turkey ground beef recipe
The Best turkey ground beef recipe

Turkey Ground Beef Stuffed Peppers
A hearty, lean twist on stuffed peppers using ground turkey for a lighter yet flavorful meal. Perfect for a family dinner or meal prep.
🥘Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- ¼ cup tomato paste
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
👨🍳Directions
-
1
Preheat oven to 375°F. Cut the tops off 4 large bell peppers and remove seeds. Set aside. -
2
In a skillet, cook the ground turkey over medium heat until no longer pink, about 6–8 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed. -
3
Add diced onion and garlic to the turkey skillet. Cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Stir in cooked rice, tomato sauce, oregano, paprika, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 2 minutes. -
4
Mix the glaze ingredients in a small bowl and set aside. Spoon the turkey mixture into the hollowed-out peppers, filling them about halfway. -
5
Top each pepper with shredded cheese. Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish, pour the reserved glaze over the top, and cover with foil. Bake for 25 minutes. -
6
Remove foil and bake for another 10–12 minutes until peppers are tender and cheese is melted and bubbly. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
🔧Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Knife and cutting board
- Large skillet
- Baking dish
- Measuring cups
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Turkey Ground Beef Stuffed Peppers Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Turkey Ground Beef Stuffed Peppers
How do I ensure the turkey ground beef stays moist while cooking?
Use a nonstick pan or cast iron, and cook over medium-low heat. Add a splash of water or beef broth to the pan while browning the meat, then drain excess liquid before adding seasonings. Resting the meat for 5 minutes after cooking also helps retain moisture.
Can I substitute ground beef for turkey ground beef in this recipe?
While you can use ground beef, texture and flavor will differ significantly. For a closer match, opt for lean ground beef (90% lean or higher) and adjust seasonings to account for the richer taste. If you’re blending the meat with other ingredients, texture may still vary.
How long should I cook turkey ground beef for?
Cook turkey ground beef until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This usually takes 5–7 minutes on medium heat, depending on the pan’s size and thickness. Overcrowding the pan can also lower the temperature.
What’s the best way to season this turkey ground beef?
Season generously with salt and pepper, then add a mix of garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and a pinch of cumin (or your preferred blend). For extra flavor, finish with a drizzle of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce before serving.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, but cook the turkey ground beef fresh and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a little oil or broth until fully cooked—avoid microwaving to prevent drying out.
