If you’re looking for a fun, low-carb way to switch up taco night, these Taco Stuffed Pepper Rings are it!
Packed with ground turkey, melted cheese, and warm taco spices, all nestled inside colorful bell pepper rings, this easy weeknight dinner is as eye-catching as it is delicious.
It’s like tacos went on a health kick—and we’re here for it.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Low-Carb & Protein-Rich – A leaner take on tacos using ground turkey and bell peppers instead of tortillas.
Quick & Easy – Just 10 minutes of prep and 20 minutes of baking.
Great for Meal Prep – These bake and reheat beautifully.
Kid-Approved – They’re fun to eat and perfectly portioned.
Customizable Toppings – Add your favorite taco fixings like sour cream, salsa, or guacamole.
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Sweet Bell Peppers – Red, yellow, and orange varieties offer natural sweetness and vibrant color.
Ground Turkey – A lean and mild base that pairs well with bold taco seasoning.
Taco Seasoning – Use a homemade blend or your favorite packet.
Green Onions – Adds a pop of freshness and color to the filling.
Egg – Binds the meat mixture together so it stays in place.
Cheddar + Monterey Jack Cheese – Melts inside each ring for gooey, savory bites.
Salt – Enhances all the other flavors.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Cut Peppers Evenly – Aim for 1-inch thick rings so they hold their shape and cook evenly.
Use Room Temp Egg – Helps it blend into the meat mixture more smoothly.
Spray the Pan Generously – Prevents sticking and helps the bottoms crisp slightly.
Use Gloves If Sensitive to Peppers – Especially helpful if you’re prepping multiple batches.
Make It Spicier – Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne to the mix.
How to Make Taco Stuffed Pepper Rings
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 400°F.
Lightly coat a baking sheet with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Wash your bell peppers and slice them into 1-inch thick rings, removing seeds and membranes.
Lay them flat on the baking sheet.
Step 2: Mix the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, chopped green onions, taco seasoning, egg, cheese cubes, and salt.
Mix until just combined—don’t overwork it, or the filling can become dense.
Step 3: Stuff the Rings
Use your hands or a spoon to carefully press the meat mixture into each pepper ring, filling all the way to the edges and slightly mounding the tops.
Step 4: Bake
Bake the stuffed pepper rings for 20–30 minutes, or until the meat is fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F) and the tops are lightly browned.
Step 5: Serve
Let the rings cool slightly before serving.
Plate them with a side of sour cream, salsa, fresh cilantro, or even guacamole for dipping.
What to Serve It With
Mexican Street Corn Salad – A bright, creamy side to balance the richness.
Cauliflower Rice – Keeps the meal low-carb and satisfying.
Black Bean & Avocado Salad – Adds color and fiber.
Tortilla Chips & Salsa – For a little crunch on the side.
Cilantro Lime Quinoa – A healthy, protein-packed grain base.
Variations / Substitutions
Ground Beef or Chicken – Easily substitute other proteins.
Shredded Cheese – Instead of cubed for a more uniform melt.
Add Veggies – Mix in corn, black beans, or chopped spinach to the filling.
Make It Dairy-Free – Omit cheese or use vegan alternatives.
Mini Bell Peppers – Turn them into bite-sized taco poppers for parties.
Storage & Leftovers
Fridge – Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer – Wrap individually and freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheat – Warm in the microwave or oven at 350°F until heated through.
Meal Prep Tip – Cook and portion with sides for easy weekday lunches.
FAQs
Can I use ground beef instead of turkey?
Absolutely. Ground beef or even ground chicken works well—just drain excess fat after browning.
Do I need to precook the meat?
No, the filling bakes directly in the oven and stays juicy.
Just make sure to bake until fully cooked.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Stuff the pepper rings, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
What cheeses work best?
A mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack is melty and flavorful, but pepper jack adds a spicy kick!
Final Thoughts
These Taco Stuffed Pepper Rings are a fresh, fun way to enjoy all the bold flavors of taco night—minus the tortillas.
They’re wholesome, colorful, and endlessly adaptable for any night of the week.
Whether you’re serving a family dinner or prepping a week’s worth of lunches, this recipe deserves a spot on your regular meal rotation.
