Ground Turkey And Rice Stuffed Peppers

Name: Ground Turkey And Rice Stuffed Peppers
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 large bell peppers; 1 pound ground turkey; 1 cup cooked rice; 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 cup corn kernels, fresh or frozen; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1/2 teaspoon chili powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup shredded cheese (optional); Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Warm Table Classics

I absolutely love making Ground Turkey and Rice Stuffed Peppers as a comforting and nutritious meal. These vibrant peppers not only deliver a punch of color to the plate, but they are also packed with protein and wholesome grains. I find that the blend of savory turkey, hearty rice, and a mix of spices creates a satisfying flavor profile that my family adores. Plus, they're easy to make ahead of time, which makes dinner prep a breeze on busy weeknights.

Created by

Jocelyn Parker

Last updated on 2026-02-23T20:21:36.207Z

My journey with stuffed peppers has been a flavorful adventure! The first time I made them, I experimented with different fillings until I settled on a delightful mix of ground turkey and rice. The combination is both nutritious and filling, making it a perfect weeknight meal. I've learned that browning the turkey before stuffing the peppers enhances the flavors significantly.

Another tip I've discovered is to let the stuffed peppers rest for a few minutes after baking. This not only helps the flavors meld, but it also makes serving easier. Each bite bursts with the savory goodness I’ve come to love, and they look impressive too!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
A healthy twist on classic comfort food
Customizable with your favorite spices and veggies
Great for meal prep and leftovers

The Perfect Pepper Choice

Selecting the right peppers is crucial for stuffed pepper success. Look for large, firm bell peppers that are free from blemishes. Varieties such as green, red, yellow, or orange all work wonderfully, adding unique flavors and colors to your dish. Make sure they are similar in size to ensure even cooking and that they can stand upright in the baking dish.

To enhance the flavor profile, consider roasting the peppers briefly before stuffing. This can be done by placing them under the broiler for 5-7 minutes until they start to blister. This adds a nice smoky flavor and helps them to soften, making it easier to enjoy the filling. Just watch closely to avoid burning!

Making the Filling Stand Out

The filling is where you can really get creative! Using cooked rice as a base provides a neutral platform that absorbs the flavors of the spices and ingredients. Long-grain rice is ideal for its texture, but you could also try quinoa for a gluten-free twist or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly if using cauliflower rice, as it cooks much quicker.

Adding lime juice and zest can brighten the filling’s flavor dramatically. Just a teaspoon of lime juice mixed in before stuffing will make the ingredients taste fresher and more vibrant. If you prefer a spicy kick, consider including diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce in the filling mixture for an added depth of flavor.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to prepare your delicious stuffed peppers:

Ingredients

4 large bell peppers
1 pound ground turkey
1 cup cooked rice
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup corn kernels, fresh or frozen
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Make sure to have everything chopped and ready to go for a seamless cooking experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create delicious Ground Turkey and Rice Stuffed Peppers:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure even cooking for the peppers.

Prepare the Peppers

Slice the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Set aside.

Cook the Turkey

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground turkey until it’s browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.

Mix the Filling

In a large bowl, combine the cooked turkey, rice, black beans, corn, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended.

Stuff the Peppers

Spoon the turkey and rice mixture into each bell pepper, packing it in tightly. Place them upright in a baking dish.

Add Cheese

If desired, sprinkle shredded cheese on top of each stuffed pepper.

Bake

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes to allow the cheese to melt and brown slightly.

Serve

Let the stuffed peppers rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro.

Enjoy your flavorful and healthy meal!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize the filling with your favorite vegetables or add spices to suit your taste preferences.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Stuffed peppers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, making them ideal for meal prep. If you would like to freeze them, assemble the stuffed peppers without baking. Wrap each pepper tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, simply bake from frozen, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.

Reheating is a breeze, either in the oven or microwave. If using the oven, cover the peppers with foil to prevent drying out and heat at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until warmed through. In the microwave, place the stuffed pepper on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 2-3 minutes on high, checking to make sure it’s heated evenly.

Serving Suggestions

These stuffed peppers are delightful on their own, but you can elevate the meal with a fresh salad or a side of guacamole for added creaminess. A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette can contrast nicely against the richness of the stuffing. Alternatively, serve them over a bed of quinoa for a more hearty meal.

For an elegant presentation, slice each stuffed pepper in half before serving, fanning them out on the plate. Drizzle with a little sour cream or a yogurt-based sauce for a zesty complement, and sprinkle with additional cilantro for that fresh touch. Adding a squeeze of fresh lime juice just before serving can enhance all the flavors and add a refreshing finish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of meat?

Absolutely! You can use ground beef, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftover stuffed peppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze stuffed peppers?

Yes! You can freeze them before or after baking. Just make sure to wrap them tightly.

→ What can I serve with stuffed peppers?

Stuffed peppers pair well with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal.