Are you looking for a delicious and nutritious meal that won't break the calorie bank? Look no further than 1 half pepper Turkey Stuffed Peppers, clocking in at just 160 calories per serving.
These stuffed peppers are packed with protein and veggies, making them a satisfying meal to power you through your day. Each serving contains 19g of lean protein, 12g of carbs, and 5g of fiber.
In this article, we'll walk you through how to make these easy and tasty stuffed peppers, as well as share some tips and variations to customize them to your taste preferences.
A Nutritious Meal Under 200 Calories
With just 160 calories per serving, these stuffed peppers are a great option for those watching their calorie intake. They are also a good source of protein, fiber, and vitamins. To keep the calorie count low, we use half a pepper instead of a whole one, and fill it with a mixture of lean ground turkey and veggies.
Packed with Lean Protein and Vegetables
Protein is an essential nutrient for maintaining muscle mass and bone health, and also helps keep you feeling full and satisfied after meals. Each serving of these stuffed peppers provides 19g of lean protein from ground turkey. We also pack these peppers full of veggies like spinach, onion, and tomatoes to add flavor, fiber, and other important vitamins and minerals to your meal.
Easy to Prepare in 30 Minutes
Not only are these stuffed peppers healthy and delicious, but they are also quick and easy to make. You can have them on the table in just 30 minutes from start to finish, making them perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. To make the filling, simply brown the ground turkey with some garlic and onion, then add in the diced tomatoes, spinach, and spices. Stuff the filling into halved peppers, and bake in the oven until tender.
Perfect for Meal Prep and Leftovers
If you're looking for a meal that you can make ahead of time and enjoy throughout the week, these stuffed peppers are a great option. They can be easily stored in the fridge or freezer, and reheated for a quick and satisfying meal. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for a few minutes, or bake in the oven until heated through.
Gluten-Free and Low-Carb Option
For those with dietary restrictions, these stuffed peppers are both gluten-free and low-carb. Instead of using bread crumbs or rice to fill the peppers, we use finely chopped mushrooms to add bulk and texture to the filling without adding extra carbs.
How to Make Half Pepper Turkey Stuffed Peppers
Ready to make some delicious stuffed peppers? Here's what you'll need:
- 2 large bell peppers, halved and seeded
- 1 lb lean ground turkey
- 1/2 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/4 cup finely chopped mushrooms
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
To make the stuffed peppers, preheat your oven to 375°F. Spray a baking dish with nonstick spray, and place the halved peppers in the dish. In a large skillet, cook the ground turkey with the onion and garlic until browned. Add in the tomatoes, spinach, mushrooms, and spices, and cook for another 5-10 minutes, until the vegetables are tender. Spoon the filling into the pepper halves, and bake for 25-30 minutes, until the peppers are tender and the filling is heated through.
Variations and Add-Ins to Customize Your Stuffed Peppers
These stuffed peppers are versatile and customizable, so feel free to mix and match the veggies and spices to your taste preferences. Here are some ideas to get you started:
- Swap out the ground turkey for ground beef, chicken, or pork
- Add in some grated cheese for extra flavor
- Use different veggies like zucchini, mushrooms, or corn
- Spice it up with some chili powder or cumin
Tips and Tricks for Cooking Stuffed Peppers to Perfection
Cooking stuffed peppers can sometimes be tricky, as the peppers can be unevenly cooked or the filling can dry out. Here are some tips to ensure your stuffed peppers turn out perfectly every time:
- Choose peppers that are firm and evenly shaped, with a flat bottom to stand upright in the baking dish
- Precook the peppers by boiling them for a few minutes before stuffing, to soften them up and speed up the cooking process
- Cover the peppers with foil while baking to trap in moisture and prevent the filling from drying out
- Add a little broth or tomato sauce to the bottom of the baking dish to keep the peppers from sticking
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
These stuffed peppers make a great main course on their own, or can be paired with a side salad or roasted veggies for a complete meal. Here are some ideas for serving and pairing:
- Serve topped with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley
- Pair with a side of roasted sweet potatoes or broccoli
- Top with some avocado or guacamole for a healthy fat boost
- Serve with some salsa or hot sauce for added flavor
Why Half Pepper Turkey Stuffed Peppers Should be on Your Weekly Meal Plan
Not only are these stuffed peppers healthy, delicious, and easy to make, but they also make a great addition to your weekly meal plan. Here are some reasons why:
- They are packed with lean protein and vegetables to keep you full and satisfied
- They are low in calories and carbs, making them a good option for weight loss or weight maintenance
- They can be made ahead of time and stored for convenient meals throughout the week
- They are versatile and customizable, so you can switch up the flavors and ingredients to keep things interesting
Take the guesswork out of meal prep with these easy and tasty stuffed peppers.
Frequently Asked Questions About 160-Calorie Turkey Stuffed Peppers
1. What are the ingredients in this recipe?
The ingredients are half a pepper, lean ground turkey, quinoa, diced onion, diced celery, diced carrot, garlic, tomato paste, low-sodium chicken broth, and a variety of spices.
2. How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe makes one serving, with each stuffed pepper half clocking in at approximately 160 calories.
3. Is this recipe suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
This recipe is gluten-free, and can be made dairy-free by omitting any cheese garnish. It can also be adapted to be low-carb or keto-friendly by substituting cauliflower rice for the quinoa.
4. Can I freeze these stuffed peppers?
Yes, these stuffed peppers can be frozen for up to three months. Simply wrap each individual pepper in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then place in a freezer-safe container.
5. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, this recipe can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.