How to Make Pork and Quinoa Stuffed Peppers: A Healthy & Flavorful Recipe

 

Discover how to make pork and quinoa stuffed peppers with this easy, flavorful recipe. Perfect for a healthy meal, these peppers are packed with protein, nutrients, and delicious spices.

Why You’ll Love Pork and Quinoa Stuffed Peppers

Looking for a delicious, healthy, and easy-to-make meal? These pork and quinoa stuffed peppers are the perfect choice! They’re packed with lean protein, fiber-rich quinoa, and vibrant veggies — making them a nutritious option for lunch or dinner. Plus, they’re super customizable, so you can tweak the ingredients to match your taste buds.

Let’s dive into this simple recipe that’s as wholesome as it is satisfying!

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 4 large bell peppers (red, yellow, or green)

• 1 pound ground pork (or ground turkey for a leaner option)

• 1 cup cooked quinoa

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz, drained)

• 1 cup spinach, chopped (optional)

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 cup shredded cheese (optional, for topping)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Peppers

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Lightly brush them with olive oil and place them upright in a baking dish.

2. Cook the Filling

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant. Then, add the ground pork, breaking it apart as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess grease.

3. Add the Flavor

Stir in the cooked quinoa, diced tomatoes, spinach (if using), paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture cook for 5 more minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

4. Stuff the Peppers

Carefully spoon the pork and quinoa mixture into each pepper, filling them to the top. Press the filling down gently to pack it in.

5. Bake to Perfection

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil, sprinkle the peppers with shredded cheese (if using), and bake uncovered for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.

Tips for the Best Stuffed Peppers

• Quinoa alternatives: Swap quinoa for brown rice, couscous, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

• Spice it up: Add chili flakes or cayenne pepper for a little kick.

• Meal prep friendly: These stuffed peppers store well in the fridge for up to 4 days or can be frozen for longer storage.

Why Pork and Quinoa Make a Perfect Pair

Combining pork with quinoa makes these stuffed peppers a complete meal. Pork adds rich flavor and healthy fats, while quinoa brings fiber, plant-based protein, and essential nutrients like iron and magnesium. This balance of macronutrients helps keep you full and energized!

Serving Suggestions

These stuffed peppers pair wonderfully with a fresh side salad, roasted veggies, or a dollop of Greek yogurt as a creamy topping. They’re filling enough to stand alone but versatile enough to complement any side dish.

Final Thoughts

Making pork and quinoa stuffed peppers is an easy way to create a balanced, delicious meal that the whole family will love. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or whipping up a healthy dinner, this recipe is a guaranteed winner.

Give it a try and let me know how it turns out! And if you make any custom tweaks, I’d love to hear your version in the comments.

Happy cooking!