Introduction
Welcome to a delightful and wholesome dinner recipe that will fill your home with enticing aromas! Stuffed bell peppers are not just a feast for the eyes but also a burst of flavor in every bite. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or meal prep, combining bell peppers with a savory mix of ground turkey, quinoa, and vibrant vegetables. It’s healthy, hearty, and incredibly satisfying!
Ingredients
- 4 large bell peppers, any color
- 1 pound ground turkey (or beef)
- 1 cup cooked quinoa (or rice)
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn, frozen or canned
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is crucial for achieving perfectly cooked peppers.
- While the oven warms up, cut the tops off the bell peppers and carefully remove the seeds and membranes. Set them aside for now.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until they become soft and fragrant, filling your kitchen with a welcoming aroma.
- Add in the ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula. Be sure to drain any excess fat to keep the filling lean.
- Once the turkey is cooked, stir in the cooked quinoa, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s well combined and the flavors meld beautifully.
- Now it’s time to stuff those colorful bell peppers! Generously fill each pepper with the turkey mixture and place them upright in a baking dish.
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes to allow the flavors to marry and the peppers to become tender.
- After 25 minutes, carefully remove the foil and sprinkle a luscious amount of cheese on top of each stuffed pepper. Return them to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Once out of the oven, garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley before serving to add a pop of color and freshness. Enjoy your delightful creation!
Notes or Tips
If you’re looking to add some extra veggies, feel free to include chopped zucchini or spinach into the filling. This recipe is versatile, so you can customize it to your taste. For a spicy kick, add some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
Cooking Techniques
The key to perfect stuffed peppers lies in balancing the cooking times. Pre-baking them while covered helps tenderize the peppers without burning them. Adding cheese at the end allows it to melt beautifully, creating that golden, bubbly top that everyone loves!
FAQ
Can I make these ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffed peppers a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Just pop them in the oven when you’re ready to eat, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if they’re cold.
What can I serve with stuffed peppers? They pair wonderfully with a simple green salad or some crusty bread. You could also serve them with a side of guacamole or sour cream for a creamy contrast.
Conclusion
Stuffed bell peppers are more than just a meal; they’re an experience of comfort and satisfaction. Each bite showcases a delightful combination of textures and flavors that fill both the stomach and the heart. Perfect for a family dinner or meal prep, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. Happy cooking!