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Ground turkey stuffed peppers

Traditional Ground Turkey Stuffed Peppers

Traditional Ground Turkey Stuffed Peppers are a classic, wholesome dinner that’s as cozy as it is colorful. Fresh bell peppers are filled with a hearty mix of lean ground turkey, rice, tomato sauce, and melted cheese, then baked until perfectly tender and bubbling.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 6 people
Course: Main Course
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

For the Peppers
  • 6 Large bell peppers tops cut off and seeded
  • Olive oil
  • Salt and pepper
For the Stuffing
  • 1 tbsp Olive oil
  • 1 lb Ground turkey
  • 1 Small onion finely chopped
  • 2 cloves Garlic minced
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • ½ tsp Salt
  • ¼ tsp Black pepper
  • 1½ cups Cooked white or brown rice
  • 1 cup Tomato sauce plus more for topping
  • ½ cup Shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese plus more for topping
  • 1 tbsp Fresh parsley or chives for garnish optional

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Large skillet
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Mixing spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Foil for covering while baking

Method
 

  1. Preheat Oven:
    Preheat to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  2. Prep the Peppers:
    Slice the peppers tops off and remove the seeds and membranes. Lightly brush or spray with olive oil, sprinkle with salt, and place cut-side up in the baking dish. Bake for 10 minutes to slightly soften.
  3. Cook the Filling:
    In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and sauté until soft, about 3–4 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
  4. Add the Turkey:
    Add ground turkey and cook, breaking it up, until fully browned. Stir in Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  5. Finish the Filling:
    Stir in cooked rice, tomato sauce, and ½ cup shredded cheese. Mix until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  6. Stuff the Peppers:
    Fill each pepper half generously with the turkey mixture. Spoon a little extra tomato sauce on top, then sprinkle with more cheese.
  7. Bake:
    Cover loosely with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Uncover and bake an additional 5–10 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and lightly golden.
  8. Serve:
    Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot with a green salad, crusty bread, or steamed veggies.