Oh boy, friends! I am absolutely thrilled to share this delightful recipe for **Spiced Turkey and Dubliner Stuffed Poblano Peppers**. This dish has become a staple at my dinner table, and I can’t help but salivate just thinking about it! Every time I make these peppers, I’m reminded of the warm, cozy gatherings I’ve had with friends and family, all savoring this hearty meal together. The blend of flavors—spicy turkey with creamy Dubliner cheese stuffed in those vibrant poblano peppers—is simply heaven on a plate!
One of my fondest memories is the time I crafted this dish for a small potluck. I was super nervous about trying something new, but once those peppers came out of the oven, the smell practically danced its way to the guests! By the time I served them, the room was filled with delightful “oohs” and “aahs.” Trust me, try them out for yourself, and you’ll be creating your own memorable moments too!
What’s in Spiced Turkey and Dubliner Stuffed Poblano Peppers?
Let’s break down the magic of this dish with the ingredients!
Poblano Peppers: These mild chilies provide a perfect vessel for stuffing. They’re not too hot, so they won’t overwhelm you, making them family-friendly!
Ground Turkey: This lean meat is a healthier alternative to beef that doesn’t compromise on flavor. It’s also packed with protein!
Dubliner Cheese: I absolutely adore this cheese! It’s a delicious blend of sharp and creamy, bringing an amazing richness to the dish. If you can’t find Dubliner, a good aged cheddar is a fine substitute!
Onion and Garlic: The base of flavor in many dishes. They add depth and a comforting aroma that I can’t get enough of.
Spices (Cumin, Smoked Paprika, Chili Powder): These guys bring warmth and a touch of smokiness, elevating the overall dish!
Cooked Rice: This not only adds texture but also helps to bulk up the stuffing so each pepper is hearty and satisfying.
Crushed Tomatoes: They create a beautiful sauce at the bottom of the baking dish, adding moisture and a fresh flavor.
Olive Oil: For sautéing the veggies and turkey, this heart-healthy fat is an essential part of cooking!
Cilantro or Parsley: A sprinkle on top adds a brightness that makes everything pop!
Is Spiced Turkey and Dubliner Stuffed Poblano Peppers Good for You?
Now, let’s talk about the health benefits—because yes, you can indulge and still eat well!
Ground Turkey: A fantastic source of lean protein, helping to keep you full and satisfied while being lower in calories compared to other meats.
Poblano Peppers: Rich in vitamins A and C, these peppers offer powerful antioxidants. They’re also low in calories—win-win!
Dubliner Cheese: While cheese can be rich and high in saturated fats, the flavor is so intense that a little goes a long way! And it provides calcium and protein to boot.
However, be mindful if you’re watching your sodium intake because the cheese and crushed tomatoes can add up. I also recommend keeping an eye on portion sizes—these peppers are so tasty that it’s easy to go back for seconds!
Ingredients for Spiced Turkey and Dubliner Stuffed Poblano Peppers
This recipe serves about 4 people, and here’s your shopping list:
– 4 large poblano peppers
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 cup Dubliner cheese, shredded
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
– 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish (optional)
How to Make Spiced Turkey and Dubliner Stuffed Poblano Peppers?
Alright, let’s get cooking!
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s nice and toasty when your creation is ready.
2. Grab a skillet and heat the olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes.
3. Now, add the ground turkey to the skillet, breaking it up with your trusty spoon. Cook until it’s beautifully browned, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Time to bring in the spices! Stir in the cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Let those flavors mingle for about 1-2 minutes until your kitchen is smelling divine.
5. Off the heat, mix in the cooked rice and half of the shredded Dubliner cheese. Give it a good stir until it’s all combined.
6. Cut the tops off the poblano peppers and scoop out the seeds (a spoon is perfect for this!).
7. Now comes the fun part—stuff each poblano pepper with your turkey and cheese mixture, packing it in really tightly.
8. In a baking dish, spread the crushed tomatoes on the bottom and lay your stuffed peppers right on top.
9. Sprinkle the remaining Dubliner cheese over the stuffed goodness before sliding it into the oven.
10. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25-30 minutes.
11. After that, take off the foil and let it bake for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese is gloriously melted and bubbly.
12. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley if you like, and serve those peppers hot!
Garnish and Suggestions
These stuffed poblano peppers are a meal all on their own, but if you want to add some sides, consider serving them with a refreshing side salad or some nice crusty bread to soak up those lovely crushed tomatoes. For an extra kick, you could drizzle some hot sauce over the top—just embrace those flavors!
I hope you give these Spiced Turkey and Dubliner Stuffed Poblano Peppers a shot! They’re not just delicious; they’re a way to bring friends and family together around the dinner table. Don’t forget to share your experiences or any variations you try! Happy cooking!
