High Protein Unstuffed Peppers (Print Version)

A hearty, high protein twist on stuffed peppers with lean meat, fresh veggies, and spices.

# Ingredients:

→ Main Filling

01 - 1 lb (450 g) ground turkey or lean ground beef
02 - 1 cup cooked brown rice or quinoa
03 - 1 green bell pepper, diced
04 - 1 red bell pepper, diced
05 - 1 small onion, diced
06 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
07 - 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
08 - 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
09 - 1 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)

→ Spice Mix

10 - 1 tsp chili powder
11 - 1 tsp cumin
12 - 1 tsp paprika
13 - 1/2 tsp salt
14 - 1/4 tsp black pepper

→ Topping

15 - 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or a blend)
16 - Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish

# Steps:

01 - Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
02 - In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground turkey or beef until browned, breaking apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat if needed.
03 - Add diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until translucent.
04 - Stir in diced bell peppers and cook for an additional 5 minutes until softened.
05 - Add cooked brown rice or quinoa, drained diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well and cook for another 2–3 minutes.
06 - Transfer the mixture into a baking dish or oven-safe skillet, spreading it evenly.
07 - Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top.
08 - Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
09 - Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro before serving.

# Notes:

01 - Substitute quinoa for brown rice for a gluten-free option.
02 - Swap ground turkey for chicken, pork, or a plant-based meat alternative if desired.
03 - Great for meal prep: store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.