Ground Turkey And Spinach Stuffed Peppers

Name: Ground Turkey And Spinach Stuffed Peppers
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 large bell peppers; 1 pound ground turkey; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup cooked rice; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup marinara sauce; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Highlighted under: Natural Recipes

When it comes to weeknight dinners, I love making Ground Turkey and Spinach Stuffed Peppers. It’s a delightful way to combine fresh vegetables with hearty protein, all in a colorful package. Each bite is bursting with savory flavors and a hint of spice that keeps you coming back for more. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to prepare, making them a go-to in my kitchen. Simple ingredients come together beautifully, satisfying the whole family while keeping things healthy. I can’t wait for you to try them!

Created by

Aileen Prescott

Last updated on 2026-02-27T12:06:34.740Z

Making Ground Turkey and Spinach Stuffed Peppers has become a family favorite in my home. When I first tried this recipe, I was looking for a healthy yet filling dinner option. The combination of turkey and spinach not only makes it nutritious, but the flavors meld perfectly as they cook together in the oven. I recommend using fresh spinach for a colorful twist, which elevates the dish and adds vibrancy to the presentation.

One specific tip I discovered is to roast the peppers slightly before filling them. This enhances their sweetness and ensures a tender bite. I also like to prepare a simple tomato sauce to drizzle over the top for added moisture and flavor. The result is a wholesome meal that looks as good as it tastes!

Why You'll Love These Peppers
A colorful and nutritious dish that’s visually appealing
Quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
Flexibility to customize with different fillings for variety

Getting the Perfect Texture

When cooking ground turkey, it's essential to ensure that it reaches a golden brown color for optimal flavor and texture. Sauté the meat over medium heat, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks to prevent clumping. This will help render out some of the fat while allowing the meat to brown evenly. Aim for a slight crispness on the edges, which enhances the overall depth of flavor in the filling.

Using fresh spinach is crucial for this recipe, as it wilts down considerably during cooking, adding an earthy note without overwhelming the dish. Be sure to chop the spinach finely before adding it to the skillet; this allows it to blend seamlessly with the ground turkey and rice, ensuring that every bite delivers a delightful combination of textures.

Flavor Enhancements

While Italian seasoning works beautifully in this recipe, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick. Just a pinch can elevate the flavor profile and personalize the dish to your liking. For an even richer taste, you might also experiment with herbs like dried basil or oregano, which can be added to the filling for additional aroma and flavor complexity.

Another tip is to let the marinara sauce simmer while you're preparing the stuffing. This enhances its flavor; just bring it to a gentle bubble for 10 minutes. Also, consider using homemade marinara or a store-bought version that contains no added sugars for a healthier option. The right sauce can tie the entire dish together, making each bite burst with flavor.

Ingredients

Stuffed Peppers Ingredients

4 large bell peppers
1 pound ground turkey
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup cooked rice
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup marinara sauce
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Feel free to adjust the ingredients based on your preference!

Instructions

Prepare the Peppers

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. Set them aside.

Cook the Filling

In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the onion and garlic until translucent. Add the ground turkey and cook until browned. Mix in the chopped spinach, cooked rice, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

Stuff the Peppers

Fill each bell pepper with the turkey and spinach mixture. Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish.

Add Sauce and Cheese

Pour marinara sauce over the stuffed peppers and sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top.

Bake

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your delicious stuffed peppers!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding some crushed red pepper flakes or using different herbs in the filling. You can substitute ground turkey with other proteins like beef or quinoa for a vegetarian option.

Make-Ahead Tips

These stuffed peppers can be prepped a day in advance, making weeknight dinners even simpler. After filling the peppers, cover them tightly with foil and store them in the refrigerator. When ready to cook, just pop them in the oven as instructed. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to deepen as they sit.

If you're looking to freeze them for later use, ensure that the stuffed peppers are completely cooled before wrapping them individually in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake for about 45 minutes at 375°F (190°C), until heated through.

Serving Suggestions

To serve these stuffed peppers, consider pairing them with a simple side salad or crusty whole-grain bread. A light vinaigrette can cut through the richness of the cheese and add a refreshing contrast. You could also drizzle some balsamic reduction over the top before serving for a touch of elegance and sweetness.

For a creative twist, top the peppers with diced avocado or a dollop of sour cream when serving. This adds creaminess that complements the savory filling and enhances the overall texture. Plus, adding greens like arugula or microgreens as a garnish not only elevates the presentation but also contributes a peppery taste that aligns beautifully with the other flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare the stuffed peppers ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the stuffed peppers a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Just bake them before serving.

→ What other ingredients can I add?

Feel free to add chopped tomatoes, corn, or black beans for more flavor and nutrition!

→ Can I freeze the stuffed peppers?

Absolutely! Just make sure to wrap them well in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

→ What side dishes pair well with stuffed peppers?

A simple green salad or garlic bread makes a perfect side! It complements the flavors without overwhelming.