Low carb stuffed bell peppers are a fantastic choice for a healthy, satisfying meal. Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. Slice off the tops of fresh bell peppers and remove the seeds. Sauté ground turkey, garlic, diced zucchini, mushrooms, and spinach together. Mix in some cheese for creaminess before stuffing the peppers. Top them with more cheese and bake for about 35-40 minutes. Each serving packs just 12g of carbs and 30g of protein! This simple yet versatile recipe can be modified with different ingredients. There's plenty more to explore for delicious twists on this dish!
Ingredients for Stuffed Peppers
Stuffed bell peppers are a delightful and nutritious dish that can easily be adapted to fit a low-carb lifestyle. Bursting with flavor and color, these vibrant peppers are filled with a savory mixture of protein and vegetables, making them a satisfying and healthy meal option. Not only do they come together quickly, but they also offer endless possibilities for customization to suit your taste preferences. This dish is perfect for a family dinner or meal prep, and it can be enjoyed warm or even as leftovers. Let's dive into the delicious world of low carb stuffed bell peppers!
Ingredient List
- 4 large bell peppers (any color)
- 1 lb ground turkey or chicken (or beef/plant-based option)
- 1 cup diced zucchini
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup mushrooms, diced
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes or salsa (optional)
Pro Cooking Tips
- Choosing Peppers: Opt for firm, fresh bell peppers with no blemishes for the best flavor and texture.
- Pre-cooking the Filling: Sauté your vegetables and protein mixture before stuffing to enhance flavors and ensure even cooking.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese like feta or pepper jack for a unique twist.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the stuffed peppers in advance and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days before baking.
- Freezing: After baking, allow the stuffed peppers to cool completely, then wrap and freeze for an easy meal later.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair your stuffed peppers with a side salad or serve over cauliflower rice for a complete meal.
Nutritional breakdown
| Nutritional Information | Per Serving (1 stuffed pepper) |
|---|---|
| Servings | 4 |
| Calories | 350 |
| Total Fat | 20g |
| Carbohydrates | 12g |
| Protein | 30g |
Additional Nutritional Notes: This recipe is low in carbohydrates, making it suitable for those following a ketogenic or low-carb diet. The inclusion of lean protein and nutritious vegetables contributes to a balanced meal that is also high in vitamins and minerals.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
- Add the ground turkey or chicken to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula.
- Stir in the diced zucchini, chopped spinach, and mushrooms. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
- Remove the skillet from heat and stir in half of the shredded cheese and the optional diced tomatoes or salsa.
- Stuff each bell pepper with the filling mixture and place them upright in a baking dish.
- Top the stuffed peppers with the remaining shredded cheese.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your delicious low carb stuffed bell peppers!
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the filling for extra heat.
- Mediterranean Style: Incorporate olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and feta cheese for a Mediterranean twist.
- Protein Swap: Use cooked quinoa or lentils as a plant-based protein alternative.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or cilantro for an aromatic flavor boost.
Now that you have all the ingredients and instructions, it's time to gather your cooking gear and enjoy the process of creating these delicious low carb stuffed bell peppers!
Conclusion
Ultimately, low carb stuffed bell peppers are a delicious and satisfying meal option that's easy to prepare. You've got the perfect blend of flavors and textures, all while keeping your carb intake in check. Whether you're enjoying them for dinner or meal prepping for the week, these stuffed peppers are sure to please. So why not give them a try? You'll love how simple and tasty they are – a win-win for your taste buds and your health!
