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Easy Turkey Chili Stuffed Bell Peppers: 5-Ingredient Dinner

turkey chili stuffed bell peppers - featured image

A quick and comforting weeknight dinner that transforms leftover turkey chili into handheld stuffed bell peppers. This recipe uses simple ingredients to create a flavorful, protein-packed meal that is perfect for meal prep and family-friendly eating.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 large bell peppers (any color), tops cut off and seeds removed
  • 1 lb lean ground turkey (93% lean)
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 cup shredded Mexican blend or cheddar cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional toppings: fresh cilantro, sour cream, diced avocado

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Wash bell peppers, cut off tops, and scoop out seeds and white membranes. If peppers wobble, slice a tiny sliver off the bottom to create a flat base.
  3. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground turkey and break it up with a wooden spoon. Cook for 5-7 minutes until browned and crumbled. Drain excess fat if necessary.
  4. Add diced onion to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until translucent.
  5. Add minced garlic, chili powder, and cumin. Stir constantly for 30 seconds to bloom the spices.
  6. Add drained diced tomatoes and black beans to the skillet. Pour in chicken broth and simmer for 5 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper.
  7. Place hollowed-out peppers upright in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  8. Spoon the chili mixture into each pepper, packing it down gently but leaving room at the top for cheese.
  9. Sprinkle shredded cheese generously over the top of each pepper.
  10. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
  11. Remove foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until peppers are tender and cheese is bubbly and golden.
  12. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

If using leftover chili, simmer it down slightly before stuffing to prevent a soggy bottom. For a spicy kick, add diced jalapeño or use spicy chili powder. To ensure peppers stand upright, slice a thin layer off the bottom for a flat base. Cheese can be broiled for the last 1-2 minutes for a crispier topping, but watch closely to prevent burning.

Nutrition

Keywords: turkey chili, stuffed peppers, weeknight dinner, meal prep, healthy dinner, ground turkey recipes, comfort food, gluten-free option