Ground Turkey Taco Stuffed Peppers

Name: Ground Turkey Taco Stuffed Peppers
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 large bell peppers (any color); 1 pound ground turkey; 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 cup corn, frozen or canned; 1 packet taco seasoning; 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend); 1/2 cup onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Easy Quick Meals Inspiration

I love making Ground Turkey Taco Stuffed Peppers for a delicious weeknight meal. These peppers not only pack a punch with flavor but are also a great way to sneak in some veggies. Each bite is filled with seasoned ground turkey, black beans, and melty cheese, making them satisfying and nutritious. The colorful peppers add a lovely presentation that can impress anyone at the dinner table. Plus, they’re easy to prepare, and you can customize the fillings to your liking, which makes them a family favorite in our home.

Created by

Grace Walker

Last updated on 2026-02-23T22:29:36.612Z

When I first experimented with Ground Turkey Taco Stuffed Peppers, I wasn’t sure how well the flavors would meld together. However, combining the ground turkey with taco seasoning was a game changer. I also found that mixing in black beans added a nice texture and extra protein, making it a wholesome meal. Plus, the addition of cheese on top not only makes the dish more indulgent but allows for a delightful gooeyness that everyone loves.

The best part about these stuffed peppers is how customizable they are. I often change the veggies or beans based on what I have in the fridge, and it always turns out delicious. One tip I’ve learned is to slightly roast the bell peppers before stuffing them; this intensifies their flavor and ensures they’re perfectly tender. Trust me, you won't want to skip this step!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Healthy and hearty alternative to traditional tacos
Vibrant colors that make the dish visually appealing
Easily customizable for different tastes and dietary preferences

Choosing the Right Peppers

When selecting bell peppers for this recipe, opt for large, firm peppers with a slight sheen. The color doesn't just influence presentation; it also provides different flavor profiles. Red, orange, and yellow peppers tend to be sweeter, while green peppers have a more bitter taste. If you want to add a bit of heat, consider using poblano peppers or a combination of bell and spicy peppers.

To prepare the peppers for stuffing, make sure to cut a clean top off and remove all seeds and membranes. This ensures the filling flavors can fully penetrate the pepper. Treat them with care, as overly soft or bruised peppers may collapse during baking, impacting the final dish.

Timing is Key

Cooking the ground turkey properly is crucial to achieving the best flavor. Sauté the onion and garlic until translucent, about 2-3 minutes, before adding the turkey. This step builds a flavorful base. Cook the turkey until it’s no longer pink, which typically takes about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to break it into small pieces to ensure even cooking and absorption of the taco seasoning.

Baking times are also important. Covering the stuffed peppers with foil during the first stage of baking helps them steam and cook evenly without burning. If you like your cheese extra bubbly and slightly golden, removing the foil for the last 5-10 minutes is key. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking, which can lead to spongy textures.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Stuffed Peppers

4 large bell peppers (any color)
1 pound ground turkey
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup corn, frozen or canned
1 packet taco seasoning
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
1/2 cup onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Make sure to choose firm bell peppers for the best results.

Instructions

Preheat and Prepare Peppers

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes.

Cook the Filling

In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the chopped onion and garlic until translucent. Add the ground turkey, breaking it apart as it cooks, until browned. Stir in the taco seasoning, black beans, and corn.

Stuff the Peppers

Spoon the turkey mixture into each bell pepper, packing it down lightly. Top each pepper with shredded cheese.

Bake

Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish and add a splash of water to the bottom to help steam. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly.

Let the peppers cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider mixing in chopped jalapeños or using a spicy cheese blend. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator and reheat well.

Ingredient Substitutions

One of the beauties of this recipe lies in its flexibility. If you're looking for a lighter option, ground turkey can be swapped for ground chicken or even a plant-based meat alternative to cater to vegetarian diets. If you're watching sodium intake, consider using homemade taco seasoning or a low-sodium store-bought version.

If you want a different flavor dimension, experiment with adding diced tomatoes or jalapeños to the filling. Cheese choices can also vary; try pepper jack for a spicier kick or feta for a tangy twist. Even the beans can be replaced – black beans work well, but pinto or kidney beans add a unique flavor.

Make-Ahead Tips

These stuffed peppers are perfect for meal prep. You can fill and prepare them earlier in the day or even a day ahead. Just keep in mind to store them in the refrigerator, covered tightly to prevent drying out. When you're ready to bake, just pop them in the oven and adjust the cooking time slightly if baking from cold.

If you plan to freeze stuffed peppers, do so before baking. Wrap each pepper tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container. You can freeze them for up to three months. To bake from frozen, add about 10-15 minutes to the covered baking time. This makes weeknight dinners a breeze!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different meat?

Absolutely! Ground beef, chicken, or even plant-based meats work well in this recipe.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Leftover stuffed peppers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze these stuffed peppers?

Yes, you can freeze the uncooked stuffed peppers. Just thaw and bake as directed when you're ready.

→ What's a good side dish to serve with these?

A simple green salad or rice works great as a side. You could also serve them with tortilla chips and salsa.