Ground Turkey Taco Stuffed Peppers

Name: Ground Turkey Taco Stuffed Peppers
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 large bell peppers; 1 cup cooked quinoa (optional); 1 lb ground turkey; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh); 1 cup corn (canned or frozen); 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained; 2 tbsp taco seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil for cooking; Sour cream; Shredded cheese; Fresh cilantro; Avocado slices

Highlighted under: Simple Comfort Plates

I absolutely love making ground turkey taco stuffed peppers because they are not only a delicious meal but also a feast for the eyes. The vibrant colors of bell peppers stuffed with a savory turkey filling create a stunning presentation that's perfect for family dinners or gatherings. The best part is how customizable they are; I often throw in whatever veggies I have on hand, and they always turn out juicy and packed with flavor. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you'll want to make it again and again!

Created by

Paige Sullivan

Last updated on 2026-02-27T14:45:35.140Z

One afternoon, I decided to put a new spin on taco night by stuffing bell peppers with a flavorful ground turkey mixture. I sautéed onions and garlic before adding the turkey, which allowed the flavors to meld beautifully. This method kept the turkey moist and infused with all the taco seasoning goodness. I served these with a dollop of sour cream and fresh cilantro, which elevated the fresh and robust taste!

Over time, I experimented with different toppings and ingredients, and I found that adding corn and black beans not only adds color but also a delightful crunch. Each bite is a scrumptious blend of textures and flavors that has quickly become a household favorite!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Vibrant colors that brighten up your table
Juicy ground turkey with a burst of taco flavor
Easy to customize with your favorite toppings
Healthy and filling, perfect for a hearty meal

      

Selecting the Perfect Peppers

When choosing bell peppers for this recipe, opt for large, firm ones that can stand upright in the baking dish. Look for vibrant colors—red, yellow, or green—as they not only enhance the dish's visual appeal but also add sweetness. If you want more flavor, select slightly wrinkled peppers which indicate ripeness. The skin should be shiny and unblemished to ensure freshness.

If you prefer a little heat, consider using poblano or serrano peppers as an alternative. These peppers can add a delightful spiciness to your filling. Just remember, when using these alternatives, adjust your taco seasoning to balance the heat levels in the dish.

Enhancing Flavor with Custom Ingredients

Incorporating specific ingredients can elevate the overall flavor of your ground turkey filling. For instance, adding diced bell peppers or mushrooms alongside the onions and garlic during the sauté phase brings in more texture and moisture, which can enhance the juiciness of the turkey. You might also experiment with adding chopped jalapeños for a zesty kick or even fresh lime juice for a citrusy brightness that cuts through the richness of the turkey.

Don't hesitate to swap out black beans with kidney beans or chickpeas based on your preference. Different beans provide varying textures and flavors, making your stuffed peppers entirely customizable to fit any dietary needs or personal tastes.

Ingredients

For the Peppers

4 large bell peppers
1 cup cooked quinoa (optional)

For the Filling

1 lb ground turkey
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
1 cup corn (canned or frozen)
1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
2 tbsp taco seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for cooking

For Serving

Sour cream
Shredded cheese
Fresh cilantro
Avocado slices

Make sure to wash the bell peppers thoroughly before cutting them to prepare for stuffing.

Instructions

Prepare the Bell Peppers

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. If desired, you can lightly brush the outsides with olive oil for extra flavor.

Cook the Filling

In a large skillet, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the diced onions and minced garlic until translucent. Add the ground turkey and cook until browned. Stir in the diced tomatoes, corn, black beans, taco seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well and let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes.

Stuff the Peppers

If using quinoa, mix it into the turkey filling. Spoon the filling into each prepared bell pepper, packing it in well. Arrange the stuffed peppers in a baking dish.

Bake the Peppers

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until the peppers are tender and the tops are slightly golden.

Serve

Top with sour cream, shredded cheese, fresh cilantro, and avocado slices before serving. Enjoy your delicious ground turkey taco stuffed peppers!

These stuffed peppers can be made ahead of time and reheated, making them perfect for meal prep.

Pro Tips

Feel free to swap out ground turkey for ground beef or chicken for a different flavor profile. You can also add diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

These taco stuffed peppers can easily be prepared in advance, making them a perfect option for meal prepping. You can assemble the stuffed peppers completely, cover them with foil, and store them in the refrigerator for up to two days before baking. Just remember to adjust the baking time slightly if they come straight from the fridge; they might need an extra 5-10 minutes to heat through properly.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also freeze the assembled but unbaked peppers for up to three months. Just wrap them tightly to prevent freezer burn.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these stuffed peppers on a bed of fresh greens or alongside a light salad for a balanced meal. Adding a side of tortilla chips and salsa can also provide a nice crunch that complements the soft texture of the peppers. If you want to take it up a notch, consider making a zesty avocado crema by blending avocado, Greek yogurt, lime juice, and cilantro to drizzle over the top when serving.

For a party setting or when hosting family dinners, consider serving the stuffed peppers with a variety of toppings set out buffet-style. This allows guests to customize their peppers with options like diced tomatoes, jalapeños, or crumbled feta cheese, turning each serving into a personal experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze stuffed peppers?

Yes, you can freeze the prepared but uncooked stuffed peppers. Just wrap them well and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months.

→ What can I use instead of ground turkey?

You can substitute ground beef, chicken, or even a meat alternative for a vegetarian version.

→ How do I know when the peppers are done cooking?

The peppers should be tender but still hold their shape. A fork should easily pierce through the skin.

→ Can I add more vegetables to the filling?

Absolutely! Diced zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach are great additions to enhance nutrition and flavor.