Ground Turkey Taco Stuffed Peppers

Name: Ground Turkey Taco 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 (or quinoa); 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 packet taco seasoning; 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained; 1 cup corn; 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend); Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Homestyle Happiness

I love making these Ground Turkey Taco Stuffed Peppers because they’re the perfect mix of flavor and nutrition. Each bite offers a burst of zesty taco seasoning paired with tender, juicy turkey, all encased in a sweet bell pepper. Preparing this meal is easy and allows me to customize the fillings based on what I have on hand. Plus, they’re great for meal prep and fit seamlessly into my busy week, making dinner not only delicious but also convenient.

Created by

Felicity Grant

Last updated on 2026-02-24T05:09:36.607Z

When I first made these Ground Turkey Taco Stuffed Peppers, I was amazed at how well the flavors melded together. The combination of spices not only highlighted the turkey but also complemented the natural sweetness of the peppers. I recommend using a top-quality taco seasoning or even making your own for an extra punch!

One tip I’ve learned is to parboil the peppers for a few minutes before stuffing them. This simple step softens them just enough to ensure they’re tender and delicious once baked. The result is a perfect texture that balances the filling wonderfully!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Flavor-packed filling with classic taco spices
Healthy meal option that's filling and satisfying
Visually appealing dish that impresses at dinner

The Importance of Choosing the Right Peppers

When selecting bell peppers for stuffing, size and color can greatly influence your dish's outcome. I recommend choosing large, firm peppers that will stand upright when placed in the baking dish. Green peppers provide a slightly more bitter flavor, while red, yellow, or orange peppers offer sweetness that complements the spicy filling beautifully. If you prefer a milder taste, go for the red or yellow varieties, as they tend to balance out the seasoning in the ground turkey.

To further enhance the texture, consider parboiling the peppers for about 5 minutes before stuffing. This not only softens them but also helps them retain a vibrant color. Keep an eye on them; parboiling too long can lead to mushy peppers that won't hold up during baking. Trust me, this extra step can elevate your dish significantly by creating a lovely contrast between the tender filling and the slightly crisp pepper skin.

Perfecting the Filling

The filling is the heart of these stuffed peppers, and the balance of flavors is key. Ground turkey is a great lean protein option, but to enhance its flavor, I suggest browning it well—aim for a nice golden color which indicates caramelization. This step adds depth to your filling, making it rich and satisfying. Take a moment to let the turkey cook fully before adding any other ingredients to ensure it’s not just cooked through but also flavorful.

For variations, you might swap out the black beans for kidney beans or add some diced tomatoes for extra moisture. Adding a teaspoon of lime juice right before stuffing elevates the freshness and brightens up the overall flavor profile. The combination of spices in taco seasoning harmonizes beautifully with the turkey, making it important to taste and adjust the seasonings before you stuff the peppers. Don't be afraid to experiment with heat levels by adding a pinch of cayenne or diced jalapeños if you're feeling adventurous.

Ingredients

For the Stuffed Peppers

4 large bell peppers
1 pound ground turkey
1 cup cooked rice (or quinoa)
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 packet taco seasoning
1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup corn
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Peppers

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. Optionally, you can parboil the peppers in boiling water for 5 minutes for extra tenderness.

Cook the Filling

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the diced onion and garlic until softened. Add the ground turkey and cook until browned. Stir in the taco seasoning, cooked rice, black beans, corn, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.

Stuff the Peppers

Spoon the turkey mixture into each prepared bell pepper. Place the filled peppers in a baking dish and top with shredded cheese.

Bake

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serve

Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot. Enjoy your delicious stuffed peppers!

Pro Tips

For an added kick, consider adding jalapeños to the filling or using spicy taco seasoning. You can also customize the filling with your favorite protein or vegetables to suit your taste.

Storage and Meal Prep Tips

These Ground Turkey Taco Stuffed Peppers are perfect for meal prep. If you're planning to make them in advance, consider partially baking them for 15 minutes before storing them in the refrigerator. When ready to eat, cover with foil and bake at 375°F until heated through, about 20 minutes. This method not only saves time but also allows the flavors to marry beautifully over time.

For freezing, stuff the peppers, then wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight, then bake them according to the standard instructions. This makes a friendlier option for busy nights when you want a wholesome meal without much fuss!

Serving Suggestions

These stuffed peppers make a striking presentation on a platter, but there are fun ways to serve them that add flair. Consider placing a scoop of fresh guacamole or a dollop of sour cream on top before serving. Adding crushed tortilla chips enhances the crunch and provides a satisfying contrast to the soft peppers.

For a complete meal, pair these peppers with a refreshing side salad or some cilantro lime rice. The brightness of the salad complements the rich, savory filling beautifully, while the rice adds a hearty element. If you're hosting a gathering, serve them as an appetizer size by cutting the peppers in half and filling them, allowing guests to enjoy these tasty bites easily.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the stuffed peppers in advance and refrigerate them. Just bake them when you're ready to eat.

→ What can I use instead of ground turkey?

You can substitute ground beef, chicken, or a plant-based protein for a healthier alternative.

→ How long do leftovers last?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

→ Can I freeze stuffed peppers?

Absolutely! Freeze them before baking for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.