Save This hearty high protein unstuffed peppers dish delivers all the flavor of traditional stuffed peppers with a fraction of the work. Tender ground turkey or beef is sautéed with fresh bell peppers, onion, and savory spices, then mixed with wholesome grains and topped with melty cheese. Whether you need a quick weeknight dinner or a meal prep solution for busy days, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table.
When I first tested this for my family's Sunday meal prep, it vanished by Monday afternoon. The onepan, allinone comfort makes it a recipe I turn to again and again, especially when peppers are in season.
Ingredients
- Ground turkey or lean ground beef: Provides hearty protein for staying power Choose bright pink turkey or deep red beef for freshness
- Cooked brown rice or quinoa: Adds whole grain texture and keeps the filling light and nourishing Look for fluffy grains that are not mushy
- Green bell pepper: Offers that classic stuffed pepper flavor and crunch Select firm, shiny peppers with deep color
- Red bell pepper: Sweetness balances the savory filling and adds color Go for smooth skin and a solid feel
- Small onion: Builds the flavor base and brings everything together Pick onions that feel heavy and are free from soft spots
- Garlic: Brings aromatic depth and a rich backdrop Use plump, firm cloves
- Diced tomatoes: Give juiciness and tang to the filling Choose high quality canned tomatoes or ripe, fresh ones if you prefer
- Black beans: Boost protein and fiber for fullness Use canned beans with no added salt or cook your own for best flavor
- Corn: Offers little pops of sweetness and color Fresh or frozen kernels tend to have the best flavor
- Chili powder: Adds gentle heat and warmth Use a fresh spice blend for fullest flavor
- Cumin: Gives that earthy, signature stuffed pepper taste Buy whole cumin seeds and grind them yourself if you can
- Paprika: Rounds out the spices with a mild smokiness Try Spanish or smoked varieties for bolder flavor
- Salt: Essential for bringing all the flavors together Choose fine sea salt or kosher salt for even seasoning
- Black pepper: Adds a mild kick and freshness Freshly cracked is best
- Shredded cheese: Melts over the top for that signature savory crust Choose cheddar or a blend of melty cheeses grate your own for best results
- Fresh parsley or cilantro: Offers a burst of freshness to finish Use bright green, leafy herbs and chop just before serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit making sure the rack is in the center position so your dish bakes evenly
- Brown the Meat:
- In a large skillet over mediumhigh heat add the ground turkey or beef Break it into small crumbles with a wooden spoon Cook until thoroughly browned about five to seven minutes Drain any excess fat to keep the dish light
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pan with the meat Stir often and cook for three to four minutes until the onion is soft and translucent This step unlocks sweetness and depth for the whole dish
- Soften the Peppers:
- Toss in the diced green and red bell peppers Stir and cook everything together for another five minutes The peppers should be bright and just tender which guarantees flavor and preserves a slight crunch
- Combine the Filling:
- Add the cooked brown rice or quinoa the drained diced tomatoes black beans corn chili powder cumin paprika salt and black pepper Stir well to blend all the colors and textures Let this mixture cook for two to three more minutes The flavors will start to meld
- Layer in Baking Dish:
- Transfer the filling to a baking dish or keep everything in an ovensafe skillet Spread the mixture evenly so the cheese covers every scoop later
- Top with Cheese and Bake:
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the filling Put the dish in the preheated oven Bake for twenty to twenty five minutes until the cheese melts and begins to bubble with golden spots
- Garnish and Serve:
- Take the dish out of the oven Let it rest a few minutes Top generously with chopped fresh parsley or cilantro before serving This bright finish wakes up every bite
Save When I discovered how quickly brown rice soaks up all the bell pepper and tomato flavor I started using it in other skillet meals too Family memory is my kids sneaking bits of the cheesy topping before dinner made it to the table
Storage Tips
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days This dish also freezes beautifully Spoon portions into freezer safe bags or containers and label with a date To reheat thaw overnight in the fridge then warm gently in the oven or microwave
Ingredient Substitutions
Try ground chicken or a plant based meat alternative for a different protein twist Quinoa makes the dish gluten free and adds another layer of texture If you like extra heat swap in poblano peppers or use pepper jack cheese on top
Serving Suggestions
I love serving this with a crisp green salad and a dollop of Greek yogurt for extra creaminess You can scoop the filling into roasted zucchini boats for a veggieforward meal or wrap leftovers in tortillas for next day burritos
Save This easy skillet classic brings everyone to the table and tastes just as good the next day. Try customizing it with your family’s favorite ingredients for a weeknight dinner win.
Recipe FAQ
- → What protein options can I use?
You can choose ground turkey, lean beef, chicken, pork, or plant-based meat alternatives for a suitable fit.
- → Is this suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, simply swap brown rice with quinoa for a naturally gluten-free version of this dish.
- → How can I make it dairy-free?
Use your favorite dairy-free shredded cheese or omit the cheese topping completely before baking.
- → Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! Store cooled portions in airtight containers and freeze for up to three months with great results.
- → Which vegetables work best in this meal?
The combination of red and green bell peppers, corn, black beans, tomatoes, and onions delivers vibrant flavor and color.
- → Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the entire dish, cover tightly, and refrigerate until ready to bake—perfect for meal planning.