New Orleans Sausage and Turkey Stuffed Bell Peppers with Kidney Beans
Bold Creole-inspired stuffed peppers packed with smoky sausage, lean ground turkey, red kidney beans, and seasoned rice. The filling combines classic New Orleans flavors with hearty protein and vegetables, creating a satisfying one-dish meal. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, these peppers offer comfort food appeal with a Southern twist. The combination of two proteins makes them especially filling, while the kidney beans add authentic Louisiana flair and extra fiber.
Ingredients
Instructions
- 1
Preheat oven to 350 degrees
- 2
Slice tops off green peppers and remove seeds and white pith, set aside
- 3
Brown ground turkey with garlic powder and black pepper in large skillet for 5-7 minutes
- 4
Add rice, beans, sausage, and water to turkey, mix well and cover
- 5
Cook covered mixture for 7 minutes
- 6
Stir in tomato sauce and taste for seasoning, add salt and pepper if desired
- 7
Place peppers in greased casserole pan and stuff with cooked mixture
- 8
Cook peppers for 20-40 minutes until desired tenderness is reached
- 9
Top with shredded Cheddar cheese
Tips
Choose peppers that can stand upright and have thick walls for better structure during cooking.
Test pepper tenderness with a fork - they should pierce easily but still hold their shape.
Let stuffed peppers rest 5 minutes before serving to allow filling to set properly.
Good to Know
Refrigerate up to 3 days in covered container
Stuff peppers up to 1 day ahead, cover and refrigerate, add 10 minutes to baking time
Serve hot immediately after adding cheese topping
Common Mistakes
Choose peppers that stand upright to avoid filling spillage during baking
Don't overcook peppers in first stage to avoid mushy texture
Substitutions
Dairy-Free Swaps
General Alternatives
FAQ
Can I freeze stuffed peppers?
Yes, freeze assembled uncooked peppers up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in refrigerator and add 15 minutes to baking time.
What if my peppers tip over during baking?
Trim a small slice from the bottom to create a flat surface, or use a muffin tin to hold peppers upright.
Can I make this without rice?
Yes, substitute with quinoa, cauliflower rice, or extra beans. Cooking time may need slight adjustment for moisture content.