Healthy Stuffed Bell Peppers with Lean Ground Beef & Turkey Pepperoni: A High-Protein, Low-Carb Meal
Meals
Looking for a high-protein, low-carb meal that’s both satisfying and delicious? These Stuffed Bell Peppers with lean ground beef, marinara sauce, and a variety of tasty toppings will have you feeling like you’re indulging in a hearty pizza, but without all the extra calories. Plus, they’re loaded with protein, fiber, and healthy fats, making them the perfect meal to support your fitness goals.
The best part? They're super easy to make, requiring just a few basic ingredients and a little time in the oven to bring everything together. If you're looking to enjoy a guilt-free meal that tastes indulgent, this is the perfect recipe for you!
Healthy Stuffed Bell Peppers with Ground Beef and Turkey Pepperoni
Macros per Stuffed Bell Pepper Half (Makes 8 halves, 4 peppers total):
Calories: 172
Protein: 23g
Carbs: 7g
Fat: 5g
Ingredients:
For the Meat Sauce:
1 lb 95% lean ground beef (high in protein, low in fat)
1/4 diced white onion (adds flavor and moisture)
1 tsp onion powder (for extra depth)
1 tsp garlic powder (a staple seasoning)
1 tsp paprika (adds a smoky, rich flavor)
1 tsp Italian seasoning (for a herby, savory taste)
1/2 cup basil-tomato marinara sauce (for the perfect pizza sauce base)
1 cup diced tomatoes (adds freshness and texture)
For the Bell Peppers:
4 large bell peppers (cut in half and deseeded)
1 cup marinara sauce (to coat the bottom of the baking dish)
1 cup reduced-fat mozzarella cheese (melted on top for that cheesy, gooey goodness)
Turkey pepperoni slices (for added protein and that delicious pepperoni flavor)
Sliced black olives (optional but adds an extra savory touch)
Chili flakes (optional for a little spice)
Dried oregano (optional for an extra herby finish)
1. Prepare the Meat Sauce:
Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add in the diced white onion and cook until softened (about 3 minutes).
Add in the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Season with onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
Once the beef is fully cooked, stir in the marinara sauce and diced tomatoes. Allow the mixture to simmer for 5-10 minutes until well combined and heated through. Set aside.
2. Prepare the Bell Peppers:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Slice the bell peppers in half lengthwise and remove the seeds. Place them into a baking dish.
Spoon about 1 cup of marinara sauce into the bottom of the baking dish to create a nice base layer.
3. Stuff the Peppers:
Stuff each bell pepper half with the cooked ground beef mixture, packing it tightly into the peppers.
Top each stuffed pepper with a generous amount of reduced-fat mozzarella cheese.
Add turkey pepperoni slices on top of the cheese, followed by sliced black olives (if using) for extra flavor.
Sprinkle with chili flakes and dried oregano if desired.
4. Bake:
Place the stuffed peppers in the oven and bake at 400°F for about 20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and golden and the peppers are tender.
Once done, remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
5. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your stuffed bell peppers hot, and enjoy the hearty, flavorful meal!
Meal Prep Safety Tips:
Storage: These stuffed bell peppers store well in the fridge. After baking, let them cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They can be kept in the fridge for 3-4 days. To freeze: Individually wrap the stuffed peppers in foil or place them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll stay fresh in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, simply reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Reheating: If reheating, do so in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, or in the oven at 350°F for 10-12 minutes to ensure everything stays warm and the cheese melts perfectly.
Customize Your Fillings: Feel free to get creative with your filling! You can swap the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even tofu for a vegetarian version. You can also experiment with other toppings like chopped green onions or sautéed spinach for added flavor and nutrients.
Serving Suggestions: These stuffed peppers pair wonderfully with a side salad or steamed veggies for a well-rounded, nutritious meal. You can also serve them with a small portion of quinoa or rice for added carbs, if desired.
Additional Notes:
Low-Carb Option: This recipe is naturally low in carbs, thanks to the bell peppers and the use of lean ground beef. If you're following a keto or low-carb diet, it’s the perfect meal to keep you on track.
Make It Spicy: If you love heat, consider adding a diced jalapeño or hot sauce to the meat sauce for an extra kick. The turkey pepperoni also adds a bit of spice, so adjust to your preference.
Cheese Lovers: Want to make this even cheesier? Add a little parmesan cheese on top of the mozzarella before baking for a crispy, cheesy crust.
Conclusion:
These Stuffed Bell Peppers with Lean Ground Beef are a perfect meal for anyone who wants to eat healthier without sacrificing flavor. Full of protein, veggies, and flavorful seasonings, they’re an easy-to-make dish that’s both satisfying and nutritious. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or serving a healthy dinner, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Enjoy it with family or pack it for lunch the next day—either way, you can’t go wrong!
Let me know how your stuffed peppers turn out, and feel free to share your own twists on this recipe.
Happy cooking!