Healthy Stuffed Bell Peppers

Remember those chaotic weeknights when dinner felt like a race against the clock? I certainly do! With three energetic kids, finding a meal everyone adores, thatโ€™s also genuinely nourishing, feels like a monumental win.

Thatโ€™s precisely why these Healthy Stuffed Bell Peppers became an absolute game-changer in my kitchen. They are savory, straightforward to prepare, and packed with wholesome ingredients. My youngest, Leo, always calls them “the happy boats!” And honestly, who can blame him?

These Healthy Stuffed Bell Peppers aren’t just a meal; they’re a comforting, flavorful hug in a vibrant pepper shell. You’ll quickly discover why I regularly turn to these satisfying Healthy Stuffed Bell Peppers for my family.

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Healthy Stuffed Bell Peppers

Healthy Stuffed Bell Peppers


  • Author: NATALIA
  • Total Time: 65 mins
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

These Healthy Stuffed Bell Peppers are a game-changer for busy weeknights, offering a savory, straightforward, and nourishing meal packed with wholesome ingredients. They are versatile, perfect for sneaking in extra vegetables, and beloved by the whole family for their rich flavors and satisfying texture.


Ingredients

Scale

4 large Bell Peppers
1 lb Lean Ground Turkey (or beef)
1 cup Cooked Brown Rice
1 medium Diced Onio
2 cloves Garlic, minced
1 (14.5 oz) can Canned Diced Tomatoes
1 (8 oz) can Tomato Sauce
1 tsp Worcestershire Sauce
1 tsp Italian Seasoning
To taste Salt
To taste Pepper
1/2 cup Shredded Mozzarella (optional)
2 tbsp Fresh Parsley, chopped


Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375ยฐF (190ยฐC)
  2. Cut bell peppers in half lengthwise and remove seeds and membranes. Arrange them cut-side up in a baking dish
  3. In a large skillet, brown ground turkey over medium heat. Drain any excess fat
  4. Add diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes
  5. Stir in cooked brown rice, diced tomatoes (undrained), half of the tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well
  6. Evenly spoon the filling into each bell pepper half
  7. Pour the remaining tomato sauce over the filled peppers
  8. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes
  9. Uncover, sprinkle with mozzarella cheese (if using), and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and cheese is melted and bubbly
  10. Garnish your Healthy Stuffed Bell Peppers with fresh parsley before serving

Notes

Choose firm, brightly colored bell peppers. If you prefer softer peppers, par-boil them for 5-7 minutes before stuffing.

Don't overfill the peppers; leave a little room for expansion.

Make a double batch of the filling; it freezes beautifully for future meals.

Always season your filling generously to ensure every bite bursts with flavor.

Store leftover Healthy Stuffed Bell Peppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place them in an oven preheated to 350ยฐF (175ยฐC) for 15-20 minutes, or microwave until heated through.

You can also freeze cooked Healthy Stuffed Bell Peppers for up to 3 months. Thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating.

For a vegetarian version, swap the meat for black beans, lentils, or crumbled firm tofu. You can also use quinoa instead of brown rice.

Feel free to add other veggies to the filling, like corn, peas, or spinach. Experiment with different cheeses, or omit it entirely for a dairy-free option.

These are fantastic for meal prepping. You can assemble them entirely ahead of time and bake when ready, or bake them fully and portion them for lunches throughout the week, as their flavors deepen beautifully.

Any color bell pepper works wonderfully. Red, yellow, and orange bell peppers offer a sweeter flavor profile, while green bell peppers have a slightly more robust and earthy taste.

  • Prep Time: 20 mins
  • Cook Time: 45 mins
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving (2 pepper halves)
  • Calories: 320 kcal
  • Sugar: 13g
  • Sodium: 650mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 27g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Protein: 28g
  • Cholesterol: 96mg

Keywords: Healthy Stuffed Bell Peppers, ground turkey, brown rice, weeknight meal, family friendly, meal prep, easy dinner

WHY YOU’LL LOVE THESE HEALTHY STUFFED BELL PEPPERS

You need these Healthy Stuffed Bell Peppers in your life, truly. They are incredibly versatile, fitting perfectly into a busy schedule. Plus, these Healthy Stuffed Bell Peppers are a fantastic way to sneak in extra vegetables, even for picky eaters.

Everyone around the table will enjoy the rich flavors and satisfying texture. Making these Healthy Stuffed Bell Peppers also fills your home with the most incredible aroma. What’s not to love about delicious, nutritious Healthy Stuffed Bell Peppers?

INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED

Healthy Stuffed Bell Peppers
IngredientQuantity
Bell Peppers4 large (any color)
Lean Ground Turkey (or beef)1 lb
Cooked Brown Rice1 cup
Diced Onion1 medium
Garlic, minced2 cloves
Canned Diced Tomatoes1 (14.5 oz) can, undrained
Tomato Sauce1 (8 oz) can
Worcestershire Sauce1 tsp
Italian Seasoning1 tsp
Salt & PepperTo taste
Shredded Mozzarella (optional)1/2 cup
Fresh Parsley, chopped (for garnish)2 tbsp

SUBSTITUTIONS & VARIATIONS

Customize your Healthy Stuffed Bell Peppers with ease! For a vegetarian version, swap the meat for black beans, lentils, or crumbled firm tofu. You can also use quinoa instead of brown rice in your Healthy Stuffed Bell Peppers for a different texture and protein boost.

Feel free to add other veggies to the filling, like corn, peas, or spinach. Experiment with different cheeses, or omit it entirely for a dairy-free option. These Healthy Stuffed Bell Peppers welcome your personal touch!

While these Healthy Stuffed Bell Peppers offer endless customization, sometimes you crave a healthy treat to balance your meals. For a guilt-free dessert that still satisfies your sweet tooth, consider making these Healthy Sweet Potato Brownies.

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS

Making these delightful Healthy Stuffed Bell Peppers is straightforward.

  1. Preheat your oven to 375ยฐF (190ยฐC).
  2. Cut bell peppers in half lengthwise and remove seeds and membranes. Arrange them cut-side up in a baking dish.
  3. In a large skillet, brown ground turkey over medium heat. Drain any excess fat.
  4. Add diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  5. Stir in cooked brown rice, diced tomatoes (undrained), half of the tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
  6. Evenly spoon the filling into each bell pepper half.
  7. Pour the remaining tomato sauce over the filled peppers.
  8. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
  9. Uncover, sprinkle with mozzarella cheese (if using), and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and cheese is melted and bubbly.
  10. Garnish your Healthy Stuffed Bell Peppers with fresh parsley before serving.

Note: This video is for demonstration purposes and may use a slightly different method.

PRO TIPS FOR SUCCESS

Healthy Stuffed Bell Peppers

For the best Healthy Stuffed Bell Peppers, choose firm, brightly colored bell peppers. If you prefer softer peppers, par-boil them for 5-7 minutes before stuffing. Don’t overfill the peppers; leave a little room for expansion.

Make a double batch of the filling; it freezes beautifully for future Healthy Stuffed Bell Peppers meals. Always season your filling generously. You want every bite of these Healthy Stuffed Bell Peppers to burst with flavor.

Achieving the perfect Healthy Stuffed Bell Peppers involves smart prep and careful seasoning to ensure every bite is flavorful. Similarly, mastering the art of appetizers requires attention to detail, like with these crispy Healthy Mini Air Fryer Blooming Onions.

STORAGE & REHEATING TIPS

Store leftover Healthy Stuffed Bell Peppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place them in an oven preheated to 350ยฐF (175ยฐC) for 15-20 minutes, or microwave until heated through. You can also freeze cooked Healthy Stuffed Bell Peppers for up to 3 months. Thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating.

WHAT TO SERVE WITH THIS RECIPE

Healthy Stuffed Bell Peppers

These satisfying Healthy Stuffed Bell Peppers are a complete meal on their own. However, a simple side salad with a light vinaigrette perfectly complements them. Crusty whole-grain bread is excellent for soaking up any extra sauce.

For a larger meal, consider a side of roasted asparagus or steamed green beans. Fresh fruit also offers a refreshing contrast to the hearty Healthy Stuffed Bell Peppers.

Although these Healthy Stuffed Bell Peppers are a complete and hearty meal on their own, a light side can elevate the experience. For another versatile and nutritious option perfect for breakfast or a snack, explore how to make Healthy Zucchini Carrot Oatmeal Muffins.

FAQS

Are Healthy Stuffed Bell Peppers good for meal prep?

Absolutely! These Healthy Stuffed Bell Peppers are fantastic for meal prepping. You can assemble them entirely ahead of time and bake when ready, or bake them fully and portion them for lunches throughout the week. Their flavors deepen beautifully.

Can I make these Healthy Stuffed Bell Peppers vegetarian?

Yes, easily! Simply substitute the ground turkey with a plant-based protein like cooked lentils, black beans, or a mixture of finely diced mushrooms and walnuts. You’ll still achieve delicious and satisfying Healthy Stuffed Bell Peppers.

What kind of bell peppers work best for Healthy Stuffed Bell Peppers?

Any color bell pepper works wonderfully! Red, yellow, and orange bell peppers offer a sweeter flavor profile, while green bell peppers have a slightly more robust and earthy taste. Choose what you love for your Healthy Stuffed Bell Peppers.

Originating from various culinary traditions across the globe, the concept of a stuffed pepper is incredibly ancient, offering a delightful way to combine grains, meats, and vegetables into one harmonious dish. From Mediterranean influences to Eastern European variations, stuffed bell peppers have long been celebrated for their versatility and comforting flavors.

NUTRITION INFORMATION (PER SERVING)

NutrientAmount
Calories320
Protein28g
Fat12g
Carbohydrates27g
Fiber5g
Sodium650mg

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