Looking for a delicious and nutritious meal that won't break the bank or your diet? Say hello to Healthy Turkey Stuffed Peppers! Bursting with flavor and packed with wholesome ingredients, this recipe is the perfect way to elevate your weeknight dinners. In just 45 minutes, you can create a colorful and satisfying dish that not only pleases the palate but also fuels your body with lean protein and veggies. Whether you're a busy parent or a health-conscious foodie, these stuffed peppers are sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Ready to dive into this mouthwatering recipe? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 bell peppers
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a baking dish by lightly greasing it with cooking spray or olive oil.
- Wash the bell peppers thoroughly. Cut the tops off and remove the seeds and membranes, creating hollow pepper cups suitable for stuffing.
- In a large skillet, brown the ground turkey over medium-high heat, breaking it into small crumbles. Cook until the meat is no longer pink and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Add cooked quinoa to the skillet with the ground turkey. Stir in diced tomatoes, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix all ingredients thoroughly and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes.
- Place the prepared bell peppers upright in the baking dish. Carefully fill each pepper with the turkey and quinoa mixture, pressing gently to ensure even distribution.
- If using cheese, sprinkle shredded cheese on top of each stuffed pepper.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until peppers are tender and filling is heated through.
- Remove foil during the last 5 minutes of baking to allow cheese to melt and slightly brown if desired.
- Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro if desired.
Tips
- Choose the Right Peppers: Opt for vibrant bell peppers that are firm and free from blemishes. Red, yellow, and orange peppers tend to be sweeter than green ones, adding a delightful flavor to your dish.
- Cook Quinoa in Advance: To save time, prepare your quinoa ahead of time. You can even make a larger batch and use leftovers in salads or bowls throughout the week.
- Season Generously: Don’t be shy with the spices! Adjust the seasoning to your taste, and consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for a kick or some Italian herbs for added depth.
- Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to get creative! Add black beans, corn, or even chopped spinach to the turkey mixture for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Cheese Lovers Unite: If you’re a cheese enthusiast, try using different types of cheese such as feta, mozzarella, or pepper jack for varied flavor profiles.
- Make it Ahead: These stuffed peppers can be assembled a day in advance. Just cover them and store in the fridge until you're ready to bake, making meal prep a breeze.
- Garnish for Presentation: A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the flavor of your dish.
- Serve with a Side: Pair your stuffed peppers with a simple green salad or a side of roasted vegetables to create a well-rounded meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 360kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: 19g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 85mg
