:
-
6 large bell peppers (any color, but red, yellow, and orange are sweeter)
For the Filling:
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 cup cooked rice (white, brown, or quinoa for a healthier option)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- ½ cup tomato sauce (plus extra for topping)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon cumin (optional, for added depth)
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For Garnishing (Optional):
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
- Extra shredded cheese
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Bell Peppers
-
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
-
Slice the tops off the bell peppers and carefully remove the seeds and membranes.
-
Lightly brush the inside of each pepper with olive oil and place them upright in a lightly greased baking dish.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Turkey Mixture
-
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
-
Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened.
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Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
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Add the ground turkey and cook until browned and fully cooked (about 5 minutes), breaking it apart with a spoon.
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Season with salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, paprika, and cumin.
Step 3: Add the Tomatoes and Rice
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Stir in the diced tomatoes and tomato sauce, letting everything simmer for about 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
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Mix in the cooked rice and let it warm through for another 1-2 minutes.
Step 4: Stuff the Peppers
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Spoon the turkey mixture evenly into the prepared bell peppers, pressing down slightly to pack them.
-
Pour a little extra tomato sauce over the top of each pepper for added moisture and flavor.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
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Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
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Remove the foil, sprinkle shredded cheese over each stuffed pepper, and bake uncovered for 10 more minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
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Remove from the oven and let the stuffed peppers sit for 5 minutes before serving.
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Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro and enjoy!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 7g
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 27g