Stuffed Bell Peppers with Turkey and Brown Rice

Stuffed Bell Peppers with Turkey and Brown Rice are a delicious and nutritious meal perfect for a balanced weeknight dinner. Packed with lean ground turkey, hearty brown rice, and fresh vegetables, this dish is both comforting and satisfying. The melted cheese topping adds the perfect finishing touch to these vibrant and flavorful stuffed peppers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Combines lean protein, whole grains, and vegetables for a well-rounded meal
• Bursting with flavor from herbs, spices, and marinara sauce
• Family-friendly and customizable
• Great for meal prep and leftovers
• Easy to adapt to various dietary needs

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 4 large bell peppers, halved and seeds removed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound ground turkey
• 1/2 cup diced onion
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 1/2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• Salt, to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 1/2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup chopped fresh spinach
• 1 cup cooked brown rice
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• Chopped fresh parsley or basil, for garnish

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add ground turkey and cook until browned.
3. Add diced onion and garlic; sauté until softened.
4. Stir in Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
5. Mix in marinara sauce and spinach; cook until spinach is wilted.
6. Remove from heat and stir in cooked brown rice, Parmesan cheese, and basil.
7. Arrange bell pepper halves in a baking dish. Fill each with the turkey mixture.
8. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top.
9. Pour 1/4 cup water into the bottom of the dish. Cover with foil.
10. Bake for 30–35 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10 minutes until cheese is melted and golden.
11. Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6 stuffed pepper halves
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

Variations

• Swap ground turkey with chicken, beef, or plant-based meat
• Use quinoa or couscous instead of brown rice
• Add chopped mushrooms or zucchini for extra veggies
• Use dairy-free cheese for a lactose-free version
• Spice it up with chopped jalapeños or hot sauce

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days
• Freezing: Freeze cooked and cooled peppers in individual portions for up to 3 months
• Reheating:
  • In the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes
  • In the microwave for 2–3 minutes on high
  • In an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes

FAQs

How can I make this recipe spicier?

Add extra red pepper flakes or include chopped jalapeños in the filling.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the peppers in advance and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking.

Do I need to cook the rice before adding it to the filling?

Yes, the rice should be cooked ahead of time to ensure the filling is properly textured and fully cooked.

Can I use a different type of rice?

Absolutely, white rice, wild rice, or even cauliflower rice can be used depending on your preference.

What kind of bell peppers work best?

Red, yellow, and orange peppers are sweeter and ideal, but green peppers work well too.

Can I make this recipe without cheese?

Yes, simply omit the cheese or use a plant-based cheese alternative.

How do I keep the peppers from tipping over?

Cut a thin slice off the bottom of each pepper to create a flat base.

Can I freeze stuffed bell peppers?

Yes, they freeze well. Wrap individually and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

What side dishes pair well with this recipe?

Serve with a green salad, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just scale the ingredients accordingly and use a larger or second baking dish.

Conclusion

Stuffed Bell Peppers with Turkey and Brown Rice offer a balanced and satisfying meal that is easy to prepare and full of flavor. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is a practical and delicious choice. Its versatility and wholesome ingredients make it a go-to option for anyone seeking a nutritious homemade dish.

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