High Protein Stuffed Bell Peppers

Name: High Protein Stuffed Bell Peppers
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 large bell peppers (any color); 1 lb ground turkey; 1 cup cooked brown rice; 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp cumin; 1 tsp chili powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded cheese (optional); Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Simple Healthy Dishes

I absolutely love making these High Protein Stuffed Bell Peppers whenever I want a healthy yet satisfying meal. Each pepper is packed with flavorful protein-rich ingredients that not only keep me full but also delight my taste buds. They’re incredibly versatile, allowing me to swap out ingredients based on what I have on hand. Whether it's for a quick dinner, meal prep, or a nutritious lunch, these stuffed peppers are my go-to recipe. Plus, they look so vibrant and inviting, making it hard to resist digging in!

Created by

Lena

Last updated on 2026-02-01T15:22:31.083Z

While developing this recipe, I aimed to create a nutritious meal that didn’t compromise on flavor. The combination of lean ground turkey, black beans, and brown rice creates a filling meal that’s packed with protein. I discovered that roasting the bell peppers first gives them an amazing flavor and texture that complements the stuffing beautifully.

To make the stuffing more exciting, I added a blend of spices and fresh herbs. This technique not only amplifies the taste but also enhances the aromatic experience while cooking. Trust me, the scent of these peppers baking in the oven is irresistible!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich and savory filling that satisfies your hunger
Colorful presentation that brightens any meal
Customizable ingredients to suit your dietary preferences

Ingredient Insights

The choice of meat can significantly influence the flavor profile of your High Protein Stuffed Bell Peppers. Ground turkey is a lean option that cooks quickly and absorbs the spices beautifully. However, for a richer flavor, you can substitute ground beef or chicken. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly—ground chicken might take a minute or two less, while beef could require a touch longer to fully brown.

Black beans not only add protein but also provide a creamy texture that contrasts nicely with the crunch of the bell peppers. If you're looking for alternatives, chickpeas or lentils can also work well, becoming quite tender when mixed with the other filling ingredients. Just ensure they are pre-cooked or canned, so they meld seamlessly into the stuffing.

Techniques for Success

When preparing the bell peppers, make sure to remove all seeds and the white pith inside; this ensures they become tender while baking and helps the flavors from the stuffing permeate the flesh. To enhance the peppers' vibrant colors, you can use a variety of bell pepper colors, which not only looks appealing but also can add slight variations in taste between the different types.

While sautéing the onion and garlic, keep an eye on them to avoid browning too much; you want them just until they're translucent and fragrant. This step builds the base flavors that will infuse the turkey as it cooks. I find that adding the garlic a minute after the onions gives it a fresher flavor without the risk of burning.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh and nutritious ingredients to create your stuffed peppers:

Ingredients for Stuffing

4 large bell peppers (any color)
1 lb ground turkey
1 cup cooked brown rice
1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
Fresh cilantro for garnish

These wholesome ingredients come together to create a delicious and satisfying meal.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your High Protein Stuffed Bell Peppers:

Prepare the Peppers

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. Lightly coat the outside of the peppers with olive oil and place them in a baking dish.

Cook the Filling

In a large skillet, heat a bit of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic, and ground turkey, cooking until the turkey is browned. Mix in the black beans, brown rice, cumin, chili powder, and season with salt and pepper.

Stuff the Peppers

Fill each bell pepper with the turkey mixture, packing it down slightly. If desired, sprinkle cheese on top of the filling.

Bake the Peppers

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, until the peppers are tender and the cheese is bubbly.

Serve

Garnish with fresh cilantro and enjoy your delicious High Protein Stuffed Bell Peppers!

Enjoy your meal and the burst of flavors in every bite!

Pro Tips

For a vegetarian version, substitute ground turkey with quinoa or lentils and add some chopped vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms to the stuffing.

Make-Ahead and Storage

These stuffed peppers are an excellent make-ahead option. You can prepare them up to the baking stage, cover with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, simply add a few extra minutes to the cooking time, as they will go into the oven cold. This makes it easy to have a nutritious meal ready in a hurry on busy weeknights.

Leftover stuffed peppers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, place them in the microwave or oven until heated through. If using the oven, cover with foil to prevent drying out, reheating at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 to 20 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

These High Protein Stuffed Bell Peppers pair wonderfully with a fresh green salad or a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal. Consider serving them with a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream for added creaminess and tang. A side of salsa or guacamole can also elevate the flavor profile and add some zest.

For a heartier variation, you might try adding corn or diced tomatoes directly into the stuffing. This not only enhances flavor but also adds moisture, ensuring the filling remains juicy and satisfying. I often recommend a sprinkle of fresh lime juice over the top just before serving, for an extra brightness that complements the spices beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these stuffed peppers ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the peppers and stuffing in advance. Just stuff the peppers and store them in the fridge for up to a day before baking.

→ What can I serve with these stuffed peppers?

These stuffed peppers are great on their own, but they pair nicely with a side salad or some roasted vegetables.

→ Can I freeze leftover stuffed peppers?

Absolutely! Once baked, let them cool completely, wrap them tightly in foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven when ready to enjoy.

→ What other ingredients can I use for the filling?

Feel free to get creative! You can add corn, different beans, or even diced tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition.