High Protein Stuffed Bell Peppers

Name: High Protein Stuffed Bell Peppers
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 large bell peppers (any color); 1 pound lean ground turkey; 1 cup cooked quinoa; 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained; 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen); 1 cup diced tomatoes; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella or cheddar); Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

I absolutely love making High Protein Stuffed Bell Peppers for a hearty and nutritious meal. Each bite bursts with flavor, and I can easily customize the stuffing with my favorite ingredients. Using lean ground turkey and quinoa not only elevates the protein content but also keeps the dish wholesome. Trust me, these vibrant peppers are a feast for the eyes and the palate, perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep for the week ahead!

Created by

Lara

Last updated on 2026-02-01T14:34:28.026Z

When I first experimented with High Protein Stuffed Bell Peppers, I wanted to create something healthy that didn't skimp on flavors. I quickly learned that combining sweet bell peppers with a savory blend of quinoa and turkey not only makes for a nutritious meal but also fulfills my cravings for comfort food!

One of the best tips I discovered is to roast the bell peppers before stuffing them. This step caramelizes the natural sugars in the peppers, enhancing their sweetness and making the entire dish really pop. I also love adding spices like cumin and paprika to give it that extra kick!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Packed with lean protein from turkey and quinoa
Vibrant colors make for an appealing plate
Easily customizable with various fillings
A healthy dish that's satisfying and filling

Choosing the Right Bell Peppers

When selecting bell peppers for this recipe, opt for large, firm peppers without blemishes for the best results. Different colors, such as red, yellow, green, or orange, offer varying sweetness levels, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the dish. For instance, red peppers tend to be sweeter, while green ones are a bit more bitter. By mixing colors, you not only make your dish visually appealing but also introduce a delightful mix of tastes and textures.

If you find large bell peppers aren’t available, consider using smaller ones instead. They can be stuffed as delightful bite-sized appetizers. Adjust your cooking time slightly; smaller peppers may require around 20 minutes of baking initially, followed by the additional 5-10 minutes once the foil is removed, to ensure they are tender while still holding their shape.

Boosting Flavor and Nutritional Value

Adding spices like cumin and smoked paprika is crucial in shaping the flavor of your filling. Cumin adds earthiness, while smoked paprika infuses a subtle smoky depth that compliments the other ingredients beautifully. Don’t hesitate to explore other seasonings like chili powder or oregano for a customized flavor profile. Remember, seasoning the filling adequately is key, as it will determine the overall taste of each stuffed pepper, so taste as you go!

The inclusion of quinoa not only raises the protein content but also contributes a slightly nutty flavor and chewy texture, making the dish more filling. If you're looking for alternatives, consider using farro or barley for a different twist. Each grain alters the texture and taste slightly, providing versatility in this hearty recipe while still ensuring you stay within that high-protein framework.

Ingredients

Gather all the fresh ingredients to get started with this delicious meal!

Ingredients

4 large bell peppers (any color)
1 pound lean ground turkey
1 cup cooked quinoa
1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
1 cup diced tomatoes
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella or cheddar)
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Once you have all the ingredients ready, you're all set to make these tasty stuffed bell peppers!

Instructions

Now, let’s dive into the cooking process.

Prepare the Peppers

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and slice the tops off the bell peppers. Remove the seeds and membranes and set them aside.

Cook the Filling

In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, sautéing until soft. Stir in the ground turkey, cooking until browned. Mix in the spices, cooked quinoa, black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper.

Stuff the Peppers

Fill each bell pepper with the turkey and quinoa mixture. Place them upright in a baking dish and sprinkle cheese on top.

Bake

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly. Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving!

Enjoy your delicious and nutritious high protein stuffed bell peppers!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, feel free to add some spices or herbs to the filling. You can also swap out the turkey for chicken or plant-based proteins depending on your dietary preferences.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

These High Protein Stuffed Bell Peppers are perfect for meal prepping. You can prepare the filling up to two days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, simply stuff the peppers and adjust the cooking time slightly if the filling is cold, allowing an additional 5 minutes in the oven. This saves time on busy weeknights without compromising on flavor.

If you want to make a batch for later, these stuffed peppers freeze excellently. Once baked, allow them to cool completely, then wrap each pepper in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you're ready to enjoy them, just thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, approximately 20–25 minutes.

Serving Suggestions and Variation Ideas

Serving these stuffed peppers with a fresh salad or a dollop of Greek yogurt can enhance the meal by adding an extra layer of texture and flavor. Additionally, consider serving them drizzled with a homemade avocado sauce or pico de gallo for a refreshing contrast to the heartiness of the filling. This can make for a satisfying and well-rounded dinner that pleases the palate.

For a unique twist, you can substitute the ground turkey with lean beef, chicken, or even a plant-based protein like lentils or tempeh. This not only changes the flavor profile but also caters to different dietary preferences. Feel free to add vegetables like chopped zucchini or spinach into the filling for added nutrition and color while maintaining that comforting texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the filling ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the fridge until you're ready to stuff the peppers.

→ What can I substitute for quinoa?

If you don’t have quinoa on hand, cooked rice or farro can work well as a substitute.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.

→ Can I freeze stuffed peppers?

Yes, you can freeze raw or cooked stuffed peppers. Wrap them tightly and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months.