Get ready to turn your kitchen into a cheesy, garlicky, herb-infused flavor paradise! These Cheesy Garlic Herb Stuffed Mini Peppers are about to become your new go-to appetizer that will have your guests begging for more. Packed with a creamy, irresistible filling and topped with a crispy, golden-brown cheese crust, this dish is the ultimate explosion of taste and texture that will have you hooked from the first bite.
Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Garlic Herb Stuffed Mini Peppers
These Cheesy Garlic Herb Stuffed Mini Peppers are a game-changer in the world of appetizers. Bursting with a delectable blend of melted cheese, aromatic garlic, and a fresh herb medley, this recipe is a surefire way to elevate any gathering or party. The mini peppers provide the perfect bite-sized vessel for this sensational filling, making it irresistibly easy to pop one after another. Get ready to wow your guests and leave them craving more of this epic, mouth-watering creation!
Ingredients
Prepare to indulge in a flavor-packed masterpiece with just a few simple ingredients. You’ll need mini bell peppers, cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, fresh herbs like parsley and chives, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Get ready to transform these humble ingredients into a dish that will have your taste buds singing with joy!
- 16 oz – Mini bell peppers
- 8 oz – Cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup – Shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup – Grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves – Minced garlic
- 2 tbsp – Chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tbsp – Chopped fresh chives
- 1/2 tsp – Salt
- 1/4 tsp – Black pepper
Ingredient Substitutions
- Cheese Varieties: You can experiment with different cheese varieties, such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of your favorites.
- Herbs: Feel free to mix and match based on your personal preferences, using a combination of basil, oregano, or rosemary.
How to Make Cheesy Garlic Herb Stuffed Mini Peppers
Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure that will leave your kitchen filled with the most incredible aromas!
Step 1: Prep Work
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F and prepping your mini bell peppers. Slice them in half lengthwise and carefully remove the seeds and membranes, creating the perfect vessels for your epic filling.
Step 2: Main Cooking Process
In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, shredded cheddar, Parmesan, minced garlic, and your choice of fresh herbs. Stir until the ingredients are fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth and creamy. Carefully spoon this irresistible filling into each of the prepared mini pepper halves, making sure to distribute it evenly.
Step 3: Final Steps/Assembly
Arrange the stuffed peppers on a baking sheet, and sprinkle the tops with a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, creating a sensational crust that will have your guests drooling.
Step 4: Finishing Touches
Once the Cheesy Garlic Herb Stuffed Mini Peppers emerge from the oven, let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with an extra sprinkle of fresh herbs, if desired, for a truly show-stopping presentation.
Recipe Variations & Tips
- Spicy Twist: Add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Cheese Swap: Swap out the cheddar for smoked gouda or pepper jack cheese for a unique twist.
- Herb Blend: Experiment with a combination of basil, oregano, or rosemary.
- Veggie Swap: Try using small jalapeños or Anaheim peppers instead of bell peppers for a spicier version.
Serving & Storage
Serve with: These Cheesy Garlic Herb Stuffed Mini Peppers are the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer, perfect for any gathering or party. Serve them warm, straight from the oven, for maximum enjoyment.
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, though we doubt they’ll last that long – they’re just that good!
Reheat: For the best texture, reheat the leftover Cheesy Garlic Herb Stuffed Mini Peppers in the oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Make-Ahead: You can prepare the filling in advance and stuff the peppers up to a day before baking. Just cover and refrigerate until ready to assemble and bake.
Nutrition Information
Indulge in the flavors of this epic dish without guilt! Each serving of these Cheesy Garlic Herb Stuffed Mini Peppers contains a balance of nutrients, including a good source of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins from the peppers. Savor every bite and let the flavors transport you to a flavor paradise!
- Serving Size: 2 stuffed pepper halves
- Calories: 142 kcal
- Protein: 6 g
- Carbs: 5 g
- Fat: 10 g
- Sodium: 319 mg
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these Cheesy Garlic Herb Stuffed Mini Peppers ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling in advance and stuff the peppers up to a day before baking. Just cover and refrigerate until ready to assemble and bake.
Can I use a different type of pepper?
While mini bell peppers are the classic choice, you can certainly experiment with other small pepper varieties, such as mini sweet peppers or even jalapeños for a spicy twist.
How do I ensure the peppers are cooked through?
To guarantee the peppers are tender and cooked to perfection, be sure to par-bake them for a few minutes before stuffing and baking with the filling.
Can I freeze these Cheesy Garlic Herb Stuffed Mini Peppers?
Absolutely! These peppers freeze beautifully. Simply bake them as directed, let cool completely, and then freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave when ready to serve.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
For the best texture, reheat the leftover Cheesy Garlic Herb Stuffed Mini Peppers in the oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
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Cheesy Garlic Herb Stuffed Mini Peppers
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: 🧀 CHEESE AVALANCHE
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Cheesy Garlic Herb Stuffed Mini Peppers are a delicious and colorful appetizer that combines the fresh taste of herbs with creamy cheese. Perfect for game day or any gathering!
Ingredients
12 mini sweet peppers
2 cups cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the mini peppers in half lengthwise and remove the seeds.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic, parsley, basil, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
4. Stuff each pepper half with the cheese mixture.
5. Place the stuffed peppers on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the peppers are tender.
7. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
These stuffed mini peppers can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator before baking.
Feel free to customize the cheese filling with your favorite herbs or spices!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 stuffed peppers
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: mini peppers, stuffed peppers, appetizers, cheese