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Turkey and Quinoa Stuffed Peppers

Healthy Turkey and Quinoa Stuffed Peppers are packed with lean protein and flavor—a comforting, gluten-free meal perfect for sharing.
Prep Time 35 minutes
Cook Time 43 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup quinoa
  • 2 cups chicken stock (for cooking quinoa)
  • 6 bell peppers (any color—mix it up for a colorful dish!)(I used red yellow and orange)
  • 1 lb lean ground turkey
  • 1 can (14 oz) fire-roasted diced tomatoes, drained
  • 1 can (6 oz) can tomato paste
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 4 cloves minced garlic (or 2 teaspoons pre-chopped garlic)
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp Italian seasoning
  • 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • ½ cup shredded Italian cheese (Mozzarella or an Italian blend)
  • Salt & pepper to taste

Method
 

Cook the Quinoa
  1. Cook quinoa in chicken stock on the stovetop or in an Instant Pot.
  2. Stovetop Method: Combine quinoa and chicken stock in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-17 minutes, until all the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
  3. Instant Pot Shortcut: Add quinoa and broth to the Instant Pot. Cook on high pressure for 8 minutes, then do a quick release. So easy!
Prep the Peppers
  1. Slice tops off peppers, clean out seeds, and stand them upright in a greased baking dish. Chop up the tops for use in the filling.
Make the Filling
  1. In a large pan over medium heat, sauté the chopped onion, garlic, and diced pepper tops for 2-3 minutes. If the mixture starts to stick, add a splash of water—no need for extra oil!
  2. Add the ground turkey, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Cook until the turkey is browned and fully cooked.
  3. Stir in the diced tomatoes and tomato paste. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens.
  4. Add the cooked quinoa and mix well. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Want extra flavor? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick!
Stuff and Bake
  1. Spoon the filling into each pepper. Cover with foil and bake at 350°F for 30 minutes. Remove foil, top with cheese, and bake 5 more minutes until melted.

Video