Ground Turkey Stuffed Bell Peppers (Meal Prep Friendly)

These Ground Turkey Stuffed Bell Peppers are a colorful and satisfying dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights and meal prep. Sweet bell peppers are filled with a savory mixture of lean ground turkey, rice, herbs, and tomato sauce, then baked until tender and flavorful. They’re naturally gluten-free, protein-packed, and make for a beautiful main course that’s just as good for lunch the next day.

Why I Love This Recipe

This dish brings together the comforting flavors of a hearty casserole with the presentation of a restaurant-worthy plate. I first started making these when I wanted a freezer-friendly meal that still looked and tasted fresh after reheating. Much like my Ground Turkey Enchilada Casserole, it’s a recipe that delivers on flavor, nutrition, and make-ahead convenience.

Colorful and nutritious

Bell peppers aren’t just pretty — they’re loaded with vitamin C, antioxidants, and natural sweetness that balance the savory turkey filling.

Meal prep dream

Stuffed peppers hold up beautifully in the fridge and freezer, making them ideal for portioning out ahead of time—just like my 30-Minute Ground Turkey Taco Bowls.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Bell peppers – Choose a mix of red, yellow, and green for visual appeal.
• Ground turkey – Lean protein base for the filling.
• Olive oil – For sautéing the turkey and vegetables.
• Onion & garlic – Build flavor from the start.
• Cooked rice – White, brown, or even quinoa works here.
• Tomato sauce – Binds the filling and keeps it moist.
• Dried Italian herbs – Adds a savory, aromatic note.
• Salt & pepper – Season to taste.
• Shredded cheese – Optional, for topping.
• Fresh parsley – For garnish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the peppers

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off 6 bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them upright in a baking dish.

2. Cook the turkey filling

In a skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 diced onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes. Add 1 lb ground turkey and cook for 6–7 minutes until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Stir in 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 tsp dried Italian herbs, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp pepper.

3. Add rice and sauce

Stir in 2 cups cooked rice and 1 cup tomato sauce. Mix well until the filling is heated through. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

4. Stuff the peppers

Spoon the filling into each bell pepper, packing it down gently. If using cheese, sprinkle on top.

5. Bake

Pour about 1/4 cup water into the bottom of the baking dish (this helps steam the peppers). Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 10 minutes, until peppers are tender and cheese (if added) is melted and golden.

6. Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot. They pair wonderfully with a side salad or roasted vegetables.

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Pro Tips for Perfect Stuffed Peppers

• Par-cook the peppers for 5 minutes before stuffing for a softer texture.
• Use leftover rice or quinoa to save time.
• Double the recipe and freeze half for later.
• Try ground chicken or beef for variation.

Variations

Low-carb option

Replace the rice with riced cauliflower for fewer carbs and more veggies—similar to the veggie swap I use in my Creamy Ground Turkey Zoodle Skillet.

Mexican-style

Swap Italian herbs for chili powder, cumin, and paprika, then top with shredded cheddar and fresh cilantro.

Cheesy bake

Add mozzarella or provolone inside the filling for extra gooeyness.

Serving Suggestions

These peppers are a meal on their own but also go well with garlic bread, a Greek salad, or roasted sweet potatoes for a balanced dinner.

Nutrition Snapshot

Nutrient	Per Serving
Calories	320
Protein	28g
Carbohydrates	28g
Fiber	4g
Fat	11g

FAQ – Ground Turkey Stuffed Bell Peppers

Conclusion

These Ground Turkey Stuffed Bell Peppers are the perfect combination of flavor, nutrition, and convenience. Whether you’re making them for dinner tonight or prepping meals for the week, they’re a healthy, family-friendly option that always satisfies.