The smell of roasted bell peppers fills the kitchen with warmth as they come out of the oven, revealing their vibrant colors and tempting aroma. Sloppy Joe Stuffed Peppers are a delicious twist on a classic dish that combines the comfort of sloppy joes with the freshness of bell peppers. This recipe takes about an hour to prepare and cook, and it works beautifully because the peppers soften while the filling becomes thick and flavorful.
This recipe is perfect for families looking for a fun and satisfying meal. It’s great for weeknight dinners or meal prep, as you can make the filling in advance and stuff the peppers just before cooking. Leftover stuffed peppers can also be stored for quick lunches or dinners later in the week.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- They are packed with protein and veggies for a wholesome meal.
- The combination of savory spices and sauces creates a comforting flavor.
- Each pepper is a complete meal, making for easy serving.
- They freeze well, perfect for future quick dinners.
What You’ll Need
Gather the following ingredients to make your Sloppy Joe Stuffed Peppers.
For the Peppers
- 3 large bell peppers, any color
- 4 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
For the Filling
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 medium carrot, shredded or chopped
- 1 small yellow onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 3/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
For the Topping
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
Note: Ground turkey can be substituted with ground beef or chicken if desired.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Use ground beef instead of turkey for a richer flavor.
- Swap ketchup for BBQ sauce for a smoky twist.
- Any color bell pepper works; choose your favorite.
- Fresh parsley can be replaced with dried if necessary.
How to Make It
Get ready to create a cozy meal in a few simple steps.
Preheat
Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F.
Prepare the Peppers
Halve the peppers and remove the seeds, stems, and membranes. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, toss the bell peppers with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Place the bell peppers cut side up and set aside.
Cook the Turkey
Heat the remaining olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground turkey and break it up with a spoon. Cook until the turkey is no longer pink, about 4 minutes.
Add the Veggies
Add the chopped onions and carrots to the skillet. Cook for another 4-5 minutes until softened, then add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Season the Mixture
Season the turkey with 1/2 teaspoon of salt, black pepper, chili powder, paprika, ketchup, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and parsley. Stir the mixture and add 1/2 cup of water. Bring to a simmer and let it cook until thickened, about 10 minutes.
Stuff the Peppers
Evenly distribute the Sloppy Joe filling into the halved peppers by spooning the mixture into the pepper halves. Sprinkle the filled peppers with shredded cheddar cheese.
Add Water and Cover
Pour 1/4 cup of water into the bottom of the baking dish and cover it with foil.
Bake
Bake the stuffed peppers until they are tender, about 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and the filling has browned. Garnish with extra parsley before serving.
How to Store It
Fridge: store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: yes, suitable for freezing before baking.
Reheat: microwave for 2-3 minutes or bake at 350°F for 15 minutes.
Tips for Best Results
- Don’t overcook the peppers in the oven; they should remain slightly firm.
- Adjust the spice levels by adding more chili powder for a kick.
- If you prefer cheesy stuffed peppers, add more cheese on top before baking.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a green salad for a refreshing side.
- Serve with sweet potato fries for a fun twist.
- Enjoy with crusty bread to soak up the delicious filling.
