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Savory Turkey Stuffed Bell Peppers with Brown Rice

savory turkey stuffed bell peppers - featured image

A quick and easy recipe featuring lean ground turkey and fluffy brown rice stuffed into colorful bell peppers, baked to tender perfection with a savory blend of herbs and garlic.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 large bell peppers (red, yellow, or green)
  • 1 lb (450 g) ground turkey
  • 1 cup (190 g) uncooked brown rice
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup (240 ml) diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup (25 g) grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Rinse 1 cup (190 g) of brown rice under cold water. In a pot, add the rice with 2 1/2 cups (600 ml) water and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 40-45 minutes until tender. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 10 minutes. Fluff with a fork before using.
  2. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off 4 large bell peppers and carefully remove the seeds and membranes. Lightly brush the outside of the peppers with olive oil and place them upright in a baking dish.
  3. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add 1 finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add 2 minced garlic cloves and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Add 1 lb (450 g) ground turkey to the skillet. Break it apart with a spatula and cook until no longer pink, roughly 6-8 minutes. Season with 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.
  5. Stir in 1 cup (240 ml) diced tomatoes (drained if canned) and 2 cups (450 g) cooked brown rice. Mix well and cook for another 2 minutes, allowing flavors to meld. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  6. Spoon the turkey and rice mixture into each bell pepper cavity, packing gently but not overly tight. Sprinkle a tablespoon of grated Parmesan cheese on top of each filled pepper if desired.
  7. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until peppers are tender but still hold shape and cheese is golden brown.
  8. Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley and serve warm.

Notes

Cook brown rice separately to keep it fluffy and avoid mushy texture inside peppers. Brown turkey slowly for better flavor. Use pepper tops in filling for extra veggies. Avoid overbaking peppers to keep shape and texture. Rest peppers 5 minutes before serving to let flavors meld.

Nutrition

Keywords: stuffed bell peppers, turkey stuffed peppers, brown rice recipe, healthy dinner, easy weeknight meal, lean protein, family dinner