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 (any color); 1 lb ground turkey; 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 cup corn (frozen or canned); 1 packet taco seasoning; 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh); 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend); Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Highlighted under: Warm & Tasty

I absolutely love making Ground Turkey Taco Stuffed Peppers for quick weeknight dinners. These vibrant bell peppers are not just visually appealing, but they’re packed with the delicious flavors of taco seasoning, ground turkey, and gooey cheese. Each bite is a perfect balance of savory, spicy, and fresh. It's a treat that’s also fun to eat, with the peppers acting as a delightful edible bowl. Plus, they’re simple to prepare and can be customized with your favorite toppings, making them a family favorite!

Created by

Perrie Lawson

Last updated on 2026-02-24T03:45:36.987Z

When I first made Ground Turkey Taco Stuffed Peppers, I wasn't sure what to expect. I had some ground turkey in the fridge and wanted to create something easy but flavorful. The combination of spices I used transformed these simple ingredients into a mouthwatering dish that my family couldn't resist. I topped them with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime for an extra burst of flavor.

What makes this recipe a go-to for me is its versatility. Depending on my mood, I might swap in different toppings or even try it with quinoa instead of turkey. I also discovered that baking the peppers just long enough to soften them allows all the flavors to meld beautifully. Trust me, you’ll want to keep this recipe in your rotation!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A deliciously spicy filling that complements the sweet peppers perfectly.
Healthy and nutritious, packed with protein and vitamins.
Great for meal prep, as they store well in the refrigerator.

Choosing the Right Peppers

When selecting bell peppers for this recipe, look for firm and glossy specimens with vibrant colors. Green, red, yellow, or orange peppers all work well, with their sweetness increasing from green to orange. If you're aiming for a lower carb version, consider using hollowed-out zucchini as an alternative; they hold the filling beautifully and provide a different flavor profile that pairs well with taco seasonings.

For better results, select peppers that can stand upright without tipping over. You can slice a small amount off the bottom if necessary for stability. Additionally, consider using mini bell peppers for a fun appetizer version; they will require shorter baking times, around 15-20 minutes, making them perfect bite-sized treats for gatherings.

Customizing Your Filling

The filling in these taco stuffed peppers can be altered based on dietary needs or personal preferences. Swap out ground turkey for ground beef, chicken, or even a plant-based protein like quinoa or tempeh for a vegetarian option. Ensure that the substitutes you choose are cooked before mixing them with the other ingredients to avoid undercooking and ensure safety.

For a heartier stuffed pepper, you can add finely chopped onions, bell peppers, or even spices like smoked paprika or cumin to the filling. These will deepen the flavor and create more complexity in each bite. If you're adding fresh ingredients, adjust your simmering time to ensure that everything is well incorporated and heated through.

Storage and Reheating Tips

These stuffed peppers store exceptionally well, making them perfect for meal prepping. Once cooled, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you want to freeze them, wrap each pepper individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag, allowing for up to 3 months of storage. This makes it easy to reheat them later without losing texture or flavor.

When reheating, place the stuffed peppers in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, typically around 20-25 minutes. If you're in a hurry, you can microwave them in a microwave-safe dish, but be cautious as this may lead to uneven heating. Cover them with a damp paper towel to help maintain moisture during reheating.

Ingredients

For the Stuffed Peppers

4 large bell peppers (any color)
1 lb ground turkey
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
1 packet taco seasoning
1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Peppers

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

Cook the Filling

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground turkey until browned. Add the black beans, corn, tomatoes, and taco seasoning. Stir well and let it simmer for about 5 minutes.

Stuff the Peppers

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

Bake

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.

Serve

Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and serve warm.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try adding some sliced jalapeños into the filling or topping each pepper with avocado slices before serving.

Serving Suggestions

These Ground Turkey Taco Stuffed Peppers are wonderfully versatile when it comes to serving options. For an authentic touch, serve them alongside homemade guacamole, salsa, or a zesty sour cream to add creaminess and extra flavor to each bite. You can also offer toppings like diced avocado, shredded lettuce, or sliced jalapeños for guests to customize their peppers.

Consider pairing the peppers with a side of Mexican rice or a light salad for a complete meal. The sweet, crunchy texture of a fresh corn salad with lime dressing complements the warm, savory peppers beautifully, creating a balanced plate that encourages a burst of flavor with every bite.

Garnishing for Presentation

Presentation is key when it comes to enticing your guests! To elevate the visual appeal of your stuffed peppers, garnish them with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro right before serving. The bright green color adds a beautiful contrast to the vibrant peppers, while cilantro delivers a fresh taste that pairs beautifully with the flavors of taco seasoning.

If you're feeling adventurous, incorporate a drizzle of chipotle crema made from blending sour cream with chipotle in adobo. This not only enhances the taste but also provides a deliciously smoky component. Serve them on a colorful platter to make the meal inviting and celebratory—perfect for casual dinners or special occasions alike.

Healthier Swaps

For those looking for healthier options, consider substituting the ground turkey with lean turkey breast or even shredded chicken for a lighter protein. This adjustment maintains the dish's protein content while reducing fat. You can also opt for low-sodium taco seasoning or make your own to control the salt content, which is always a good strategy for healthier eating.

Another excellent swap is to replace the cheese with a lower-fat version or omit it altogether for a dairy-free option. You can use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the calories, sprinkled on top after baking. Such adjustments ensure everyone can enjoy these stuffed peppers without compromising their dietary preferences.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different meat?

Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey with ground beef, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze these stuffed peppers?

Yes! After baking, let them cool completely, then wrap them tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven when ready to serve.

→ What toppings can I add?

You can add a variety of toppings including sour cream, guacamole, or sliced green onions for extra flavor.