If you’re looking for a bite-sized delight that bursts with flavor and creamy goodness, this Cream Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers Recipe is the answer to your snack or appetizer dreams. These vibrant little peppers are filled with a smooth, cheesy mixture that balances perfectly with the natural sweetness and slight crunch of the peppers themselves. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for an easy weeknight treat, or just craving something deliciously satisfying, this recipe is a total winner and so simple to whip up!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this dish shine. Each item brings something special—from the creamy base to the subtle hint of garlic and onion that elevates the flavors beautifully.
- 12 mini sweet peppers: These colorful vessels offer a sweet crunch and are the perfect size for stuffing and snacking.
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened: The star of the filling, providing a rich, velvety texture that blends beautifully with the other cheeses.
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Adds a sharp, tangy depth that complements the mild cream cheese.
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: A subtle punch that lifts the creamy filling with savory warmth.
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder: Adds a gentle sweetness and complexity without overpowering the other flavors.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that round out the flavor profile perfectly.
- Chopped chives, for garnish: A fresh, mild onion-like crunch that adds a beautiful pop of green and a subtle bite.
How to Make Cream Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Peppers
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Then, carefully slice the tops off each mini sweet pepper and remove all seeds and membranes, creating perfect little cups for the creamy filling.
Step 2: Whip Up the Cream Cheese Mixture
In a bowl, blend the softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar together. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly until you have a smooth, even mixture. This filling will be the luscious heart of your stuffed peppers.
Step 3: Stuff the Peppers
Using either a spoon or a piping bag, generously fill each hollowed-out mini pepper with the cheesy cream cheese blend. Make sure to fill each one to the brim so every bite bursts with flavor.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Arrange the stuffed peppers on your prepared baking sheet. Place them in your preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes until the peppers are tender and the cheese filling is beautifully melted and starting to turn golden on top.
Step 5: Cool and Garnish
Once baked, remove the peppers from the oven and allow them to cool slightly so they set up just enough to enjoy without losing any luscious texture. Finally, sprinkle chopped chives over each for a fresh, vibrant garnish.
How to Serve Cream Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers Recipe
Garnishes
Chopped chives are the classic finishing touch adding color and a subtle onion flavor. You can also add a dash of smoked paprika or a drizzle of balsamic glaze to amp up the visual appeal and flavor complexity.
Side Dishes
These stuffed mini peppers shine on their own but also pair wonderfully with a crisp green salad or alongside a charcuterie board. For a heartier option, serve them with garlic bread or roasted vegetables to complete your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Try arranging the peppers in a colorful ring on a large platter for parties, or skewer a few together for easy grab-and-go fun. You can also stuff a variety of peppers or add fresh herbs like basil or parsley for customized flavors.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover stuffed mini peppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They maintain their flavor and texture well, making them a perfect next-day snack or appetizer.
Freezing
While these peppers are best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze them uncovered on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 1 month and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To warm them up, place the peppers in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it may soften the peppers too much and change the texture.
FAQs
Can I use other cheeses instead of cheddar?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with mozzarella for a milder taste, pepper jack for a spicy kick, or even feta for a tangy twist. Just keep the balance of creamy and sharp flavors in mind.
Are these peppers spicy?
No, mini sweet peppers are very mild and have a natural sweetness, making them perfect for all ages and spice preferences.
Can I prepare this recipe vegan?
Yes! Substitute the cream cheese and cheddar with vegan cheese alternatives, and the recipe will still be just as delightful and satisfying.
Is it necessary to bake the peppers?
While you can enjoy them raw for extra crunch, baking softens the peppers and melts the cheese filling, creating a warm, comforting bite that’s hard to resist.
What can I do if I don’t have a piping bag?
No worries! Simply use a small spoon or a plastic sandwich bag with a corner snipped off to fill the peppers neatly and easily.
Final Thoughts
This Cream Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers Recipe is one of those delightful dishes that feels fancy yet is incredibly easy to make. Its perfect blend of sweet, creamy, and savory flavors makes it a standout snack or appetizer that everyone will love. I can’t wait for you to try it and watch those mini peppers disappear at your next get-together or cozy night in!
Print
Cream Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Total Time: 25-30 minutes
- Yield: 12 stuffed mini peppers (serves 4 as appetizer)
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Cream Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers are a delicious and easy appetizer that combines sweet mini peppers with a creamy, cheesy filling. Perfectly baked until tender and golden, they make a flavorful and visually appealing snack or party bite.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 12 mini sweet peppers
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped chives, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
- Prepare the peppers: Cut the tops off each mini sweet pepper and carefully remove the seeds and membranes inside, creating space for the filling.
- Make the filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper and mix them thoroughly until smooth and well blended.
- Stuff the peppers: Using a spoon or a piping bag, carefully fill each mini pepper with the cream cheese mixture, ensuring they are nicely packed.
- Arrange on baking sheet: Place the stuffed mini peppers upright on the prepared baking sheet, spaced evenly for uniform baking.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes until the peppers are tender and the cheese filling is melted and slightly golden on top.
- Cool slightly: Remove the peppers from the oven and allow them to cool just a bit to make them easier to handle and enhance flavor melding.
- Garnish: Sprinkle chopped chives over the warm stuffed peppers for a fresh and colorful finish.
- Serve: Serve these creamy stuffed mini peppers warm as a delightful appetizer or snack and enjoy!
Notes
- Mini sweet peppers come in different colors—feel free to use a mix for a vibrant presentation.
- For extra flavor, you can add finely chopped jalapeños to the cheese mixture for a spicy kick.
- Use full-fat cream cheese for the best creamy texture and flavor.
- These can be prepared ahead of time and baked just before serving.
- Ensure peppers are washed and dried thoroughly before stuffing.
