Turkey and Spinach Stuffed Peppers

Name: Turkey and Spinach Stuffed Peppers
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground turkey; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup cooked rice; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup marinara sauce; 4 large bell peppers (any color); 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)

Highlighted under: Healthy Light Meals

I absolutely love making Turkey and Spinach Stuffed Peppers as a wholesome weeknight meal. The combination of lean turkey and vibrant spinach not only makes it packed with flavor but also a colorful dish that brightens up the table. This recipe is so simple to prepare – I usually have everything on hand, making it a go-to for quick dinners. Plus, the peppers are such a fun vessel for the stuffing, allowing for personal touches with spices and toppings. You'll definitely want to give this one a try!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-20T15:14:19.052Z

When I first decided to try making stuffed peppers, I wanted to blend healthy eating with comfort. I experimented with ground turkey and fresh spinach, and the result was simply delicious! The turkey's mild flavor really shines through, paired perfectly with the earthy spinach and spices. Each bite is a delightful combination of textures and tastes that kept me coming back for more.

One tip I learned is to slightly pre-cook the peppers before stuffing them. This helps to soften their texture, ensuring they become tender while the turkey mixture stays perfectly juicy. I always sprinkle a bit of cheese on top for an irresistible finish, but you can easily skip this for a lighter option!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A hearty, nutritious filling with a delightful crunch from fresh peppers
Versatile recipe that can be customized with your favorite herbs and spices
A family-friendly meal that's fun to serve and eat

Tips for Perfectly Stuffed Peppers

When selecting bell peppers, look for ones that have a smooth skin and are firm to the touch. This ensures you have fresh, vibrant peppers that will hold their shape while baking. Feel free to mix colors for a visually appealing dish, but be cautious of any soft spots that could compromise the peppers' integrity during cooking. If you prefer, you can also use poblano or Anaheim peppers for a slightly different flavor profile.

It's important to properly steam the peppers before stuffing them. This step not only makes them tender but also helps them retain their shape while baking. If you're short on time, you can skip steaming, but keep in mind that they may require a few extra minutes in the oven to become fully tender. Just check them regularly to prevent overcooking.

Customizing Your Filling

The turkey and spinach filling can be easily customized to suit your taste. You might replace ground turkey with ground chicken or beef, or even make it vegetarian by using lentils or beans as the protein source. For added flavor, consider mixing in some diced tomatoes or a handful of shredded carrots for sweetness. I personally love adding some diced mushrooms, as they add a lovely umami flavor to the dish.

In terms of spices, don’t hesitate to adjust the seasoning to your preference. If you're a fan of heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños into the filling. Experimenting with different herbs, such as thyme or basil, can also enhance the depth of flavor. Just make sure you balance the flavors, so the hearty filling harmonizes well with the sweetness of the peppers.

Ingredients

For the Stuffing

1 lb ground turkey
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup cooked rice
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup marinara sauce

For the Peppers

4 large bell peppers (any color)
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Peppers

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. Lightly steam the peppers for about 5 minutes until they're slightly tender, then set aside.

Create the Filling

In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the diced onion and garlic until fragrant. Add the ground turkey and cook until browned. Stir in the chopped spinach, cooked rice, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well and let it cook for an additional 5 minutes.

Stuff the Peppers

Spoon the turkey mixture evenly into each bell pepper. Place them upright in a baking dish. Pour marinara sauce over the stuffed peppers, ensuring everything is evenly coated.

Bake

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. If using cheese, remove the foil and sprinkle it on top of the peppers, baking for an additional 5 minutes uncovered until melted and bubbly.

Serve

Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your delicious Turkey and Spinach Stuffed Peppers!

Pro Tips

Feel free to substitute the ground turkey with ground chicken or even a plant-based alternative for a vegetarian version of this dish. Adding spices like cumin or smoked paprika can elevate the flavor profile even more.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover stuffed peppers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for a couple of minutes or place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Covering them with foil will help retain moisture and prevent drying out. If you want to keep them crispy, heat them uncovered for a few minutes.

These stuffed peppers also freeze well. Allow them to cool completely before wrapping each pepper in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They will last up to three months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 30 minutes, adding extra marinara sauce if needed for moisture.

Serving Suggestions

These Turkey and Spinach Stuffed Peppers make a colorful centerpiece for any meal. They pair wonderfully with a simple side salad or a bowl of quinoa for a complete meal. If you’re hosting friends, consider serving them alongside a variety of dipping sauces such as ranch or hot sauce, allowing everyone to personalize their meal even further.

For extra flavor, you can top the stuffed peppers with fresh herbs like parsley or basil just before serving. A drizzle of balsamic glaze adds a gourmet touch, balancing the dish with its sweet and tangy flavor. I often serve mine with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for an extra burst of umami.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare the stuffed peppers in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and stuff the peppers a day ahead, then just bake them when you're ready to eat.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze stuffed peppers?

Yes, you can freeze them before baking. Wrap the stuffed peppers tightly and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months.

→ What variations can I try?

Feel free to add other veggies like mushrooms or zucchini to the filling, or swap marinara for salsa for a different flavor!