Turkey and Spinach Stuffed Peppers

Name: Turkey and Spinach 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; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup cooked quinoa; 1 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp paprika; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup tomato sauce

Highlighted under: International Dish Inspirations

I absolutely love making Turkey and Spinach Stuffed Peppers for a weeknight dinner. The combination of tender peppers, savory ground turkey, and fresh spinach creates a dish that’s not only flavorful but also packed with nutrients. I appreciate that it’s easy to prepare and allows me to use whatever vegetables I have on hand. Plus, the vibrant colors of the peppers make this dish visually appealing, making it perfect for impressing guests or simply treating my family to a wholesome meal.

Created by

Tina

Last updated on 2026-02-20T13:41:18.713Z

In my quest to create a nutritious yet delicious meal, I stumbled upon this delightful recipe for Turkey and Spinach Stuffed Peppers. Not only do the peppers hold all the fantastic flavors, but they also bring a satisfying crunch to every bite. I found that baking them allows the flavors to meld perfectly while keeping the peppers firm without becoming mushy.

Another tip I discovered is to mix in a bit of cheese towards the end of the baking process. This creates a delightful gooey layer on top, enhancing both the taste and texture. Making this dish has become a weekly tradition in my kitchen!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Hearty turkey filling infused with spices and fresh vegetables
Nutritious spinach adds both flavor and vibrant color
Easy to customize with your favorite ingredients

Choosing the Right Peppers

When selecting bell peppers for this recipe, look for peppers that are firm, shiny, and without any blemishes. The size is also important; larger peppers will hold more filling and provide a better balance between the sweet pepper and the savory stuffing. If you're feeling adventurous, consider using poblano or anaheim peppers for a slight smoky flavor. These varieties offer a nice kick, perfect for those who enjoy a little heat.

Don't hesitate to mix and match the colors of the peppers! Using a variety of colors not only enhances the dish's visual appeal but also provides different nutrient profiles. For instance, red peppers are sweeter and richer in vitamin C than green ones. Mixing them can create a delightful flavor experience while ensuring you're getting a range of vitamins.

If you're concerned about the peppers becoming too soft during baking, consider slightly blanching them in boiling water for about 3-5 minutes before stuffing. This technique tenderizes them, making sure they retain some crunch and structure, which contrasts nicely with the soft filling.

Mastering the Stuffing Technique

When preparing the stuffing, make sure not to overcrowd the skillet; otherwise, it can lead to uneven cooking. A well-heated pan allows the turkey to brown properly, enhancing its flavor. Cook the onion and garlic until translucent, then add the turkey to ensure it reaches a golden color before introducing other ingredients. This step is crucial for developing the filling’s rich, robust flavor.

The quinoa in this recipe is not only a great source of protein but also adds a wonderful nutty texture. If you don’t have quinoa, consider using cooked rice or even couscous as a substitute. Each of these options changes the texture and flavor slightly, so choose based on your preferences. Just remember, if you use a grain that absorbs more moisture, you may need to adjust the amount of tomato sauce accordingly.

After stuffing the peppers, gently press down on the filling to ensure it's compact. This prevents the stuffing from spilling out during cooking. Drizzling tomato sauce over the top not only adds moisture but also enhances the flavor. If you enjoy a little extra sauce, don't hesitate to add more—just ensure it's well distributed for even cooking.

Ingredients

For the Stuffed Peppers

4 large bell peppers (any color)
1 lb ground turkey
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup cooked quinoa
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp paprika
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup tomato sauce

Prepare Your Ingredients

Instructions

Cooking Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a baking dish by lightly greasing it.

Prepare the Peppers

Slice the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. Set 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. Stir in the chopped spinach, cooked quinoa, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper, cooking until the spinach has wilted.

Stuff the Peppers

Fill each bell pepper with the turkey and spinach mixture. Place them upright in the prepared baking dish and pour tomato sauce over each stuffed pepper.

Bake

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil, sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top, and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serve

Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious Turkey and Spinach Stuffed Peppers!

Enjoy Your Meal!

Pro Tips

Feel free to experiment with other ingredients like black beans, corn, or even different types of cheese to customize the filling to your taste.

Storing and Reheating

Cooked stuffed peppers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, making them a great option for meal prep. To store, simply place them in an airtight container. If you want to prepare them ahead of time, assemble the stuffed peppers without baking them, then cover and refrigerate. When you're ready to cook, add 5-10 minutes to the baking time to ensure they are heated through.

For freezing, you can either freeze them before or after baking. If freezing unbaked, wrap each pepper tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag. When you're ready to enjoy, bake straight from the freezer, adding extra time to the cooking process—about 15-20 minutes. If baked already, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months and reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed thoroughly.

To reheat, place the peppers in a baking dish with a splash of water or extra tomato sauce to keep them moist. Cover with foil and heat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. This gentle reheating method will help maintain the peppers' texture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

These Turkey and Spinach Stuffed Peppers pair beautifully with a light salad or a side of steamed vegetables for a complete meal. A simple mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty filling. You can also serve them with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for added flavor and presentation.

For a fun twist, consider serving the stuffed peppers on a bed of zesty rice or couscous. This not only elevates the dish but also complements the stuffing beautifully. You might experiment with adding some lemon zest and herbs to the grain to enhance the overall taste profile.

If you're serving guests, consider garnishing with slices of avocado or a sprinkle of chili flakes for an extra pop of color and flavor. This simple touch can turn an ordinary dish into a showstopper, perfect for impressing friends and family during a dinner gathering.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the filling ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just stuff the peppers and bake them when you're ready.

→ What other vegetables can I use?

You can use zucchini, mushrooms, or any other vegetables you like in the filling.

→ Can I freeze the stuffed peppers?

Absolutely! Assemble the peppers and freeze them before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time when cooking from frozen.

→ How do I store leftovers?

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