Ground Turkey And Rice Stuffed Peppers

Name: Ground Turkey And Rice Stuffed Peppers
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 large bell peppers (any color); 1 lb ground turkey; 1 cup cooked rice; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz), drained; 1 tsp chili powder; 1 tsp cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded cheese (optional); Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Homestyle Happiness

I absolutely love making Ground Turkey And Rice Stuffed Peppers because they’re a hearty meal that’s healthy and satisfying. The vibrant colors of the peppers combined with the savory stuffing not only make for a gorgeous presentation, but they also enable me to pack in a variety of flavors in each bite. This dish is perfect for meal prep or a cozy family dinner, and it always leaves my kitchen smelling amazing. Plus, it's a simple recipe that lets me customize the spices and ingredients to match my family's preferences.

Created by

Felicity Grant

Last updated on 2026-02-24T05:45:36.264Z

When I first tried making Ground Turkey And Rice Stuffed Peppers, I was amazed at how easy and enjoyable the process was. I sautéed the turkey with onions and garlic, which created a rich base for the stuffing. I added spices and cooked rice, and once the vibrant peppers were filled, I baked them to perfection. The flavors melded beautifully, and the result was delicious!

One tip I have for anyone trying this recipe is to allow the stuffed peppers to rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps the flavors settle and makes for an even more delightful bite. Plus, serving it with a sprinkle of fresh parsley takes the dish to another level!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Hearty stuffing that combines savory ground turkey with fluffy rice
Colorful and appealing presentation that brightens up any meal
Versatile dish that can be customized to your taste with different spices or veggies

Preparing the Peppers

Choosing the right bell peppers is key to this dish. Opt for large, firm bell peppers that will hold their shape while baking. I find that red, yellow, or orange peppers offer a sweeter flavor than green ones, enhancing the overall taste of the dish. After cutting the tops off, be sure to clean out any remaining seeds and membranes, as they can add bitterness to the filling.

When arranging the peppers in a baking dish, make sure they stand upright to keep the stuffing from spilling out. If you're worried about them tipping over, you can slice a small amount off the bottom to create a flat base. This will help them bake evenly and look well-presented on the table.

The Perfect Filling

The combination of ground turkey and rice makes for a filling that's both hearty and nutritious. Ground turkey is a leaner alternative to beef, making this dish a healthier option without sacrificing flavor. To ensure the turkey remains moist, cook it over medium heat, stirring frequently until it's fully browned and not dry, about 8-10 minutes is usually ideal.

Incorporating diced tomatoes adds moisture and acidity to the filling, balancing the richness of the turkey. Keep an eye on the skillet after adding the tomatoes; aim for a mixture that is heated through and slightly thickened before you stuff the peppers. This enhances the overall texture and flavor, ensuring each bite is a savory delight.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your stuffed peppers:

Ingredients

4 large bell peppers (any color)
1 lb ground turkey
1 cup cooked rice
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz), drained
1 tsp chili powder
1 tsp cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Make sure to have all the ingredients prepped and ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create deliciously stuffed peppers:

Prepare the Peppers

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. Place them upright in a baking dish.

Make the Filling

In a large skillet, heat a little oil over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until soft. Add the ground turkey, cooking until browned. Stir in the cooked rice, diced tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well.

Stuff the Peppers

Spoon the turkey and rice mixture into each pepper, packing it down gently. If desired, top with shredded cheese.

Bake

Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly.

Once done, let the stuffed peppers cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley for an extra touch!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize the filling by adding your favorite vegetables or spices for extra flavor.

Freezing and Storing

If you have leftovers or want to prepare this dish ahead of time, stuffed peppers freeze beautifully. After baking, allow them to cool completely, then wrap each pepper tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a sealed freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

For meal prep, consider preparing the filling and stuffing the peppers but not baking them right away. You can store unbaked stuffed peppers in the refrigerator for up to two days. Cover them tightly with foil or plastic wrap to prevent drying out. This option makes a quick and satisfying weeknight meal with minimal effort.

Customizing Your Dish

Feel free to get creative with the spices and vegetables in this recipe! Swap ground turkey for chicken, beef, or even a meat substitute for a vegetarian option. Adding chopped spinach, zucchini, or beans to the filling can boost nutritional value and add different textures. Experiment with spices like smoked paprika or Italian seasoning to tailor it to your family's preference.

To elevate the flavors in your stuffing, consider adding a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce or hot sauce for a kick. Fresh herbs, like cilantro or basil, can also add freshness to the dish when mixed in or sprinkled on top before serving. Don't be afraid to taste the filling before stuffing the peppers to adjust the seasoning to your liking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, you can substitute brown rice, but it may require a longer cooking time.

→ What can I serve with the stuffed peppers?

They pair well with a fresh salad or crusty bread to soak up any juices.

→ Can I freeze the stuffed peppers?

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

→ Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute the ground turkey with cooked lentils or a meat substitute.