Are you looking for a delicious yet healthy dinner option that will tantalize your taste buds and keep your waistline in check? Look no further than these scrumptious Healthy Ground Turkey Stuffed Peppers! Bursting with flavor and packed with nutritious ingredients, this recipe is not only a feast for the eyes but also a wholesome meal for the whole family. With vibrant bell peppers cradling a savory blend of ground turkey, quinoa, and spices, you'll be amazed at how easy it is to prepare a dish that feels gourmet yet is ready in just 45 minutes. Dive into this delightful recipe and discover a new favorite that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Ingredients
- 4 bell peppers
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a baking dish by lightly greasing it with cooking spray or olive oil.
- Wash the bell peppers thoroughly. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove the seeds and membranes, creating hollow vessels for stuffing.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground turkey, breaking it into small crumbles. Cook until the meat is no longer pink and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Add cooked quinoa, diced tomatoes, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Mix thoroughly and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes to combine flavors.
- Arrange the prepared bell peppers standing upright in the baking dish. Carefully spoon the turkey and quinoa mixture into each pepper, filling them completely.
- If using cheese, sprinkle shredded cheese on top of each stuffed pepper for added flavor and richness.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until peppers are tender and filling is heated through.
- Remove foil during the last 5 minutes of baking to allow cheese to melt and slightly brown if desired.
- Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives if desired.
Tips
- Choose Colorful Peppers: For a visually appealing dish, use a mix of red, yellow, and green bell peppers. Each color offers a slightly different flavor and adds a pop of color to your plate.
- Pre-Cook Quinoa: To save time, prepare your quinoa in advance. You can even make a larger batch and use leftovers in salads or bowls throughout the week!
- Season Generously: Don't be shy with the seasonings! Adjust the garlic and onion powder to your taste, and consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
- Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to customize your stuffing! Add black beans, corn, or even some chopped spinach for extra nutrients and flavor.
- Cheese Lovers Unite: If you’re a cheese enthusiast, try different types of cheese such as feta, mozzarella, or pepper jack for a unique twist on your stuffed peppers.
- Bake with Care: Covering the dish with foil helps the peppers cook evenly. Remove the foil in the last few minutes to achieve that perfect melty cheese topping.
- Let Them Rest: Allow the stuffed peppers to cool for a few minutes after baking. This helps the filling set and makes them easier to serve.
- Garnish for Freshness: A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives can brighten the dish and add a fresh flavor that complements the savory filling beautifully.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 342kcal
Carbohydrates: 26g
Protein: 37g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 60mg
