Instant Pot Kielbasa Cabbage Potato Soup

Stuffed Mini Bell Peppers: A Quick, Healthy, and Flavorful Snack

Introduction

Mini bell peppers are a great base for appetizers and snacks due to their naturally sweet flavor and crunchy texture. This stuffed mini bell pepper recipe turns these peppers into a delectable bite-sized dish with a creamy, cheesy filling.

The filling is made from a combination of cream cheese, cheddar cheese, fresh herbs, and a splash of lemon juice to provide a tangy and savory experience.

Whether you serve them as an appetizer for a party, a side dish for a meal, or a healthy snack for the family, these stuffed peppers are sure to become a favorite.

Ingredients

For this recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients to make your stuffed mini bell peppers:

12 mini bell peppers (red, yellow, or orange)

4 oz cream cheese (softened)

1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

1 tablespoon sour cream (optional, for extra creaminess)

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/4 teaspoon onion powder

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh parsley or chives for garnish

These ingredients combine to create a rich, flavorful filling that pairs perfectly with the sweet and crunchy bell peppers.

The cream cheese serves as the base for the filling, providing a smooth, creamy texture that contrasts with the crispness of the peppers.

The shredded cheddar cheese adds a sharp and tangy flavor, while the parsley and lemon juice brighten up the dish with a fresh note. Garlic powder and onion powder enhance the savory aspects of the filling, making each bite even more delightful.

If you want to customize the recipe or add more flavor, there are plenty of options. You can add spices like paprika or cayenne pepper for a little heat, or incorporate cooked bacon or ground turkey for a heartier version.

Instructions

Here’s a step-by-step guide to preparing these tasty stuffed mini bell peppers:

1. Prep the Peppers

Start by washing the mini bell peppers thoroughly. Use a sharp knife to slice each pepper in half lengthwise, and then carefully remove the seeds and any white membranes.

Make sure to leave the pepper halves intact, as these will be your “boats” for the cheese mixture.

2. Prepare the Filling

In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream (if using), fresh parsley, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

Mix everything together until smooth and fully incorporated.

The cream cheese should be soft enough to blend easily, and the shredded cheddar will add a nice texture to the filling.

If you want a bit more tang, add a little extra lemon juice, or for more creaminess, a touch of sour cream.

3. Stuff the Peppers

Spoon the cheese mixture generously into each mini bell pepper half.

Use a small spoon or a piping bag to evenly distribute the filling. You want to make sure the filling is well-packed into each pepper half, but don’t worry if some of it sticks out a little.

The peppers will hold the mixture well, and the top will melt into a golden, delicious treat as they chill or bake.

4. Garnish

Once all the peppers are stuffed, sprinkle them with a little more fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and additional flavor.

This will not only enhance the look of the peppers but also add an extra layer of freshness.

5. Serve

You can enjoy the stuffed mini bell peppers right away, or if you prefer them chilled, place them in the fridge for 15-20 minutes. Chilling will allow the filling to firm up slightly, making them easier to pick up and eat.

Tips

Cream Cheese Softness: Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature before mixing.

Cold cream cheese can be difficult to blend, and it won’t provide the smooth texture you want for the filling.

Customize the Filling: Add-ins like chopped olives, diced tomatoes, or cooked bacon bits can elevate the flavor.

For an even richer filling, use a mix of cream cheese and ricotta cheese.

Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens the dish, but you can also experiment with lime juice for a slightly different tang.

Make Ahead: You can prepare these stuffed mini bell peppers in advance.

Just store the stuffed peppers in an airtight container and refrigerate them until you’re ready to serve.

They can be prepared the night before, which is perfect for meal prep or a last-minute party.

Grilling Option: If you prefer a warm version, you can grill the stuffed peppers.

Simply place them on the grill for about 5-7 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the peppers are tender.

This adds a smoky flavor to the peppers, giving them an extra layer of complexity.

Storage

If you have leftovers, or if you want to make these ahead of time, storing them is easy:

Refrigeration: Keep any leftover stuffed mini bell peppers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days.

They can be served cold or at room temperature, but if you prefer them warm, you can reheat them in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds.

Freezing: If you want to freeze the stuffed peppers, place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid (about 2 hours).

Once frozen, transfer the peppers to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. When you’re ready to eat them, thaw them in the fridge overnight and enjoy as usual. You can also bake or grill them directly from frozen, but make sure to increase the cooking time slightly.

Serving Suggestions

Stuffed mini bell peppers are a versatile dish that can be served in many ways:

As a Snack: These stuffed peppers are perfect for snacking. They’re easy to grab and eat, making them an ideal option for a mid-afternoon pick-me-up or a quick and healthy snack.

Appetizer for Parties: These peppers make a great finger food for parties or gatherings.

They are bite-sized and full of flavor, making them a hit with guests. Serve them on a platter with other appetizers like hummus, cheese boards, or charcuterie.

Side Dish: Pair these stuffed mini bell peppers with your favorite main course for a balanced meal.

They go well with grilled chicken, steak, or even vegetarian dishes like roasted vegetable pasta.

Salad Topping: You can slice the stuffed peppers into smaller pieces and use them as a colorful topping for salads.

Their creamy filling adds richness to leafy greens or grain-based salads.

With Dips: Serve these stuffed peppers with your favorite dip. They pair wonderfully with a creamy ranch dip, guacamole, or salsa.

Conclusion

These stuffed mini bell peppers are an easy, delicious, and healthy snack or appetizer that can be customized to suit any taste.

Whether you serve them chilled or warm, they’re guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

With their colorful appearance, creamy filling, and burst of flavor, they make for a great addition to any meal or gathering. Plus, they’re quick to prepare, requiring just a handful of ingredients and minimal cooking time.

Whether you’re looking for a low-carb snack, a fun party treat, or a healthy addition to your meal prep, these stuffed mini bell peppers are sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.