Stuffed Bell Peppers with Ground Turkey and Brown Rice

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Nutrient-Rich: Packed with lean turkey for protein and brown rice for fiber, this dish provides a nutritious and satisfying meal.

• Flavorful: The savory ground turkey combined with spices and marinara sauce creates a flavorful filling that complements the tender bell peppers.

• Customizable: You can adjust the seasonings or swap out ingredients to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.

• Meal Prep Friendly: These stuffed peppers store well in the fridge, making them a great option for meal prepping or making ahead of time.

• Kid-Friendly: The mild, cheesy flavor is likely to appeal to children and adults alike, making it a versatile family dish.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 4 large bell peppers (any color)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 pound ground turkey

• ½ medium yellow onion, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1½ teaspoons Italian seasoning

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper

• 1 cup cooked brown rice

• 1 cup marinara sauce

• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Directions

1. Prepare the Peppers: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Place the peppers cut-side up in a baking dish.

2. Cook the Filling: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until softened. Add the ground turkey, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned. Stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

3. Combine with Rice: Add the cooked brown rice and marinara sauce to the turkey mixture, stirring to combine.

4. Stuff the Peppers: Spoon the turkey and rice mixture into each bell pepper, pressing down gently to pack the filling.

5. Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top of each stuffed pepper, and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 40 minutes

• Total Time: 55 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the filling for added heat.

• Cheese Options: Use cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheeses for different flavor profiles.

• Vegetarian Version: Replace ground turkey with a plant-based meat substitute or additional vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini.

• Grain Alternatives: Substitute brown rice with quinoa, couscous, or cauliflower rice for a different texture.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover stuffed peppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, microwave on high for 2-3 minutes.

FAQs

Can I freeze stuffed bell peppers?

Yes, you can freeze the stuffed peppers before baking. Wrap each pepper tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 45-50 minutes.

Can I use white rice instead of brown rice?

Yes, white rice can be used as a substitute for brown rice. However, brown rice adds more fiber and a nuttier flavor.

How do I prevent the peppers from becoming too soft?

Blanch the peppers in boiling water for 2-3 minutes before stuffing them. This helps them retain their shape and prevents overcooking during baking.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the stuffed peppers up to the point of baking, cover them, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake as directed when ready to serve.

What can I serve with stuffed bell peppers?

Stuffed peppers pair well with a side salad, roasted vegetables, or a slice of crusty bread.

Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?

Yes, ground chicken is a suitable substitute for ground turkey in this recipe.

Are stuffed bell peppers gluten-free?

Yes, as long as the marinara sauce used is gluten-free, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.

Can I add beans to the filling?

Yes, adding black beans or kidney beans can enhance the protein content and add texture to the filling.

How do I make stuffed peppers spicier?

Incorporate diced jalapeños, chili powder, or hot sauce into the filling to increase the spice level.

Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?

Yes, after preparing the filling, stuff the peppers and place them in a slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours until the peppers are tender.

Conclusion

Stuffed bell peppers with ground turkey and brown rice are a hearty and nutritious meal that is simple to prepare and customizable to suit your tastes. This dish is a great option for a healthy dinner that can easily be made ahead for meal prep. Whether you’re making it for a family meal or a special occasion, these stuffed peppers are sure to be a hit.