Description
Spicy jalapeño poppers meet creamy comfort in this irresistible Cream Cheese Stuffed Peppers recipe. Baked golden and packed with zesty flavor, these peppers deliver a mouthwatering blend of heat and richness that will have you craving more with every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Peppers:
- 12 mini bell peppers or large jalapenos
Cheeses:
- 8 ounces (226 grams) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup (60 grams) shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup (25 grams) grated Parmesan cheese
Seasonings and Herbs:
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- ¼ cup (15 grams) chopped green onions or chives
Optional Toppings:
- ¼ cup (30 grams) crumbled bacon or breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and non-stick surface.
- Carefully slice bell peppers in half lengthwise, removing all seeds and white membranes to create clean, even pepper boats for stuffing.
- Create the creamy filling by blending softened cream cheese with shredded cheese, stirring in sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until achieving a smooth, uniform consistency.
- Generously fill each pepper half with the cream cheese mixture, pressing gently to ensure complete coverage and compact the filling into every crevice.
- Transfer the stuffed peppers to the prepared baking sheet, arranging them with space between each pepper to allow even heat circulation.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, watching for peppers to become tender and filling to turn golden and slightly bubbly.
- For an optional crispy topping, activate the broiler and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, monitoring closely to prevent burning.
- Remove from oven and let rest briefly, then garnish with fresh chopped herbs or green onions to add a vibrant, aromatic finishing touch.
- Serve immediately while warm and enjoy the rich, creamy texture and robust flavors of these delectable stuffed peppers.
Notes
- Choose bell peppers with flat bottoms to help them sit evenly and prevent tipping while baking.
- Swap regular cream cheese for low-fat or dairy-free alternatives to accommodate different dietary needs and health preferences.
- Pat peppers dry after washing to ensure the filling adheres properly and prevents excess moisture during baking.
- Experiment with different cheese blends like pepper jack or sharp cheddar to create unique flavor profiles and add complexity to the dish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 350 mg
- Fat: 16 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 9 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 7 g
- Cholesterol: 40 mg