Cheesy Stuffed Mini Peppers: Creamy Appetizer Recipe

Get ready to elevate your appetizer game with these delightful Cream Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers! Packed with vibrant colors and rich flavors, these bite-sized treats are a true crowd-pleaser. The star of the show is the creamy and cheesy filling that perfectly complements the sweetness of the mini peppers. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply looking for a tasty snack, these stuffed peppers are sure to impress.

Made with just six simple ingredients, including cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and fresh chives, these Cream Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers come together in a flash, making them perfect for any occasion. The recipe strikes the ideal balance between elegance and ease, allowing you to enjoy a delicious appetizer without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, they’re gluten-free, making them a versatile option for all your guests to enjoy.

With each bite of these Cream Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers, you’ll experience a burst of flavors and textures that will leave you reaching for more. Whether you follow the recipe to a tee or add your own twist with optional seasonings, these stuffed peppers are a guaranteed hit. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to savor the irresistible combination of sweet peppers and creamy filling in every delightful bite.

Quick Benefits

• Effortless Entertaining: Requires just six simple ingredients you likely have on hand and can be prepped ahead for stress-free entertaining.
• Customizable and Adaptable: Adaptable to various flavor preferences and dietary needs, allowing for optional seasonings like garlic powder and paprika to customize the filling.
• Minimal Mess, Maximum Flavor: Perfect finger food that doesn’t require utensils, creating minimal kitchen mess despite impressive results.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Stuffed Mini Peppers: Creamy Appetizer Recipe Recipe

• Impressive yet Simple: Impress your guests with these colorful and flavorful stuffed mini peppers that look and taste amazing, yet are easy to make with just six simple ingredients.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Perfect for stress-free entertaining, these peppers can be prepped ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy your party without last-minute cooking stress.
• Customizable and Adaptable: Easily adapt the recipe to cater to different flavor preferences and dietary needs, making it suitable for various occasions and guest preferences.
• Finger-Food Perfection: Ideal for parties, these stuffed mini peppers are convenient finger foods that eliminate the need for utensils, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable eating experience.
• Minimal Mess, Maximum Flavor: Despite the impressive results, this recipe creates minimal mess in the kitchen, making cleanup a breeze while delivering maximum flavor and satisfaction.
• Versatile and Crowd-Pleasing: Loved by even those who claim to dislike peppers, these creamy bites are a hit at any gathering, from casual game nights to elegant dinner parties.
• Tips for Perfect Results: Follow expert tips for ingredient selection, prep, and cooking techniques to ensure the stuffed peppers turn out just right every time, achieving the ideal balance of flavors and textures.

Ingredients for Cheesy Stuffed Mini Peppers: Creamy Appetizer Recipe

Main Ingredients

• 3/4 cup cheddar cheese, grated
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 lb mini sweet peppers, halved lengthwise and seeded
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped (plus extra for garnish)

Pro Tips for Cheesy Stuffed Mini Peppers: Creamy Appetizer Recipe

For optimal results when making Cream Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers, pay attention to the quality of your ingredients. Select firm, brightly colored mini sweet peppers, and make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature for easy mixing. Grate fresh cheddar cheese for better melting, and choose vibrant, crisp chives for a pop of color and flavor. Fresh ingredients truly make a difference in the final dish.

Prep ahead to make entertaining stress-free. Assemble the stuffed peppers in advance, refrigerate them, and bake just before your guests arrive. Remember to bring the peppers close to room temperature before baking for even cooking. A slight crunch with tender filling is the ideal texture – bake at 425°F for about 15 minutes to achieve this perfect balance. Planning and attention to detail will elevate this simple recipe into a crowd-pleasing appetizer that will have everyone coming back for more.

How to Make Cheesy Stuffed Mini Peppers: Creamy Appetizer Recipe

Step 1: Step 01

Preheat oven to 425°F and line 2 large baking sheets with parchment paper; set aside.

Step 2: Step 02

Combine cream cheese, cheddar cheese, chives, salt, and pepper in a medium bowl until well mixed.

Step 3: Step 03

Divide filling evenly among the peppers, ensuring they are not overfilled. Place peppers flat to prevent filling from leaking.

Step 4: Step 04

Arrange stuffed mini peppers on baking sheets and bake for 15 minutes or until filling is heated through.

Step 5: Step 05

Place on a serving platter, sprinkle with extra fresh chives, and serve while still warm.

Storage Tips

Once you have prepared the Cream Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers, storing them properly is essential to maintain their flavor and texture. To store any leftover stuffed peppers, allow them to cool to room temperature first. Place them in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator. They can be kept for up to 3-4 days.

If you plan to make the Cream Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers ahead of time for a party or gathering, you can assemble them and store them in the refrigerator before baking. Simply cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or foil to prevent any air exposure. Just remember to bring them close to room temperature before baking to ensure even cooking and ideal texture. This make-ahead option allows for stress-free entertaining while still serving a delicious appetizer.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you’re looking to make a healthier version of these Cream Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers, you can consider substituting the cream cheese with Greek yogurt or a blend of Greek yogurt and a small amount of light cream cheese. This swap will reduce the overall fat content while still providing a creamy texture to the filling. Additionally, you can experiment with using different types of cheese such as feta or goat cheese in place of the cheddar for a tangier flavor profile.

For a dairy-free alternative, you can replace the cream cheese and cheddar cheese with a plant-based cream cheese and dairy-free shredded cheese. Make sure to choose brands that melt well to achieve a similar gooey texture in the filling. You can also add nutritional yeast or a sprinkle of smoked paprika to mimic the savory notes that cheese typically provides. These substitutions cater to individuals with lactose intolerance or vegan dietary preferences while still delivering a tasty appetizer that everyone can enjoy.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion, try arranging these Cream Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers on a large wooden platter in a circular pattern, alternating colors for a visually appealing presentation. Garnish the platter with additional fresh chives sprinkled over the top to add a pop of color and a hint of freshness. Guests will love how the vibrant peppers and creamy filling look like a beautiful edible flower, making it a stunning centerpiece for any party spread.

To take these Cream Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers to the next level, consider serving them alongside a variety of dipping sauces such as a tangy sriracha mayo, zesty salsa verde, or a cool tzatziki. Arrange the sauces in small bowls around the platter of stuffed peppers, allowing guests to mix and match flavors to suit their preferences. The combination of the creamy, cheesy peppers with the different dipping options adds an interactive element to your party spread, making it a fun and delicious experience for everyone.

FAQs for Cheesy Stuffed Mini Peppers: Creamy Appetizer Recipe

Can I make these Cream Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep these stuffed peppers ahead of time. Simply assemble them in advance, refrigerate, and then bake them just before your guests arrive. Make sure to bring the assembled peppers close to room temperature before baking for even cooking.

What is the best way to store leftovers of these stuffed mini peppers?

Store any leftover Cream Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should stay fresh for up to 2-3 days. You can reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving.

Can I use a different type of cheese in this recipe?

Absolutely! While the recipe calls for cheddar cheese, you can experiment with different types of cheese to suit your preferences. Gouda, mozzarella, or even a spicy pepper jack cheese can be delicious alternatives to cheddar.

How can I make these stuffed mini peppers spicier?

If you prefer a spicier version of these Cream Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers, you can add some finely chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the cream cheese mixture. Adjust the amount according to your heat preference for a kick of spice.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these Cream Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers are a true crowd-pleaser that never fails to impress. With just a handful of ingredients and a few simple steps, you can create a gourmet appetizer that will elevate any gathering. The creamy filling paired with the sweet peppers creates a perfect balance of flavors that will have your guests coming back for more. So next time you’re looking for a delicious and easy-to-make dish, remember the magic of Cream Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers – they are sure to be a hit at any event or even just for a cozy night in.

Cheesy Stuffed Mini Peppers: Creamy Appetizer Recipe

Colorful mini sweet peppers filled with a creamy mixture of cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and fresh chives, baked to perfection – the ultimate crowd-pleasing party appetizer!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time10 Minutes

Cook Time15 Minutes

Total Time25 Minutes

CuisineNorth American

Skill LevelEasy

Servings12 Servings (24 stuffed pepper halves)

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 3/4 cup cheddar cheese, grated
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 lb mini sweet peppers, halved lengthwise and seeded
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped (plus extra for garnish)

Instructions

1. Step 01: Preheat oven to 425°F and line 2 large baking sheets with parchment paper; set aside.
2. Step 02: Combine cream cheese, cheddar cheese, chives, salt, and pepper in a medium bowl until well mixed.
3. Step 03: Divide filling evenly among the peppers, ensuring they are not overfilled. Place peppers flat to prevent filling from leaking.
4. Step 04: Arrange stuffed mini peppers on baking sheets and bake for 15 minutes or until filling is heated through.
5. Step 05: Place on a serving platter, sprinkle with extra fresh chives, and serve while still warm.