Have you ever bitten into something so delightful, it made you pause and question the meaning of life? That’s exactly what these easy stuffed mini peppers do to me every time. They’re like little colorful boats of flavor—packed with a cheesy, savory filling that might just be the highlight of your next gathering or, you know, just a random Tuesday night. It’s like opening a tiny gift with every bite, and let’s face it, who doesn’t love surprises?
Steps
- Heat your oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C) to prepare for baking.
- Cut the mini sweet peppers in half lengthwise, then place them in a bowl. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt, and toss until well coated.
- In a different bowl, blend the softened goat cheese with Parmesan, minced jalapeño, garlic, chives, and black pepper until smooth. Fill each pepper half with the cheese mixture, then arrange them on a baking sheet.
- Place the filled peppers in the oven and bake until they soften and the cheese is golden brown, approximately 15 minutes.
Ingredients
- 10 mini sweet peppers, cut lengthwise
- 2 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- 1 package (5.5 ounces) of softened goat cheese
- ? cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 medium jalapeño pepper, seeds removed and finely chopped
- ½ teaspoon garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon dried chives, chopped
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Nutritional Values
Calories: 860 | Total Fat: 60g | Saturated Fat: 40g | Cholesterol: 140mg | Sodium: 1360mg | Total Carbohydrate: 20g | Dietary Fiber: 0g | Total Sugars: 0g | Protein: 40g | Vitamin C: N/A | Calcium: 780mg | Iron: N/A | Potassium: N/A
FAQ
- Can I make these mini stuffed peppers spicier?
- Yes, you can increase the heat by adding more minced jalapeño pepper or by leaving the seeds in, as they contain most of the heat.
- Is it possible to add meat to this recipe?
- Absolutely, you can include crumbled, cooked turkey bacon to the cheese mixture if you’re not strictly vegetarian.
- What can I use as a substitute for goat cheese?
- If you prefer not to use goat cheese, cream cheese can be a good alternative, though it may slightly alter the flavor profile.
- How do I store leftover stuffed peppers?
- Store any leftover stuffed peppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat them in the oven for best results.
- Can I prepare these stuffed peppers in advance?
- Yes, you can prepare the peppers and fill them with the cheese mixture a day ahead. Store them covered in the refrigerator and bake just before serving.
Tips
- To make these mini stuffed peppers even more flavorful, consider roasting the jalapeño pepper before mincing it. This will add a smoky depth to the filling.
- If you prefer a different flavor profile or are not a fan of goat cheese, try substituting it with cream cheese or ricotta for a milder taste.
- When mixing the cheese filling, ensure the goat cheese is at room temperature for easier blending and a smoother texture.
- For added crunch, sprinkle some panko bread crumbs on top of the stuffed peppers before baking.
Equipment
- Baking sheet – A non-stick or regular baking sheet for placing the stuffed peppers in the oven.
- Mixing bowls – A set of mixing bowls for combining the ingredients.
- Measuring spoons – For measuring out the olive oil, salt, and other ingredients.
- Chef’s knife – A good quality knife for slicing the mini peppers and mincing the jalapeño and garlic.
- Cutting board – A sturdy cutting board for preparing the peppers and other ingredients.
