High Protein Unstuffed Peppers (Printable)

Satisfying unstuffed peppers featuring lean meat, beans, rice, peppers, and cheese for a nourishing main dish.

# Components:

→ Main Filling

01 - 1 pound ground turkey or lean ground beef
02 - 1 cup cooked brown rice or quinoa
03 - 1 green bell pepper, diced
04 - 1 red bell pepper, diced
05 - 1 small onion, diced
06 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
07 - 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, drained
08 - 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
09 - 1 cup corn, fresh, frozen, or canned

→ Spice Mix

10 - 1 teaspoon chili powder
11 - 1 teaspoon ground cumin
12 - 1 teaspoon paprika
13 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
14 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

→ Topping

15 - 1 cup shredded cheddar or cheese blend
16 - Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish

# Directions:

01 - Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
02 - In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground turkey or beef until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess fat if necessary.
03 - Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pan. Sauté for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring, until the onion is translucent.
04 - Stir in the diced green and red bell peppers. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until they begin to soften.
05 - Add the cooked brown rice or quinoa, drained diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes to combine flavors.
06 - Transfer the mixture into a baking dish or an oven-safe skillet, spreading it evenly.
07 - Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the filling.
08 - Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
09 - Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro before serving.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Uses simple fresh ingredients you probably have in your fridge and pantry already
  • Loaded with lean protein and fiber for lasting satisfaction
  • Ready in about 35 minutes for a fussfree weeknight main
  • Versatile for different diets by swapping grains or proteins
02 -
  • Packed with protein and fiber to keep you full for hours
  • Easy to adapt for gluten free and dairy free diets
  • Makes great leftovers for lunch or meal prep
03 -
  • Get that perfectly golden cheese crust by finishing the dish under the broiler for two minutes
  • Always drain canned tomatoes fully to prevent a watery filling
  • Taste and adjust spices before baking Sometimes a pinch of extra cumin brings everything to life

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