Turkey and Spinach Stuffed Peppers

Name: Turkey and Spinach Stuffed Peppers
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 stuffed peppers
Ingredients: 4 large bell peppers (any color); 1 lb ground turkey; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup cooked rice or quinoa; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup marinara sauce (plus more for serving); 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)

Highlighted under: Nourishing Comfort Meals

When I first tried making Turkey and Spinach Stuffed Peppers, I was amazed by how simple yet delicious they turned out. The combination of savory ground turkey, fresh spinach, and zesty herbs created a dish packed with flavor and nutrition. I love the way the peppers retain their crunch while providing a colorful, edible bowl for the filling. It's a fantastic meal prep option and makes for a lovely presentation at dinner parties too! I can't wait for you to try this satisfying recipe that has become a family favorite.

Created by

Sandra

Last updated on 2026-02-20T13:41:18.893Z

During one of my meal prep sessions, I decided to experiment with stuffed peppers, and that's when Turkey and Spinach Stuffed Peppers came to life. I wanted a dish that was both hearty and healthy, so I opted for ground turkey to keep it lean while loading it with spinach for added nutrients and flavor. The scent as they baked was simply incredible, filling my kitchen with warmth and comfort.

I learned that blanching the peppers briefly before stuffing them keeps them vibrant and tender, enhancing the overall texture of the dish. This recipe has since become one of my go-tos — not just for its taste but for how easy it is to customize based on what I have on hand. Try adding some cheese on top for a delightful melty finish!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Nutritious and packed with protein from the turkey and greens
Customizable; easily adapt to your favorite fillings
Colorful presentation that's perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining

The Role of Peppers

Bell peppers serve as a vibrant and nutritious vessel for your filling in this recipe. Their natural sweetness contrasts beautifully with the savory turkey and zesty marinade, elevating the overall dish. When selecting peppers, look for ones that are firm and unblemished, as this ensures they hold their shape during baking. Any color will work, so choose your favorite or mix and match for a colorful presentation.

During cooking, the peppers soften but still retain a satisfying crunch. They should be tender enough to eat comfortably but not mushy. If you prefer a slightly sweeter flavor, consider roasting the peppers for an additional 10-15 minutes before stuffing. This extra step caramelizes their sugars, creating a deliciously sweet base for your turkey and spinach filling.

Perfecting the Filling

The combination of ground turkey and fresh spinach is not only nutritious but also adds a lovely green color to the filling, making it visually appealing. Ground turkey is a lean protein that soaks up the flavors of your seasonings. If you're looking for a richer taste, you can substitute part of the turkey with Italian sausage or a combination of beef and turkey. Just remember to adjust the seasoning to prevent it from becoming too salty.

When cooking the filling, ensure the turkey is fully browned to develop deep flavors. The onions should turn translucent, which usually takes about 3-5 minutes, while the garlic should be added towards the end to prevent burning. Adding spinach last keeps its vibrant color and nutrients intact. Once combined, taste the filling before stuffing, adjusting with salt or pepper as needed for your palate.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your Turkey and Spinach Stuffed Peppers:

Ingredients

4 large bell peppers (any color)
1 lb ground turkey
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup cooked rice or quinoa
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup marinara sauce (plus more for serving)
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)

Make sure to adjust any ingredients based on your personal preferences or dietary needs!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your delicious Turkey and Spinach Stuffed Peppers:

Prepare the Peppers

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. If needed, trim the bottoms so they can stand upright.

Cook the Filling

In a skillet over medium heat, add the ground turkey, onion, and garlic. Cook until the turkey is browned and no longer pink. Add the spinach and cook until wilted. Stir in the cooked rice, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and marinara sauce.

Stuff the Peppers

Fill each pepper with the turkey and spinach mixture, pressing it down to pack it well. If using, top with shredded mozzarella cheese.

Bake

Place the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish. Add a little water to the bottom of the dish and cover with foil. Bake for 25-30 minutes. Remove the foil for the last 5-10 minutes to brown the cheese, if using.

Once baked, let cool slightly before serving.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, you can add spices like cumin or paprika to the filling. Additionally, experiment with different cheeses or add some chopped tomatoes into the mixture for added moisture.

Make-Ahead Tips

You can prepare the filling for Turkey and Spinach Stuffed Peppers in advance, making this recipe a great option for meal prepping. Simply cook the filling as directed and let it cool. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can also stuff the peppers and refrigerate them unbaked, which helps the flavors meld together even more.

For long-term storage, consider freezing the stuffed peppers. Wrap each individual pepper in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then bake them as directed. Adjust the baking time as frozen peppers may need an extra 10-15 minutes in the oven.

Serving Suggestions

These stuffed peppers are delightful on their own, but you can elevate them with simple accompaniments. A dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream adds creaminess and balances the flavors. You could also serve them with a side salad or roasted vegetables for added texture and nutrition. For a more Mediterranean twist, drizzle with tzatziki sauce or serve with crusty whole-grain bread.

If you're looking to spice things up, consider topping your stuffed peppers with sliced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes before baking. You could also experiment with different cheeses; feta cheese can add a tangy flavor that complements the spinach beautifully. The versatility of this dish makes it easy to cater to varied tastes and dietary preferences.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of meat?

Absolutely! Ground chicken or even a plant-based meat substitute works great in this recipe.

→ Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the stuffed peppers in advance and refrigerate them. Just bake them when you're ready to serve.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They can be reheated in the oven or microwave.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as the rice used is gluten-free. You can also substitute the rice with quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.