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Stuffed bell peppers are a nourishing and colorful dish that brings together protein, vegetables, and grains in a single, delightful package. This recipe features ground turkey and a medley of vibrant veggies, making it not only a healthy choice but also highly customizable to suit your family's tastes. The appeal of bell peppers lies in their ability to serve as a canvas for a variety of flavors and nutrients, making them an excellent option for families seeking a delicious and balanced meal. Whether you're looking for a weeknight dinner or a meal-prep option, these stuffed peppers are sure to please everyone at the table.

Turkey and Veggie Stuffed Bell Peppers

Wholesome Turkey and Veggie Stuffed Bell Peppers are a colorful and nutritious meal that's perfect for families! This easy recipe combines ground turkey, vibrant veggies, and quinoa or rice, all nestled in sweet bell peppers. It's customizable to suit different tastes, making it a great weeknight dinner or meal prep option. With a cheesy topping and rich flavors from spices, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table. Enjoy a balanced, delicious meal that everyone will love!

Ingredients
  

4 large bell peppers (choose vibrant colors like red, yellow, or green)

1 pound ground turkey

1 cup cooked quinoa (or substitute with rice if desired)

1 small onion, finely diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup zucchini, diced into small pieces

1 cup diced tomatoes (use canned diced tomatoes or fresh ones)

1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen; if using frozen, no need to thaw)

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt and black pepper to taste

1 cup shredded cheese (choose from cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend for extra flavor)

1 tablespoon olive oil (plus extra for brushing)

Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped, for garnish

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the stuffed peppers.

    Prepare the Bell Peppers: Carefully slice the tops off each bell pepper and remove the seeds and membranes from inside. Lightly brush the exterior of each pepper with olive oil and position them upright in a baking dish, ensuring they fit snugly.

      Cook the Filling: In a large skillet over medium heat, add a tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing for about 2-3 minutes until they become fragrant and translucent. Next, add the ground turkey to the skillet and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until it’s thoroughly browned.

        Introduce Vegetables: Add the diced zucchini, corn, and diced tomatoes to the skillet. Season with dried oregano, cumin, smoked paprika, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Sauté for an additional 5-6 minutes until the vegetables are soft and tender.

          Mix the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked turkey-vegetable mixture with the cooked quinoa (or rice). Add half of the shredded cheese and mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.

            Stuff the Peppers: Using a spoon, carefully fill each bell pepper with the turkey and veggie mixture, packing it down gently to ensure they are filled generously.

              Top with Cheese: Evenly distribute the remaining shredded cheese over the top of each stuffed pepper for a delicious cheesy topping.

                Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to keep the moisture in and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. After this time, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese has melted and turned golden.

                  Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and allow the stuffed peppers to cool for a few minutes. Before serving, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro for a burst of freshness.

                    - Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 mins | 55 mins total | Serves 4

                      - Presentation Tips: Place the stuffed peppers on a large serving platter and drizzle with a bit of olive oil or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving for added flavor and visual appeal.