Stuffed Bell Peppers

A Healthy and Flavorful Meal Recipe

Stuffed bell peppers are a classic dish that’s not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. This Stuffed Bell Peppers recipe combines tender bell peppers with a savory filling of lean protein, healthy vegetables, and aromatic seasonings. It’s the perfect dish for anyone seeking a healthy, balanced meal that’s easy to prepare and full of flavor. Whether you’re on a low-carb diet, keto, or just looking for a wholesome dinner, this recipe will satisfy your cravings and nourish your body.

Why You’ll Love This Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

  1. Customizable: Easily adjust the filling to your taste or dietary preferences—whether you prefer ground turkey, beef, or a vegetarian filling.
  2. Nutrient-Rich: Packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants from the bell peppers and other wholesome ingredients.
  3. Low-Carb & Keto-Friendly: With a low-carb filling, this dish fits perfectly into a ketogenic or low-carb diet.
  4. Delicious & Satisfying: The combination of a savory filling and tender, roasted bell peppers is both flavorful and filling.
  5. Meal Prep-Friendly: Prepare a batch of stuffed peppers for an easy, make-ahead meal.

Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
Total Time: 50-55 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

  • 4 large bell peppers (any color: red, yellow, green, or orange)
  • 1 lb ground turkey (or ground beef, chicken, or plant-based protein for a vegetarian option)
  • 1 small onion (diced)
  • 1 cup cauliflower rice (for a low-carb option) or regular rice
  • 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional, for heat)
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a dairy-free option if needed)
  • Fresh cilantro or parsley (for garnish, optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Bell Peppers:

  • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. If needed, slice a small portion off the bottom to make them stand upright.
  • Place the peppers on a baking dish and set aside.

2. Cook the Filling:

  • In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
  • Add the ground turkey (or protein of choice) and cook until browned, breaking it up into smaller pieces as it cooks.
  • Stir in the garlic powder, ground cumin, chili powder (if using), paprika, salt, and pepper.
  • Add the cauliflower rice (or regular rice) and diced tomatoes, and cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine.

3. Stuff the Peppers:

  • Spoon the filling mixture into the prepared bell peppers, packing them tightly. If using cheese, sprinkle some on top of each stuffed pepper.

4. Bake:

  • Place the stuffed peppers in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the filling is heated through.
  • If desired, add a bit more cheese on top of the peppers during the last 5 minutes of baking and bake until melted and bubbly.

5. Garnish and Serve:

  • Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley. Serve hot, and enjoy your flavorful and healthy stuffed bell peppers!

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

  • Calories: ~350
  • Protein: ~30g
  • Fat: ~20g
  • Carbohydrates: ~12g
  • Fiber: ~5g
  • Net Carbs: ~7g
  • Sugar: ~5g

Health Benefits of Stuffed Bell Peppers

  1. Low-Carb & Keto-Friendly: Using cauliflower rice as a base makes these stuffed peppers a great low-carb, keto-friendly option.
  2. Packed with Nutrients: Bell peppers are a rich source of vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber, making them great for immune support and digestion.
  3. High in Protein: The lean protein from ground turkey (or your preferred protein) helps to build and repair muscles, while keeping you full longer.
  4. Rich in Fiber: Cauliflower rice or regular rice adds fiber to your meal, promoting healthy digestion and keeping you satisfied for hours.
  5. Versatile: Customize your stuffed peppers with different fillings like quinoa, beans, or a vegetarian mix to suit your dietary preferences.

Tips for Perfect Stuffed Bell Peppers

  1. Customize Your Filling: Feel free to add or substitute ingredients. Add black beans, quinoa, or even zucchini for a more veggie-packed option.
  2. Use Pre-Cooked Rice: If you prefer using regular rice, make sure it’s pre-cooked to speed up the cooking process.
  3. Make Them Spicy: For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper, jalapeños, or hot sauce to the filling.
  4. Don’t Overcook the Peppers: Keep an eye on the peppers while baking. Overcooking them can make them too soft and mushy.
  5. Meal Prep: Make a double batch and store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3-4 days or freeze them for later.

Customization Ideas

  • Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground turkey with a plant-based protein like lentils or tempeh for a vegan version.
  • Cheese Lovers: Add a variety of cheeses, such as mozzarella, cheddar, or feta, for a rich, melty filling.
  • Add Extra Veggies: Load your peppers with even more veggies, like mushrooms, spinach, or carrots, to increase the nutritional value.
  • Make Them Sweet: Add a touch of cinnamon or a drizzle of honey to the filling for a unique twist that combines savory and sweet.

FAQs

1. Can I make these stuffed peppers in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the stuffed peppers in advance and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days before baking. You can also bake them, allow them to cool, and then store the leftovers in the fridge for easy reheating.

2. Can I use ground beef instead of turkey?

Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef or any other ground protein you prefer. Just make sure to drain any excess fat if using higher-fat meats.

3. Can I make these stuffed peppers dairy-free?

Yes, you can make these dairy-free by omitting the cheese or using a dairy-free cheese alternative.

4. How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover stuffed peppers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warm.

Conclusion

This Stuffed Bell Peppers recipe is a nutritious, customizable, and filling meal that fits perfectly into various dietary preferences, including low-carb and keto diets. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a meal prep option, these stuffed peppers are sure to become a family favorite. The combination of lean protein, fresh vegetables, and aromatic spices creates a savory and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion.