Turkey and Spinach Stuffed Peppers are a nutritious and flavorful dish that combines lean ground turkey, fresh spinach, and savory spices, all packed into colorful bell peppers. This recipe is not only healthy but also easy to prepare, making it a perfect weeknight meal or a great option for meal prep!
Ingredients List
For the Stuffed Peppers:
- 4 large bell peppers (any color)
- 1 lb (450g) ground turkey
- 2 cups fresh spinach (chopped)
- 1 cup cooked quinoa or rice
- 1 small onion (finely chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup marinara sauce (plus extra for serving)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
- Olive oil (for cooking)
Timing
Preparing Turkey and Spinach Stuffed Peppers takes about 20 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes of cooking time.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: Prepare the Bell Peppers
- Cut and Clean Peppers: Slice the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. If needed, trim the bottoms slightly so they stand upright.
- Blanch (Optional): For softer peppers, you can blanch them in boiling water for 3-5 minutes, then drain and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Filling
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent (about 3-4 minutes).
- Cook Turkey: Add the ground turkey to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes).
- Add Spinach and Seasoning: Stir in the chopped spinach, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until the spinach is wilted (about 2 minutes).
- Mix in Quinoa/Rice and Sauce: Remove from heat and mix in the cooked quinoa or rice and 1 cup of marinara sauce until well combined.
Step 4: Stuff the Peppers
- Fill Peppers: Spoon the turkey and spinach mixture into each bell pepper, packing it down slightly. If using, top each pepper with shredded mozzarella cheese.
Step 5: Bake
- Arrange in Baking Dish: Place the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish. Pour a little extra marinara sauce around the peppers for added moisture.
- Cover and Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 6: Serve
- Plate and Enjoy: Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Serve warm, drizzled with additional marinara sauce if desired.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick glance at the nutritional profile of Turkey and Spinach Stuffed Peppers (per stuffed pepper, based on 4 servings):
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 300 |
| Protein | 25g |
| Fat | 10g |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Fiber | 5g |
| Sugar | 5g |
Tips for Customization
- Vegetable Variations: Add other vegetables like diced zucchini, mushrooms, or corn to the filling for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for some heat.
- Cheese Options: Use different types of cheese, such as feta or cheddar, for a unique flavor.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
Store any leftover Turkey and Spinach Stuffed Peppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.
Conclusion
Turkey and Spinach Stuffed Peppers are a delicious, healthy meal that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor. They make for a perfect family dinner or a great option for meal prep, ensuring you have a nutritious meal ready to go!
FAQs
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes! You can substitute ground turkey with ground chicken, beef, or even plant-based meat alternatives.
Can I freeze stuffed peppers?
Absolutely! You can freeze the stuffed peppers before or after baking. To freeze before baking, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container. Bake from frozen, adding extra time to the cooking.
What can I serve with stuffed peppers?
Stuffed peppers pair well with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Turkey and Spinach Stuffed Peppers Recipe
Ingredients
- For the Stuffed Peppers:
- • 4 large bell peppers (any color)
- • 1 lb (450g) ground turkey
- • 2 cups fresh spinach (chopped)
- • 1 cup cooked quinoa or rice
- • 1 small onion (finely chopped)
- • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- • Salt and pepper to taste
- • 1 cup marinara sauce (plus extra for serving)
- • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
- • Olive oil (for cooking)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: Prepare the Bell Peppers
- Slice the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. If needed, trim the bottoms slightly so they stand upright.
- For softer peppers, you can blanch them in boiling water for 3-5 minutes, then drain and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Filling
- In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent (about 3-4 minutes).
- Add the ground turkey to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes).
- Stir in the chopped spinach, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until the spinach is wilted (about 2 minutes).
- Remove from heat and mix in the cooked quinoa or rice and 1 cup of marinara sauce until well combined.
Step 4: Stuff the Peppers
- Spoon the turkey and spinach mixture into each bell pepper, packing it down slightly. If using, top each pepper with shredded mozzarella cheese.
Step 5: Bake
- Place the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish. Pour a little extra marinara sauce around the peppers for added moisture.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 6: Serve
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Serve warm, drizzled with additional marinara sauce if desired.
