Low-Carb Turkey Stuffed Peppers
November is here, and with it comes Thanksgiving vibes! If you’re looking for a low-carb version of a traditional Thanksgiving favorite, these Low-Carb Turkey Stuffed Peppers are for you! This recipe combines the juicy flavors of seasoned ground turkey with the satisfying crunch of roasted bell peppers, bringing all the cozy flavors of fall right to your table. It’s a hearty meal that’s perfect for anyone aiming to keep carbs low while still enjoying a warm, comforting dish.
This recipe is not only delicious but also quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or as a make-ahead meal for family gatherings. It takes less than an hour to have these stuffed peppers ready, so you can spend more time enjoying the fall festivities and less time in the kitchen. Plus, the use of lean ground turkey adds a boost of protein, making it a filling and nutritious option.
If you’re hosting a Friendsgiving or simply want a wholesome meal that brings fall flavors to life, these Low-Carb Turkey Stuffed Peppers won’t disappoint! They are also versatile, allowing for fun twists, such as adding more spices, extra veggies, or even some cheesy goodness. So, grab your apron, gather the ingredients, and let’s bring a taste of Thanksgiving to your dinner plate!
If you’re planning a Friendsgiving potluck, these stuffed peppers are a great option. You can easily make a large batch and let everyone have their own pepper!
Ingredients for Low-Carb Turkey Stuffed Peppers
- 4 large bell peppers (red, yellow, or green)
- 1 lb (450g) ground turkey
- 1 cup chopped onions
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
About the Ingredients
This recipe keeps things simple while packing a punch with flavor. The ground turkey provides lean protein, which makes it a healthy and satisfying option. Bell peppers are the perfect low-carb vessel for stuffing, adding a slightly sweet and roasted flavor once baked. The cheese brings in the creaminess that everyone loves, while the Italian seasoning adds a burst of herbaceous goodness.
The prep time is around 20 minutes, and the total cooking time, including baking, is 45 minutes. This makes it a practical recipe even for busy weeknights or for preparing ahead and reheating later.
Did You Know? Turkey is not only lean but also rich in selenium, which supports immune health—perfect for the colder months!
Method of Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the bell peppers by slicing off the tops and removing the seeds and membranes. If you prefer softer peppers, you can blanch them in boiling water for 3-4 minutes before stuffing.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic, cooking until they’re soft and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the ground turkey to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Once browned, add the diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Fill each bell pepper with the turkey mixture, pressing down to pack it in well. Sprinkle the tops with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Arrange the peppers in a baking dish, making sure they’re standing upright. If needed, trim the bottoms slightly to make them sit flat.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted and golden.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot!
Bringing More Flavor to the Table
These Low-Carb Turkey Stuffed Peppers are easily customizable! Here are some ideas to elevate this recipe:
- Spice it up: Add a diced jalapeño or a dash of cayenne pepper to the turkey mixture for a spicier version.
- Add more veggies: Mix in some chopped spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms with the turkey filling for an extra veggie boost.
- Go cheesy: If you’re a cheese lover, try adding some cream cheese to the turkey mix for an even creamier filling.
- Meal prep tip: You can prepare the turkey mixture a day in advance, refrigerate it, and stuff the peppers when you’re ready to bake. It’s an excellent time-saver for those busy evenings!
Health Benefits of Low-Carb Turkey Stuffed Peppers
- Lean protein: Turkey is a fantastic source of lean protein, making this dish ideal for those who are following a low-carb or ketogenic diet. It helps keep you full and supports muscle growth.
- Loaded with vitamins: Bell peppers are rich in vitamins A, C, and E, which are beneficial for skin health, immune support, and overall well-being.
- Low in carbs: Each pepper contains minimal carbohydrates, making this dish perfect for those who want to manage their carb intake without sacrificing flavor.
Curious about more keto-friendly recipes? Check out our Keto Pumpkin Cheesecake! It’s the perfect low-carb dessert to finish off your meal and bring in more of those November vibes.
Thanksgiving Twist
If you want to add more of a Thanksgiving feel to this recipe, consider swapping the ground turkey for leftover turkey meat from your Thanksgiving feast. Just chop it up finely and add it to the skillet along with the other ingredients. It’s a fantastic way to use up leftovers while keeping the dish low-carb and delicious.
Wrapping It Up with Stuffed Goodness
There’s something so satisfying about a warm, cheesy stuffed pepper straight from the oven. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight meal, prepping it for a fall gathering, or just wanting to bring the comfort of Thanksgiving to your everyday cooking, these Low-Carb Turkey Stuffed Peppers are sure to be a hit. Plus, they make fantastic leftovers!
Want to try a dessert that pairs perfectly with these stuffed peppers? Head over to our Keto Pumpkin Cheesecake recipe—it’s a creamy, guilt-free treat that’s perfect for the season!