Ground Turkey Taco Stuffed Peppers

Name: Ground Turkey Taco Stuffed Peppers
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 large bell peppers (any color); 1 lb ground turkey; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 packet taco seasoning; 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 cup corn, frozen or fresh; 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend); Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Global Taste Adventure

I absolutely love making Ground Turkey Taco Stuffed Peppers because they're not only flavorful but also a healthier twist on traditional tacos. The combination of seasoned ground turkey and colorful bell peppers creates a vibrant dish that's perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests. Each pepper is packed with just the right amount of spice and topped with melted cheese, bringing together comforting textures and tastes. It's a dish that everyone in my family enjoys, and it’s so easy to customize with different toppings or ingredients!

Created by

Perrie Lawson

Last updated on 2026-02-24T03:40:45.509Z

While experimenting with different fillings, I discovered that using ground turkey not only lightens the meal but also absorbs spices beautifully. I seasoned the turkey with taco spices, and the smell alone was enough to whet my appetite! Using multiple colors of bell peppers not only makes the dish visually appealing but also adds a slight sweetness that balances the flavors.

One tip I found useful is to lightly roast the peppers before stuffing them. This enhances their sweetness and ensures they are tender, providing the perfect vessel for the delicious filling. The added step brings out the best in this wholesome dish. Enjoy customizing with your favorite toppings!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Bold taco flavors packed into colorful peppers
Healthy and satisfying for any mealtime
Easily customizable with your favorite toppings

Perfecting Your Filling

The filling for these Ground Turkey Taco Stuffed Peppers is where the bulk of the flavor lies. Ground turkey is a lean protein, making it a great alternative to traditional beef or pork. To enhance its taste, be sure to brown the meat thoroughly before adding the spices. This not only develops a richer flavor but also locks in moisture, giving you a juicy filling. Aim for a golden-brown color, which usually takes about 7-10 minutes over medium heat.

The taco seasoning is a key player in this dish, delivering that bold flavor profile we've come to love in tacos. If you want a bit more kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the mix. Alternatively, you can easily make your own seasoning blend using chili powder, cumin, paprika, and oregano, allowing you to tailor the spice level to your liking.

Choosing Your Peppers Wisely

When selecting your bell peppers, opt for larger ones that can hold more filling and provide a satisfying bite. Their vivid colors not only make the dish visually appealing, but they also contribute different flavor notes; red peppers tend to be sweeter, while green ones offer a more peppery taste. You might also experiment with other varieties such as poblano or anaheim peppers for a smoky twist.

Be sure to cut the tops off your peppers cleanly and remove all seeds and membranes. This ensures that your filling has enough space and helps prevent any bitterness. If you're concerned about the peppers losing shape, cutting a thin slice off the bottom can help create a more stable base. Just be cautious not to cut through to the inner cavity.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to get started:

Ingredients

4 large bell peppers (any color)
1 lb ground turkey
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 packet taco seasoning
1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup corn, frozen or fresh
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Once you have everything, you're ready to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your stuffed peppers:

Prepare the Peppers

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. Place them upright in a baking dish.

Cook the Filling

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened. Add the ground turkey and cook until browned. Stir in taco seasoning, black beans, and corn. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.

Stuff the Peppers

Fill each bell pepper with the turkey mixture, pressing down gently to pack it in. Top with shredded cheese.

Bake the Peppers

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve and Enjoy

Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired, and serve hot!

Enjoy your delicious stuffed peppers!

Pro Tips

For a spicier kick, you can add diced jalapeños to the turkey mixture. You can also experiment by using ground beef or chicken in place of turkey to suit your taste.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Once prepared, these stuffed peppers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. To retain their flavor and texture, place them in an airtight container once they have cooled completely. If you're planning to make them ahead of time, you can assemble the peppers and freeze them before baking. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil for optimal freezing.

To reheat, place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish and cover with foil. Heat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are heated through. This method helps retain moisture and prevent the filling from drying out. You can also microwave them for quick reheating—in about 2-3 minutes, they’ll be hot and ready to enjoy.

Serving Suggestions

For a complete meal, consider serving your Ground Turkey Taco Stuffed Peppers with a side of Mexican-style rice or a fresh green salad. The freshness of the salad contrasts beautifully with the hearty peppers. You can also set up a toppings bar with options like salsa, sour cream, avocado, or guacamole, allowing everyone to customize their serving to their taste.

To elevate the presentation, I like to sprinkle some extra cheese on top during the last few minutes of baking for a melty finish. A squeeze of lime juice over the stuffed peppers right before serving adds a zesty brightness that cuts through the richness of the filling and cheese.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the stuffed peppers in advance and refrigerate them. Just bake before serving.

→ What can I substitute for ground turkey?

You can use ground beef, chicken, or even a vegetarian option like lentils or quinoa for a meatless version.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Leftover stuffed peppers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Is it possible to freeze these stuffed peppers?

Absolutely! After baking, allow them to cool completely, then wrap them tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.