Looking for a delicious and satisfying dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine right to your dinner table? Look no further than these Santa Fe Turkey Stuffed Peppers! Bursting with savory ground turkey, hearty black beans, and zesty salsa, this recipe is not only a feast for the senses but also a nutritious option for any meal. With just 45 minutes of your time, you can create a colorful and appetizing dish that will leave your family and friends asking for seconds. Dive into this mouthwatering recipe and discover how easy it is to make a meal that’s both healthy and utterly delectable!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 bell peppers
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 cup shredded cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease with cooking spray.
- Prepare the bell peppers by cutting them in half lengthwise, removing seeds and membranes. Ensure the peppers are clean and have a flat surface to sit in the baking dish.
- 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 cumin and chili powder to the turkey, stirring to distribute the spices evenly. Cook for an additional minute to enhance the spice flavors.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked turkey, cooked rice, black beans, corn, and half of the salsa. Mix thoroughly to create the stuffing.
- Arrange the pepper halves in the prepared baking dish, cut side up. Generously fill each pepper half with the turkey and rice mixture.
- Top the stuffed peppers with remaining salsa and sprinkle shredded cheese over each pepper.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25-30 minutes, until peppers are tender and cheese is melted.
- Remove foil for the last 5 minutes of baking to allow the cheese to become slightly golden and bubbly.
- Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with optional fresh cilantro or green onions if desired.
Tips
- Choose the Right Peppers: Opt for vibrant bell peppers in various colors for a visually appealing dish. They not only look great but also add a slight sweetness that complements the savory filling.
- Cook the Turkey Thoroughly: Ensure the ground turkey is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F for safety. This step is crucial to avoid any foodborne illnesses.
- Customize the Filling: Feel free to get creative with the stuffing! Add diced tomatoes, chopped onions, or even some chopped jalapeños for an extra kick.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the stuffing a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just stuff the peppers and bake them when you're ready to eat.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese such as pepper jack for a spicier flavor or a blend of cheeses for a richer taste.
- Garnish for Flavor: Don’t skip the garnish! Fresh cilantro or sliced green onions can elevate the presentation and add a fresh burst of flavor to your stuffed peppers.
- Serve with Sides: Pair your stuffed peppers with a side of Mexican rice or a fresh salad to round out the meal and impress your guests!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 85mg
