Save Colorful bell peppers filled with savory ground turkey, fluffy rice, and vegetables, baked to perfection for a hearty and wholesome dinner.
The first time I made these stuffed peppers, my kids got excited by the cheerful colors. They make such a comforting meal, and leftovers reheat beautifully for lunch the next day.
Ingredients
- Large bell peppers: 4, red, yellow, or green, tops cut off, seeds and membranes removed
- Olive oil: 1 tablespoon
- Ground turkey: 1 pound (450 g)
- Yellow onion: 1 small, finely diced
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Carrot: 1 medium, grated
- Zucchini: 1 small, diced
- Cooked rice: 1 cup (180 g), white or brown
- Diced tomatoes: 1 can (14 oz/400 g), drained
- Dried oregano: 1 teaspoon
- Dried basil: 1 teaspoon
- Smoked paprika: 1/2 teaspoon
- Salt and black pepper: to taste
- Shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese: 1 cup (100 g), divided
- Chopped fresh parsley: 2 tablespoons, optional, for garnish
Instructions
- Prep Peppers:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish large enough for peppers to stand upright. Blanch hollowed peppers in boiling salted water for 3 minutes, then drain and set aside.
- Make Filling:
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium. Sauté onion and garlic for 2 minutes until fragrant. Add ground turkey, cooking until no longer pink, about 5 minutes. Add grated carrot and diced zucchini and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened.
- Add Seasonings:
- Stir in cooked rice, drained tomatoes, oregano, basil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2 minutes to combine flavors. Remove from heat and stir in half the shredded cheese.
- Stuff Peppers:
- Spoon the filling into the prepared peppers. Place upright in the baking dish and sprinkle remaining cheese over tops.
- Bake:
- Cover loosely with foil and bake 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake 10 minutes more, until cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Finish & Serve:
- Let cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley if you like, and serve warm.
Save My mom always made stuffed peppers when we were kids, and now my son wants to help spoon the filling in himself. It is a fun way to cook together.
Variations
Swap in ground chicken or beef instead of turkey, or add black beans and corn for extra nutrition. For a spicy twist, use pepper jack cheese or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these stuffed peppers with a crisp green salad or your favorite crusty gluten-free bread for a perfectly balanced meal.
Nutrition
Each serving contains about 340 calories, 12 g fat, 32 g carbohydrates, and 27 g protein for a satisfying, nourishing dinner.
Save Stuffed peppers are a classic comfort food perfect for family dinners. Enjoy a colorful, satisfying plate tonight!
Recipe Guide
- → Can I substitute the ground turkey with other meats?
Yes, ground beef or chicken can be used as alternatives depending on your preference.
- → How do I prepare the peppers before filling?
Remove the tops, seeds, and membranes, then blanch the peppers in boiling water for 3 minutes to soften slightly.
- → What cheese works best as a topping?
Mozzarella or cheddar cheese are great options for melting and adding a creamy texture on top.
- → Can I add extra vegetables to the filling?
Yes, ingredients like spinach, corn, or black beans can enhance the nutritional value and flavor.
- → What spices enhance the filling’s flavor?
Oregano, basil, and smoked paprika add depth and a subtle smoky touch to the dish.
- → Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, if all ingredients, especially rice and cheese, are gluten-free certified, this meal is safe for gluten sensitivities.