Stuffed Bell Peppers
Bell peppers baked with a filling of lean ground turkey, brown rice, tomato, and herbs.
For 2 servings
3 steps. 40 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- b.Sauté onion for 4 minutes, then add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
- c.Add ground turkey and cook for 6 minutes, breaking it up with a spoon.
- d.Stir in tomato, cooked brown rice, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper for 2 minutes.
TIPEnsure the turkey is fully browned and the liquid from the tomatoes has slightly reduced for a concentrated flavor. - 2
Step 2
- a.Spoon the turkey mixture into the hollowed bell peppers.
- b.Place peppers upright in a baking dish and pour 0.5 cup water into the bottom.
- c.Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake at 375°F for 35 minutes.
TIPThe water in the dish creates steam, which helps the peppers soften without burning. - 3
Step 3
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For softer peppers, blanch them in boiling water for 3-4 minutes before stuffing and baking.
- 2Don't pack the filling too tightly; the rice needs a little room to expand.
- 3For a crispy topping, mix 1/4 cup of panko breadcrumbs with the cheese before sprinkling on top.
- 4Meal Prep Champion: Assemble the peppers completely, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to add 5-10 minutes to the covered baking time.
- 5Ensure the baking dish is snug to help the peppers stand upright during baking.
Adapt it for your goals.
Vegetarian
Replace ground beef with 1.5 cups of cooked lentils, black beans, or a plant-based ground meat substitute. Add 1 cup of chopped mushrooms for extra umami.
Grain Free/Low CarbGrain-Free/Low-Carb
Substitute the rice with cauliflower rice or quinoa. If using cauliflower rice, add it raw to the filling mixture.
Spicy KickSpicy Kick
Add 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a finely chopped jalapeño along with the garlic for some heat.
Different MeatsDifferent Meats
Swap the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or Italian sausage for a different flavor profile.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Vitamin C
Bell peppers, especially red ones, are packed with Vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that supports immune function and skin health.
Balanced Macronutrients
This dish offers a good balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fats, providing sustained energy and promoting satiety, which can help with weight management.
High in Lycopene
The cooked tomatoes in the filling are an excellent source of lycopene, an antioxidant linked to a reduced risk of certain chronic diseases.
Frequently asked questions
A single stuffed pepper in this recipe contains approximately 550-600 calories, depending on the size of the pepper and the fat content of the beef. It's a substantial, well-rounded meal.