Stuffed peppers offer a hearty, healthful and colorful dish suitable for any season. With a filling of lean ground turkey, brown rice and a smattering of spices, these stuffed peppers are a complete meal packed with flavors. The sweetness of the bell peppers beautifully offsets the savory stuffing, while a topping of cheddar cheese adds a touch of indulgence.
Most of the ingredients for this recipe – ground turkey, bell peppers, brown rice, cheddar cheese – are likely already in your kitchen or easy to find in any supermarket. A couple of ingredients to note: the recipe calls for 93% lean ground turkey, which is healthier and less greasy than its fattier counterparts. Also, reduced sodium chicken broth is used to keep the salt content in check, but you can substitute with regular broth and adjust the added salt. Lastly, fresh cilantro adds a bright, citrusy flavor that dried cilantro can't match.
Ingredients for Turkey Stuffed Bell Peppers
Ground turkey: This is a great source of lean protein and the main feature of our stuffing.
Garlic: Adds a robust, pungent flavor to the stuffing.
Onion: Provides a sweetness that balances out the savory elements.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro gives this dish a lively, citrusy note.
Garlic powder: Enhances the flavor of the stuffing, melding well with the ground turkey.
Cumin powder: Imparts a warm, earthy flavor to the dish.
Kosher salt: Seasons the dish, bringing out the flavors of the other ingredients.
Red bell peppers: Acts as a colorful, sweet vessel for the stuffing.
Chicken broth: Adds moisture and flavor to the stuffing.
Tomato sauce: Provides a tangy base for the stuffing.
Brown rice: A wholesome grain that adds nutritional value and heartiness to the stuffing.
Olive oil spray: Used to sauté the onions and garlic, and prevents the stuffed peppers from sticking to the pan.
Cheddar cheese: Melted on top for a slightly sharp, creamy finish.
One reader, Gerik Boyles says:
This turkey stuffed peppers recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are incredible, and it's so easy to make. The combination of turkey, rice, and spices is simply delicious. Plus, the melted cheese on top adds the perfect finishing touch. It's a must-try for anyone looking for a tasty and healthy meal!
Techniques Required for Turkey Stuffed Peppers Recipe
How to sauté the onion, garlic, and cilantro: In a medium nonstick skillet, heat olive oil spray on medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, and cilantro and sauté for about 2 minutes until they are softened and fragrant.
How to cook the ground turkey: Add the ground turkey to the skillet with the sautéed onion, garlic, and cilantro. Season the turkey with salt, garlic powder, and cumin. Cook the meat for 4 to 5 minutes until it is completely cooked through, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
How to combine the cooked rice and meat: Once the turkey is cooked, combine the cooked brown rice with the cooked turkey mixture, stirring until well combined.
How to prepare the bell peppers: Cut the sweet red bell peppers in half lengthwise and remove all the seeds from the inside, creating a cavity for the stuffing.
How to stuff the bell peppers: Spoon ⅔ cup of the meat and rice mixture into each bell pepper half, distributing it evenly among the peppers.
How to top the stuffed peppers with cheese: Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of cheddar cheese over the top of each stuffed pepper, ensuring even coverage.
How to bake the stuffed peppers: Pour the remainder of the chicken broth into the bottom of the baking dish. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake the stuffed peppers in a preheated 400°F oven for about 45 minutes, or until the peppers are tender.
How to serve the stuffed peppers: Carefully remove the foil from the baking dish and serve the stuffed peppers right away, ensuring they are hot and ready to enjoy.
How To Make Turkey Stuffed Peppers
You’ll be craving for these loaded stuffed peppers! They’re loaded with ground turkey cooked in tomato and broth, then topped with cheese.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1lb93% lean ground turkey
- 1garlic,minced
- ¼onion,minced
- 1tbspfresh cilantro,or parsley, chopped
- 1tspgarlic powder
- 1tspcumin powder
- 1tspkosher salt
- 3large sweet red bell peppers,washed
- 1cupreduced sodium chicken broth,divided
- ¼cuptomato sauce
- 1½cupsbrown rice,cooked
- olive oil spray
- 6tbspcheddar cheese,part skim shredded
Instructions
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Heat oven to 400 degrees F.
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Lightly spray olive oil spray in a medium nonstick skillet and heat on medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and cilantro and saute for about 2 minutes.
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Add ground turkey, salt, garlic powder, cumin and cook meat for 4 to 5 minutes until meat is completely cooked through.
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Add ¼ cup of tomato sauce and ½ cup of chicken broth, mix well and simmer on low for about 5 minutes.
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Combine cooked rice and meat together.
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Cut the bell peppers in half lengthwise, and remove all seeds.
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Spoon ⅔ cup meat mixture into each pepper half and place in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top each with 1 tablespoon cheese.
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Pour the remainder of the chicken broth on the bottom of the pan. Cover tightly with aluminum foil and bake for about 45 minutes.
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Carefully remove the foil and serve right away.
Nutrition
- Calories: 422.21kcal
- Fat: 17.58g
- Saturated Fat: 5.52g
- Trans Fat: 0.27g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 7.24g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.14g
- Carbohydrates: 43.01g
- Fiber: 3.28g
- Sugar: 3.28g
- Protein: 23.13g
- Cholesterol: 71.59mg
- Sodium: 611.34mg
- Calcium: 156.34mg
- Potassium: 526.89mg
- Iron: 2.59mg
- Vitamin A: 153.42µg
- Vitamin C: 78.57mg
Helpful Technique Tip for Turkey Stuffed Peppers
When preparing the bell peppers, make sure to choose ones that are large and have a flat bottom. This will help them stand upright in the baking dish and cook evenly. Additionally, when removing the seeds, use a small spoon or melon baller to scrape the inside clean, ensuring all the seeds and white membrane are removed. This will prevent any bitter taste in your final dish.
Time-Saving Tips for Making This Recipe
Prep ahead: Prepare the filling and rice mixture the night before and store them in the refrigerator. This will save time on the day of cooking.
Use a food processor: Use a food processor to quickly chop the garlic, onion, and cilantro, saving time on prep work.
Multi-task: While the peppers are baking, use that time to clean up the kitchen or prepare a simple side dish to go with the stuffed peppers.
Batch cooking: Make a double batch of the filling and freeze half for a quick and easy meal on a busy day.
Invest in kitchen tools: Invest in good quality kitchen tools such as a sharp chef's knife and a nonstick skillet to make cooking more efficient.
Uniform shape: Cut the bell peppers in a uniform size to ensure even cooking and presentation.
Substitute Ingredients For Turkey Stuffed Peppers Recipe
93% lean ground turkey - Substitute with lean ground chicken: Ground chicken is a suitable substitute for ground turkey and provides a similar texture and flavor profile.
garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used as a substitute for fresh garlic, providing a convenient alternative with a milder flavor.
onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots can be used as a substitute for onions, offering a similar flavor profile with a hint of garlic and sweetness.
fresh cilantro - Substitute with fresh parsley: Fresh parsley can be used as a substitute for cilantro, providing a mild herbaceous flavor to the dish.
garlic powder - Substitute with onion powder: Onion powder can be used as a substitute for garlic powder, adding a savory and slightly sweet flavor to the dish.
cumin powder - Substitute with chili powder: Chili powder can be used as a substitute for cumin powder, providing a warm and earthy flavor with a hint of spiciness.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used as a substitute for kosher salt, providing a similar level of salinity to the dish.
sweet red bell peppers - Substitute with yellow bell peppers: Yellow bell peppers can be used as a substitute for red bell peppers, offering a slightly different flavor and color to the dish.
reduced sodium chicken broth - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can be used as a substitute for chicken broth, providing a flavorful liquid base for the dish.
tomato sauce - Substitute with diced tomatoes: Diced tomatoes can be used as a substitute for tomato sauce, adding texture and a fresh tomato flavor to the dish.
brown rice - Substitute with quinoa: Quinoa can be used as a substitute for brown rice, providing a nutty flavor and a slightly different texture to the dish.
olive oil spray - Substitute with avocado oil spray: Avocado oil spray can be used as a substitute for olive oil spray, offering a similar light coating for cooking.
cheddar cheese - Substitute with monterey jack cheese: Monterey jack cheese can be used as a substitute for cheddar cheese, providing a mild and creamy flavor to the dish.
Best Way to Present Turkey Stuffed Peppers
Elevate the plating: When presenting the stuffed peppers, ensure that the plate is clean and free of any spills or smudges. The peppers should be placed neatly and symmetrically on the plate, with the vibrant colors of the dish shining through.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle a touch of freshly chopped cilantro or parsley over the stuffed peppers to add a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor. This simple addition will elevate the visual appeal of the dish.
Consider the plate shape and color: Opt for a white or neutral-colored plate to allow the colors of the stuffed peppers to stand out. Additionally, consider using a round or oval-shaped plate to complement the shape of the peppers.
Incorporate negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate to create a visually appealing presentation. Allow the stuffed peppers to be the focal point while ensuring that the plate is not overcrowded with additional elements.
Add a drizzle of sauce: Before serving, delicately drizzle a small amount of tomato sauce around the stuffed peppers. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds an artistic touch to the presentation.
Use edible flowers for a touch of elegance: Consider adorning the plate with a few edible flowers, such as nasturtiums or pansies, to introduce a touch of elegance and sophistication to the presentation without overpowering the dish.
Employ geometric precision: Arrange the stuffed peppers with precision, paying attention to the angles and placement on the plate. This meticulous approach adds a professional touch to the presentation.
Highlight with a side element: Accompany the stuffed peppers with a complementary side element, such as a small portion of seasoned brown rice, strategically placed to enhance the overall visual appeal of the dish.
Emphasize the cheese topping: Sprinkle the cheddar cheese topping with precision, ensuring that it is evenly distributed and adds a touch of richness to the presentation without overshadowing the main dish.
Consider the final touch: Before sending the dish out, take a moment to inspect the presentation and make any final adjustments to ensure that it meets the high standards expected in a professional culinary setting.
How To Store and Freeze Turkey Stuffed Peppers
Here are the detailed instructions for storing and freezing turkey stuffed peppers:
- Allow the cooked stuffed peppers to cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent condensation from forming inside the container, which can lead to soggy peppers.
- To store in the refrigerator:
- Place the cooled peppers in an airtight container or wrap them tightly with plastic wrap.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- To reheat, place the peppers in a baking dish and cover with foil. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
- To freeze:
- Wrap each pepper individually in plastic wrap, making sure to remove as much air as possible.
- Place the wrapped peppers in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag, label with the date, and freeze for up to 3 months.
- To reheat, remove the plastic wrap and place the frozen peppers in a baking dish. Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30-40 minutes or until heated through. You may need to add a few minutes to the cooking time if the peppers are still frozen in the center.
- If you have leftover filling, you can store it separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- When reheating stuffed peppers, be sure to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) to ensure that they are safe to eat. Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature of the filling.
How To Reheat Leftover Turkey Stuffed Peppers
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover stuffed peppers in an oven-safe dish and cover with aluminum foil. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until heated through. This method helps to retain the moisture and prevent the peppers from drying out.
If you prefer a crispier texture, you can also reheat the stuffed peppers in the oven without the foil cover. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until the tops are slightly browned and the filling is heated through.
For a quick and easy option, you can reheat the stuffed peppers in the microwave. Place them in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes or until heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the peppers to become soggy.
If you have leftover stuffed pepper filling without the bell peppers, you can reheat it in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to help moisten the filling and prevent it from drying out. Stir occasionally until heated through.
For a tasty twist, slice the leftover stuffed peppers into rings and pan-fry them in a little olive oil until crispy. This method works well if the peppers have become slightly soggy during storage in the refrigerator.
Interesting Fact About Turkey Stuffed Peppers
The turkey stuffed peppers recipe is a nutritious and delicious dish that is packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. It's a great way to incorporate vegetables and lean protein into your diet. Plus, the combination of flavors from the turkey, rice, and spices makes it a satisfying and flavorful meal. This recipe can be easily customized by adding different vegetables or using quinoa instead of rice. It's a versatile dish that can be enjoyed by the whole family. So, next time you're looking for a healthy and tasty meal idea, consider making turkey stuffed peppers!
Is This Recipe Budget-Friendly for Home Cooking?
This turkey stuffed peppers recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. Ground turkey is a budget-friendly alternative to other meats, and the addition of rice and bell peppers makes it a wholesome and affordable meal. The use of simple ingredients and minimal waste also contributes to its cost-effectiveness. As a culinary chef, I would rate this recipe an 8/10 for its balance of nutrition, flavor, and affordability. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $15-$20, making it a budget-friendly option for a satisfying and nutritious meal.
Is This Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?
The turkey stuffed peppers recipe is a relatively healthy dish with some room for improvement. Here's why:
Positives:
- Lean ground turkey is used, which is a good source of protein and lower in fat compared to regular ground beef.
- The recipe includes vegetables like bell peppers, onion, and garlic, providing essential vitamins and minerals.
- Brown rice is used, which is a whole grain and a healthier alternative to white rice.
- The recipe uses reduced-sodium chicken broth and a small amount of cheese, helping to control sodium and fat content.
Negatives:
- The recipe doesn't include a significant amount of other vegetables, which could further enhance its nutritional value.
- The use of cheese adds some saturated fat to the dish.
To make this recipe even healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Increase the variety of vegetables by adding diced carrots, zucchini, or mushrooms to the turkey mixture. This will boost the fiber content and provide a wider range of vitamins and minerals.
- Reduce the amount of cheese used or opt for a low-fat cheese alternative to decrease the saturated fat content.
- Use a low-sodium tomato sauce and chicken broth to further reduce the sodium content of the dish.
- Consider using quinoa instead of brown rice for a protein-rich and gluten-free alternative.
- Serve the stuffed peppers with a side salad or steamed vegetables to increase the overall nutrient density of the meal.
Editor's Opinion on Turkey Stuffed Peppers Recipe
This turkey stuffed peppers recipe is a delightful and nutritious dish. The combination of lean ground turkey, aromatic spices, and wholesome brown rice creates a flavorful and satisfying filling. The use of sweet red bell peppers adds a natural sweetness and vibrant color to the dish. The addition of cheddar cheese on top adds a creamy and indulgent touch. The cooking method ensures that the peppers are tender and the flavors are well-incorporated. Overall, this recipe offers a balanced and delicious meal that is sure to please the palate and provide a wholesome dining experience.
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Why trust this Turkey Stuffed Peppers Recipe:
This recipe offers a delicious and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed peppers. The use of 93% lean ground turkey ensures a healthier option without sacrificing flavor. The combination of garlic, onion, and cilantro infuses the dish with aromatic and savory notes. Additionally, the incorporation of cumin powder and garlic powder adds depth and warmth to the filling. The inclusion of brown rice provides a wholesome and hearty element, while the cheddar cheese topping offers a satisfying finish. Trust in the balance of flavors and wholesome ingredients to create a delightful and wholesome meal.
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