These Easy Taco Stuffed Peppers are a delicious and healthy option for weeknight dinners. Not only are they packed with flavor, but they also offer flexibility for various occasions, from family meals to potlucks. With nutritious ingredients like ground turkey, black beans, and fresh veggies, these stuffed peppers can be made ahead of time or frozen for later use. Get ready to enjoy a meal that satisfies the whole family!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Healthy Twist: Using ground turkey instead of beef adds lean protein while keeping it delicious.
- Versatile Ingredients: Customize the filling with your favorite veggies or grains—quinoa works great too!
- Freezer-Friendly: Make a batch ahead of time and freeze them for an easy meal whenever you need it.
- Gluten-Free Option: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
Tools and Preparation
To make your cooking experience smooth, having the right tools is essential. Gather these items before starting your Easy Taco Stuffed Peppers.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet
- Baking dish (9×13)
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Mixing spoon
- Measuring spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet: Ideal for cooking the turkey and mixing in all the flavorful ingredients.
- Baking dish: Perfect for holding the stuffed peppers as they bake to perfection.
- Knife: A sharp knife ensures you can easily chop vegetables without hassle.
Ingredients
These easy-to-make Taco Stuffed Peppers are the perfect weeknight dinner that everyone will love! They are made a little healthier by using ground turkey in place of the beef and adding in other nutritious ingredients like onions, garlic, corn, and black beans. Make them ahead or even freeze them! Gluten-free!
For the Peppers
- 4 large bell peppers
- Olive oil spray or 2 teaspoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper – to taste
For the Filling
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil
- 1 lb lean ground turkey – I used 93/7
- 1 medium onion, chopped – about 1 cup
- 1/2 tablespoon minced garlic
- 2 tablespoons taco seasoning, I used homemade but store-bought is fine.
- 1 cup corn – Mexicorn or roasted corn are both great!
- 1 cup canned black beans – that have been drained and rinsed
- 2 cups tomato salsa – use homemade or store-bought
- 1 cup cooked brown rice – you could also use quinoa or white rice
For Toppings
- 1 cup shredded cheese – Mexican blend, or sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro
- Sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
- Limes
- Sliced avocado
- Salsa
How to Make Easy Taco Stuffed Peppers
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Spray a 9×13 baking dish with olive oil spray. Slice each bell pepper in half lengthwise and remove the ribs and seeds. Place the halved bell peppers in the baking dish. Brush or spray each pepper with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Bake for 15 minutes then remove from oven and let cool.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
While the peppers bake, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat with 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
Add the ground turkey to the skillet and break it up. Cook for about 2–3 minutes.
Sprinkle in 1 tablespoon of taco seasoning; toss well and cook for another 2 minutes.
Add chopped onions and minced garlic; cook until softened (about 2–3 minutes).
Mix in remaining taco seasoning along with corn and black beans; cook for an additional minute.
Stir in salsa and brown rice; let this mixture simmer on low heat for another 2 minutes before removing from heat.
Step 3: Stuff the Peppers
Divide the filling evenly among each bell pepper half. Top each one generously with shredded cheese. Return to oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes until cheese is melted.
Step 4: Serve Your Creation
Top your stuffed peppers with favorite toppings such as sour cream, salsa, chopped cilantro, lime wedges, and sliced avocado. Serve immediately and enjoy this tasty meal!
How to Serve Easy Taco Stuffed Peppers
These Easy Taco Stuffed Peppers are not only delicious but also versatile in how you can serve them. Here are some ideas to elevate your meal experience and impress your family and friends.
Top with Fresh Ingredients
- Sour Cream – A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess and balances the flavors.
- Sliced Avocado – Creamy avocado slices can enhance the dish with healthy fats.
- Chopped Cilantro – Fresh cilantro sprinkles bring a burst of flavor that complements the tacos.
Pair with Dips
- Guacamole – A side of guacamole can add a rich, creamy element that’s irresistible.
- Pico de Gallo – This fresh salsa made from tomatoes, onion, and lime adds zest to your peppers.
- Salsa Verde – The tanginess of salsa verde pairs well with the stuffed peppers for an extra kick.
Add a Side Salad
- Mexican Street Corn Salad – This refreshing salad combines corn, lime, and spices for a perfect match.
- Simple Green Salad – A mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette balances out the richness of the peppers.
How to Perfect Easy Taco Stuffed Peppers
To make your Easy Taco Stuffed Peppers even better, follow these helpful tips for perfecting your dish each time you prepare it.
- Choose firm bell peppers – Select fresh bell peppers that are firm and colorful for the best flavor and texture.
- Layer flavors in filling – Cook the turkey and vegetables until just tender to maximize their taste before stuffing.
- Don’t overstuff the peppers – Be careful not to overfill; this ensures they cook evenly and don’t spill out during baking.
- Experiment with toppings – Try different cheese blends or add jalapeños for extra heat to customize your meal.
Best Side Dishes for Easy Taco Stuffed Peppers
Complementing your Easy Taco Stuffed Peppers with the right side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to consider:
- Refried Beans – Creamy refried beans are a traditional Mexican side that pairs wonderfully.
- Spanish Rice – Fluffy Spanish rice flavored with tomatoes and spices is a classic accompaniment.
- Corn on the Cob – Grilled or boiled corn on the cob makes for a sweet and crunchy contrast.
- Chips and Salsa – A basket of tortilla chips served with salsa is always a crowd-pleaser.
- Cilantro Lime Rice – This zesty rice dish adds freshness and complements the stuffed peppers perfectly.
- Grilled Vegetables – Colorful grilled veggies add nutrition and flavor while keeping things light.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Easy Taco Stuffed Peppers can be a breeze, but certain mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:
Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning the filling properly can lead to bland peppers. Make sure to taste as you go and adjust with salt, pepper, and taco seasoning.
Overcooking the peppers: Baking the peppers too long may cause them to turn mushy. Bake them just until they start to soften before adding the filling.
Using cold ingredients: Starting with cold ingredients can prevent even cooking. Always let your filling cool slightly before stuffing the peppers.
Ignoring ingredient substitutions: Sticking rigidly to the recipe can limit creativity. Feel free to swap in different proteins or grains based on your preferences.
Not preheating the oven: Placing stuffed peppers in a cold oven can disrupt cooking times. Always preheat your oven for optimal results.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
- Allow peppers to cool completely before sealing them.
Freezing Easy Taco Stuffed Peppers
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Wrap each pepper tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
Reheating Easy Taco Stuffed Peppers
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and reheat for about 20 minutes.
- Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 2-3 minutes, or until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some questions readers often have about making Easy Taco Stuffed Peppers:
Can I use ground beef instead of turkey?
You can definitely substitute ground beef if you prefer! Just be mindful of the fat content; lean ground beef is recommended.
How do I customize my Easy Taco Stuffed Peppers?
Feel free to add extra veggies like zucchini or spinach, or swap out the cheese for dairy-free options!
What toppings pair well with Easy Taco Stuffed Peppers?
Sour cream, salsa, diced avocado, and fresh cilantro make great toppings!
Can I prepare these stuffed peppers ahead of time?
Yes! You can prep the filling and stuff the peppers a day ahead; just store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.
Final Thoughts
These Easy Taco Stuffed Peppers are not only delicious but also highly versatile! They make for a comforting weeknight dinner that everyone will enjoy. Customize them with your favorite ingredients or toppings for an even more delightful experience!
Easy Taco Stuffed Peppers
Easy Taco Stuffed Peppers are a delightful and nutritious choice for your weeknight dinners. These vibrant bell peppers, filled with a hearty mixture of lean ground turkey, black beans, corn, and spices, provide a satisfying and flavorful meal that the whole family will love. Not only are they quick to prepare—taking just 30 minutes—but they’re also customizable to suit your taste preferences. Whether you’re looking for a healthy dinner option or a dish to impress at potlucks, these stuffed peppers deliver on flavor and ease. Enjoy them fresh from the oven or make a batch ahead of time for busy days!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients
- 4 large bell peppers
- 1 lb lean ground turkey
- 1 cup canned black beans (drained and rinsed)
- 1 cup corn
- 2 cups tomato salsa
- 1 cup cooked brown rice
- Shredded cheese for topping
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Slice bell peppers in half lengthwise, remove seeds, and place cut-side up in a baking dish. Brush with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground turkey until browned. Add onions, garlic, taco seasoning, corn, black beans, salsa, and rice; stir until heated through.
- Stuff each pepper half with the turkey mixture and top with shredded cheese.
- Bake for an additional 15 minutes until cheese is melted.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed pepper (approximately 280g)
- Calories: 305
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
