Delicious Quick Turkey & Spinach Stuffed Peppers have become my go-to recipe when I need to put a healthy, satisfying dinner on the table without spending hours in the kitchen. This colorful, nutrient-packed meal combines lean ground turkey, fresh spinach, and vibrant bell peppers for a dinner that’s as nutritious as it is delicious. If you’re searching for quick healthy dinner recipes that don’t sacrifice flavor, this stuffed pepper recipe deserves a spot in your weekly meal rotation.
Nutritional Benefits
These stuffed peppers pack a serious nutritional punch. Bell peppers are loaded with vitamin C (more than oranges!), while turkey provides lean protein that keeps you feeling full longer. The addition of spinach brings iron, calcium, and vitamins A and K to your plate.
| Nutrition (per serving) | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 |
| Protein | 28g |
| Carbohydrates | 18g |
| Fat | 16g |
| Fiber | 5g |
| Sugar | 6g |
Ingredients & Substitutions
| Ingredient | Role | Possible Substitutions |
|---|---|---|
| 4 large bell peppers (any color) | Main vessel for stuffing | Portobello mushrooms, zucchini boats, or hollowed tomatoes |
| 1 lb ground turkey | Lean protein base | Ground chicken, beef, or plant-based meat substitute |
| 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped | Adds nutrients and color | Kale, Swiss chard, or arugula |
| 1 cup cooked brown rice | Adds texture and heartiness | Quinoa, cauliflower rice, or bulgur |
| 1 small onion, diced | Flavor base | Shallots, leeks, or 1 tsp onion powder |
| 2 garlic cloves, minced | Flavor enhancer | 1 tsp garlic powder or 1 tbsp garlic paste |
| 1 cup tomato sauce | Moisture and flavor | Salsa, marinara sauce, or diced tomatoes |
| 1 tsp Italian seasoning | Flavor profile | Mix of basil, oregano, and thyme |
| 1/2 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella or cheddar) | Topping and binding | Feta, parmesan, or nutritional yeast (for dairy-free) |
| 2 tbsp olive oil | For sautéing | Avocado oil, coconut oil, or butter |
| Salt and pepper to taste | Seasoning | Seasoned salt, herb salt, or lemon pepper |
Equipment Needed
– Cutting board and knife
– Large skillet or frying pan
– Baking dish (9×13 inch works well)
– Measuring cups and spoons
– Mixing spoon
– Aluminum foil
– Optional: food processor for chopping vegetables
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the peppers: Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. If needed for stability, slice a small portion off the bottoms to help them stand upright. Place in a baking dish.
3. Cook the filling: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions and sauté for 2-3 minutes until translucent.
4. Brown the turkey: Add ground turkey to the skillet and break it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until no longer pink, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Add aromatics and vegetables: Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Add chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
6. Combine remaining ingredients: Add cooked rice, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Mix well and cook for another 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through and well combined.
7. Stuff the peppers: Fill each pepper with the delicious quick turkey & spinach mixture. Pour 1/4 cup water into the bottom of the baking dish to create steam while baking.
8. Cover and bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
9. Add cheese: Remove foil, sprinkle the tops with shredded cheese, and bake uncovered for an additional 5-10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and peppers are tender.
10. Rest and serve: Let the peppers rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to settle. Serve with a side salad for a complete quick healthy dinner recipe that your family will love.
Troubleshooting & Pro Tips
– Peppers still too firm? Pre-cook them by blanching in boiling water for 2-3 minutes before stuffing.
– Mixture too dry? Add a splash more tomato sauce or a tablespoon of broth.
– Mixture too wet? Add a tablespoon of breadcrumbs to absorb excess moisture.
– Short on time? Use pre-cooked rice or microwavable rice packets to cut down prep time.
– Make it spicy: Add a diced jalapeño or red pepper flakes for heat.
– Even quicker method: Chop the peppers and make it a skillet meal instead of stuffed peppers.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
– Make-Ahead: Prepare the stuffed peppers up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.
– Refrigerator Storage: Store leftover peppers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
– Freezer Instructions: Individually wrap cooled stuffed peppers in plastic wrap and then foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
– Reheating: Microwave for 2-3 minutes or reheat in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
Conclusion
These Delicious Quick Turkey & Spinach Stuffed Peppers are the perfect solution when you need a nutritious, satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. With just 30 minutes of active preparation, you’ll have a colorful dinner that delivers on both flavor and health benefits. The combination of lean turkey, nutrient-rich spinach, and the natural sweetness of bell peppers creates a balanced meal that works for everyday dinners or casual entertaining. For families looking for quick healthy dinner recipes that everyone will enjoy, this versatile dish checks all the boxes.
FAQ
Can I use ground beef instead of turkey?
Yes, you can substitute ground beef, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives. Just adjust cooking time accordingly, as beef may take slightly longer to cook through.
How do I keep my peppers from falling over in the baking dish?
Slice a small portion off the bottom of each pepper to create a flat base. Alternatively, use a smaller baking dish where the peppers can lean against each other for support.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Replace the ground turkey with crumbled tofu, tempeh, or a plant-based meat substitute. You can also use a mixture of cooked lentils and mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian filling.
What if my family doesn’t like spinach?
You can finely chop the spinach so it’s less noticeable or substitute with milder greens. You can also try very finely chopped broccoli or grated zucchini instead.
Can I use the microwave to speed up cooking?
Yes! Microwave the hollowed peppers for 4-5 minutes before stuffing to pre-cook them. This will reduce the oven time to about 15 minutes total.
What sides pair well with these stuffed peppers?
A simple green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables all complement these peppers nicely. For a lighter meal, they can be served on their own.
Follow me on Pinterest for more Delicious Quick Turkey & Spinach Stuffed Peppers. For other family-friendly options, check out my Easy Dinner Recipes For Family that are just as simple and nutritious!