If you’re craving a snack or appetizer that’s bursting with color, flavor, and texture, this Easy Stuffed Mini Peppers Recipe is exactly what you need in your life. These vibrant little peppers are filled with a savory blend of seasoned ground meat and creamy cheese, baked to perfection until the edges are delightfully charred and the filling is irresistibly gooey. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a crowd-pleasing dish that looks as good as it tastes. Get ready to fall in love with these bite-sized flavor bombs that are as fun to make as they are to eat!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this Easy Stuffed Mini Peppers Recipe lies in its straightforward yet flavorful ingredients. Each component plays a unique role, from the sweetness of the mini peppers to the creamy texture of the cheese and the savory depth of seasoned meat. Having these essentials on hand makes preparing this dish a breeze, and lets the vibrant colors and delicious tastes shine through.
- Mini sweet peppers: Choose colorful, firm peppers for the perfect bite-sized vessels that add natural sweetness and crunch.
- Ground turkey or beef: This provides a hearty, meaty base that’s juicy and satisfying; choose lean for a lighter option.
- Cream cheese or cheddar cheese: Use cream cheese for silky creaminess or cheddar for a sharper, melty punch.
- Garlic powder: Adds aromatic depth and a subtle kick without overpowering the overall flavor.
- Onion powder: Brings a sweet and savory undertone that enhances the meat mixture beautifully.
- Fresh herbs (parsley or cilantro): Freshness and color come from these herbs, giving the dish a bright finish.
How to Make Easy Stuffed Mini Peppers Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lining a baking tray. This will ensure your peppers cook evenly and the filling gets all bubbly and golden. It’s a small step that makes a big difference in the final dish.
Step 2: Prep the Peppers
Slice each mini sweet pepper in half lengthwise and carefully remove the seeds. Place them cut-side up on your prepared tray. This positioning helps the peppers hold the filling securely while allowing the edges to roast flavorsomely.
Step 3: Cook the Meat
In a hot skillet over medium heat, brown the ground meat until it’s cooked through and slightly caramelized. Drain any excess fat so your filling isn’t greasy. Then stir in garlic powder and onion powder, infusing the meat with irresistible savory notes.
Step 4: Add Cheese to the Meat
Take your skillet off the heat and fold in cream cheese or cheddar. The residual warmth melts the cheese into a rich, creamy texture that ties the filling together perfectly.
Step 5: Stuff the Peppers
Generously spoon the meat-and-cheese mixture into each pepper half. Don’t be shy—these little peppers are begging for that hearty filling!
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Pop the stuffed peppers into your oven and bake for about 20 minutes. You’re looking for a slight charring on the edges of the peppers and bubbly, melted filling. When they come out, sprinkle fresh herbs on top for a pop of color and herbaceous brightness.
How to Serve Easy Stuffed Mini Peppers Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro not only add a lovely green pop but also bring a fresh, slightly citrusy flavor that cuts through the richness of the filling. A drizzle of a simple balsamic glaze can add an unexpected sweet tang that pairs wonderfully as well.
Side Dishes
This Easy Stuffed Mini Peppers Recipe pairs beautifully with light, fresh sides. Think crisp garden salads, quinoa tossed with lemon and olive oil, or a simple rice pilaf. These sides balance the richness while keeping the meal vibrant and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve these peppers on a rustic wooden board for a casual vibe, or get fancy by placing them in a decorative shallow dish lined with leafy greens. Adding edible flowers or a sprinkle of toasted nuts around the plate can elevate the visual appeal for entertaining guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store your stuffed mini peppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to three days, allowing you to enjoy the deliciousness without having to cook again immediately.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze the stuffed peppers in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. This way, you can keep them for up to three months and have a quick, tasty snack or appetizer at the ready.
Reheating
Reheat refrigerated or frozen stuffed mini peppers in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and the filling is bubbly again. Avoid the microwave if possible to keep the peppers from becoming soggy.
FAQs
Can I use other types of meat for this recipe?
Absolutely! Chicken, pork, or even plant-based ground meat substitutes work just as well, allowing you to customize the recipe to your preference or dietary needs.
What if I don’t have cream cheese or cheddar?
You can substitute with mozzarella for a milder melt or goat cheese for a tangy twist. Just be sure to pick a cheese that melts nicely to keep that creamy filling texture.
Are these peppers spicy?
Nope! Mini sweet peppers are naturally mild and sweet, making this recipe kid-friendly and perfect for anyone who prefers gentle flavors over heat.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Swap the ground meat for cooked lentils, crumbled tofu, or a hearty vegetable medley to keep the stuffing filling and flavorful without any meat.
How long do these stuffed peppers take to bake?
They typically need about 20 minutes at 375°F (190°C) to get that perfect balance of tender pepper and bubbly, golden filling.
Final Thoughts
Now that you’ve got the scoop on this Easy Stuffed Mini Peppers Recipe, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and bring it to life in your own kitchen. Whether you’re feeding your family or impressing guests, these peppers hit the perfect note of savory, sweet, creamy, and colorful. They’re versatile, quick to prepare, and just downright fun to eat—a true winner in my recipe book. I can’t wait for you to try them and see how quickly they become a beloved favorite!
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Easy Stuffed Mini Peppers Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings (approximately 2-3 stuffed pepper halves per serving)
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Easy Stuffed Mini Peppers recipe features sweet mini peppers filled with a savory blend of ground turkey or beef and creamy cheese, seasoned with garlic and onion powder, then baked to bubbly perfection. Perfect as a flavorful appetizer or light meal, these stuffed peppers are simple to prepare and bursting with fresh herbs.
Ingredients
Peppers
- 12 mini sweet peppers
Filling
- 1/2 pound ground turkey or ground beef
- 1/3 cup cream cheese or shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish, about 2 tablespoons)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking tray with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the peppers: Slice each mini sweet pepper in half lengthwise and carefully remove the seeds and membranes. Arrange the pepper halves cut-side up on the prepared baking tray.
- Cook the meat: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the ground turkey or beef. Cook until the meat is thoroughly browned and no longer pink, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess fat to reduce grease.
- Season and blend: Stir garlic powder and onion powder into the cooked meat. Remove skillet from heat and fold in the cream cheese or shredded cheddar until the mixture is well combined and the cheese has melted into the meat.
- Stuff the peppers: Generously spoon the meat and cheese mixture into each pepper half, filling them evenly and completely.
- Bake: Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the edges of the peppers are slightly charred and the filling is hot and bubbly.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or cilantro over the stuffed peppers, and serve warm.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey with ground beef or even ground chicken depending on your preference.
- If you prefer a vegetarian version, replace the ground meat with cooked lentils or a plant-based meat alternative.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of chili flakes or chopped jalapeño to the filling.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Using cream cheese will give a creamier filling, while cheddar cheese provides a sharper, more robust flavor.
