Introduction

High Protein Unstuffed Peppers are a colorful, hearty twist on the classic stuffed peppers recipe. Packed with lean ground turkey or beef, beans, and grains, this dish offers a satisfying protein boost in every bite. It’s simple to prepare and perfect for a nutritious weeknight meal.

A close-up of a stuffed bell pepper dish served in a white bowl. The pepper is green and cut open, filled with a mix of cooked rice, black beans, corn, and small chopped tomatoes. The rice mixture has a reddish color from seasoning. On top of the filling, there is melted yellow cheese sprinkled with small green parsley leaves. The background shows a white marbled surface, softly blurred. The lighting highlights the textures and colors of the food, making it look fresh and tasty. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 pound ground turkey or lean ground beef
1 cup cooked brown rice or quinoa
2 large green bell peppers, chopped
2 large red bell peppers, chopped
1 small onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes or 2 cups fresh diced tomatoes
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup corn, frozen or canned
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground turkey or beef until browned and cooked through.
Step 3: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
Step 4: Stir in the cooked brown rice or quinoa, diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, chili powder, cumin, and paprika. Mix well and cook for a few minutes until heated through.
Step 5: Cut the bell peppers in half and remove the seeds and membranes. Arrange the pepper halves cut-side up in a baking dish.
Step 6: Spoon the meat and rice mixture evenly into each pepper half, filling them generously.
Step 7: Top each filled pepper with shredded cheese.
Step 8: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Step 9: Remove from the oven and let the peppers cool slightly before serving.

Tips & Variations

Use firm, shiny bell peppers for the best texture and flavor.
Substitute ground turkey with lean ground beef or a plant-based alternative for a vegetarian option.
Add extra veggies like diced zucchini or mushrooms for more fiber and nutrients.
Top with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for a burst of freshness.
For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños.

Storage

Store leftover unstuffed peppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, freeze the peppers wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn. Reheat in the oven until warmed through, maintaining the melted cheese and flavors.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a stuffed green bell pepper filled with a mix of cooked rice, black beans, corn, and bits of red bell pepper, topped with melted yellow cheese and small green herb leaves. The green pepper is cut in half and placed in a white bowl on a white marbled surface. The textures show soft rice and beans with gooey, slightly browned cheese on top, and the colors contrast brightly with the red pepper pieces and green herbs scattered around. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

What are High Protein Unstuffed Peppers?

High Protein Unstuffed Peppers are a flavorful dish featuring all the traditional stuffed pepper ingredients cooked together without filling the pepper shells individually. This method makes preparation quicker while still delivering a protein-packed, nutritious meal.

How can I increase the protein content?

Boost protein by adding extra lean meat, legumes like black beans, or even plant-based protein powders. Swapping ground beef for turkey or adding more beans both enhance flavor and nutrition.

Can I make High Protein Unstuffed Peppers ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mixture in advance, store it in the refrigerator, and assemble the peppers when ready. This dish also freezes well for convenient future meals.

What should I serve with High Protein Unstuffed Peppers?

They pair well with fresh green salads, whole grains like quinoa or brown rice, or protein-rich sides like breakfast protein biscuits. A drizzle of hot sauce or fresh herbs can also complement the dish.

Are High Protein Unstuffed Peppers suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely. Their simple preparation and balanced nutrition make them ideal for portioned meal prep, ensuring you have a satisfying meal ready anytime.

Can I adapt the recipe for dietary restrictions?

Definitely. This recipe is versatile and can be tailored for vegetarian, gluten-free, or other dietary preferences by substituting ingredients accordingly.