Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Turkey Taco Stuffed Peppers are a wholesome, flavorful twist on classic tacos—packed into vibrant bell peppers instead of tortillas. This dish is a protein-rich, low-carb option perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. With seasoned ground turkey, taco spices, and melty cheese, these stuffed peppers bring the bold flavors of tacos with a healthy and satisfying presentation.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

bell peppers (any color)ground turkeyolive oiloniongarliccloveblack beanscorn (fresh, frozen, or canned)diced tomatoestaco seasoningcheddar cheesemozzarella cheese (optional)fresh cilantrolime juice

directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.

Slice the bell peppers in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes.

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté diced onion until translucent.

Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Add ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks.

Stir in taco seasoning, diced tomatoes, black beans, and corn. Let it simmer for 5 minutes to blend the flavors.

Remove from heat and stir in half of the shredded cheese.

Spoon the turkey mixture evenly into each bell pepper half.

Place stuffed peppers in the prepared baking dish and cover with foil.

Bake for 30 minutes, then remove foil and sprinkle remaining cheese on top.

Return to oven and bake uncovered for another 10 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.

Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 6 stuffed pepper halves (3 whole peppers).
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes

Variations

Swap ground turkey for ground beef or shredded chicken for a different protein.

Add cooked quinoa or rice to the filling for a heartier version.

Use spicy taco seasoning for a kick of heat.

Top with sour cream or avocado slices for added creaminess.

Mix in chopped spinach or kale for extra greens.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or microwave for 1-2 minutes until heated through.
These peppers can also be frozen for up to 2 months—wrap tightly and thaw overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use a different meat?

Yes, ground beef, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles can be used.

Do I need to precook the peppers?

No, baking them in the oven with foil will soften them perfectly.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the stuffed peppers and refrigerate before baking. Add 5-10 extra minutes to the baking time if cold.

Are these spicy?

They’re mildly spiced, but you can control the heat by adjusting the taco seasoning or adding hot sauce.

Can I skip the cheese?

Yes, the recipe still works without cheese, or you can use a dairy-free alternative.

Are these keto-friendly?

Yes, as long as you skip beans and corn or use low-carb alternatives.

How do I prevent soggy peppers?

Avoid overfilling with wet ingredients and bake uncovered at the end to reduce moisture.

Do kids like this?

Most kids enjoy the taco flavor and cheesy topping—just adjust spices for milder taste.

What type of bell pepper is best?

Red, yellow, and orange are sweeter; green peppers are slightly bitter but still work well.

Can I grill them?

Yes, pre-cook the filling and grill stuffed peppers over medium heat with foil until tender.

Conclusion

Turkey Taco Stuffed Peppers are a flavorful, nutrient-packed dinner option that blends the comfort of tacos with the freshness of bell peppers. Easy to customize and perfect for leftovers, this dish is a go-to for healthy meals that don’t sacrifice flavor. Give them a try for a colorful, satisfying twist on taco night.