Cream Cheese Stuffed Peppers: A Delicious Appetizer

When it comes to appetizers that are easy to make, visually appealing, and downright delicious, cream cheese stuffed peppers are hard to beat. These bite-sized delights bring together the creamy richness of cheese and the natural sweetness or spiciness of peppers. Whether you’re preparing for a party, a family dinner, or simply craving a flavorful snack, this recipe is for you! Ready to wow your taste buds? Let’s dive in.

Ingredients for Cream Cheese Stuffed Peppers

Here’s what you’ll need to create this flavorful recipe. The ingredients are simple and versatile, allowing for customization to suit your preferences.

Tip: You can substitute mini bell peppers with banana peppers or jalapeños for more variety. If you want a twist, try adding butter sauce to your stuffed banana peppers for an indulgent touch!

Step 1: Prepare the Peppers

• Thoroughly rinse the peppers under clean water and gently dry them with a clean cloth or paper towel.
• Slice each pepper lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes. For spicier jalapeños, leave some seeds intact.
• Place the halved peppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Filling

• In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper.
• If you’re using sausage, mix it into the filling for an extra layer of flavor.
• Mix thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.

Step 3: Stuff the Peppers

• Use a spoon or piping bag to carefully fill each pepper half with the cream cheese mixture. Make sure the filling is level with the edge of the pepper for even cooking.
• For added crunch, sprinkle breadcrumbs or bacon bits on top.

Step 4: Bake the Stuffed Peppers

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Place the stuffed peppers in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is golden and bubbling.
• For a crispy topping, switch to broil mode for the last 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

• Remove the peppers from the oven and let them cool for 5 minutes before serving.
• Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a vibrant finish.

Pro Tip: Pair these peppers with a dipping sauce like ranch or garlic butter for an extra burst of flavor.

Tips for Success

1. Choose the Right Peppers: Use mini bell peppers for a mild, sweet flavor or jalapeños for a spicy kick. Banana peppers pair wonderfully with cream cheese and butter sauce, adding a unique and flavorful twist.
2. Customize the Filling: Add sausage, cooked bacon, or diced vegetables for added texture and taste.
3. Make It Keto-Friendly: Skip the breadcrumbs and use full-fat cream cheese to keep this recipe low-carb.

Variations to Try

• Sausage Cream Cheese Stuffed Peppers: Mix crumbled sausage into the filling for a heartier appetizer.
• Cream Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers with Herbs: Add a variety of fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or dill to the cream cheese mixture.
• Stuffed Banana Peppers with Butter Sauce: For a decadent twist, drizzle a rich butter sauce over banana peppers before baking.

Conclusion

Cream cheese stuffed peppers are the perfect blend of creamy, cheesy, and crunchy textures, making them an appetizer that everyone will love. Whether you prefer sweet mini bell peppers or spicy jalapeños, this recipe is endlessly customizable. Easy to prepare, visually appealing, and bursting with flavor, these stuffed peppers are sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

FAQ

• Can I make cream cheese stuffed peppers ahead of time?
• Yes! You can prepare the stuffed peppers in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Simply bake as instructed when ready to serve.

• Can I use other cheeses in the filling?
• Absolutely! Swap cheddar for mozzarella, Parmesan, or a spicy pepper jack to change the flavor profile.

• Are cream cheese stuffed jalapeño peppers keto-friendly?
• Yes, as long as you avoid breadcrumbs or high-carb toppings, this recipe is perfect for a keto diet.

• Can I freeze stuffed peppers?
• Yes, you can freeze the assembled peppers before baking. To cook, bake directly from frozen, adding 5-10 minutes to the baking time.

Prepare these cream cheese stuffed peppers for your next gathering, and watch them disappear in no time.