Cream Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers

Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf with Creamy Dijon Gravy is the perfect balance of comfort food and gourmet flavors. This dish transforms the elegance of the classic French recipe into an easy-to-make, family-friendly format, bringing together tender ground chicken, savory ham, and gooey Swiss cheese in every bite. The creamy Dijon gravy is the crowning touch, adding a tangy, rich layer of flavor that elevates the meal to restaurant-quality status. Not only is this recipe incredibly delicious, but it’s also versatile, allowing you to customize it with your favorite cheeses, spices, or even added vegetables for extra nutrients. Whether served as the centerpiece of a casual dinner or a holiday feast, this meatloaf is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Best of all, it’s simple enough for weeknights yet impressive enough for entertaining. Try this creative twist on a classic and savor the delightful blend of flavors and textures!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bursting with Flavor: Creamy, savory filling pairs beautifully with the natural sweetness of mini peppers.
• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and quick preparation make this recipe approachable for all skill levels.
• Healthy and Light: Naturally low-carb, gluten-free, and full of vibrant vegetables.
• Customizable: Endless options for fillings and toppings allow you to tailor the recipe to your taste.
• Great for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a party appetizer or a weekday snack, these peppers fit the bill.
• Visually Appealing: The bright colors of the mini peppers add a festive touch to any table.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes (if baking)
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 20 stuffed peppers
• Serving Size: 2 peppers

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 80
• Carbohydrates: 3g
• Protein: 2g
• Fat: 7g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 2g

Ingredients

For the Filling:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (or any favorite cheese)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 green onions, finely chopped
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper

For the Peppers:

• 10 mini sweet peppers (halved lengthwise, seeds removed)

Optional Toppings:

• ¼ cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
• 2 tbsp crumbled cooked bacon
• 1 tsp red pepper flakes for heat

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Mini Peppers:

1. Preheat the Oven (Optional): If baking, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Wash and Halve: Rinse the mini peppers and slice them lengthwise. Remove seeds and membranes to create a hollow space for the filling.

Make the Cream Cheese Filling:

3. Mix Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir until well blended and creamy.

Fill the Peppers:

4. Stuff the Peppers: Using a spoon or piping bag, fill each pepper half generously with the cream cheese mixture, smoothing the top.

Add Toppings:

5. Optional Garnishes: Sprinkle the stuffed peppers with panko breadcrumbs for crunch, crumbled bacon for smokiness, or fresh parsley for a pop of color.

Bake or Serve:

6. Bake (Optional): Arrange the peppers on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 15 minutes, or until the filling is warm and the peppers are slightly tender. For extra browning, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end.
7. Serve Fresh (Optional): If you prefer raw peppers, skip the baking step and serve them fresh for a crisp, refreshing bite.

Ingredient Background

• Mini Sweet Peppers: Naturally sweet and crisp, these peppers are the perfect size for bite-sized appetizers.
• Cream Cheese: The creamy base for the filling adds richness and pairs well with other flavors.
• Cheddar Cheese: Adds a sharp, savory note to balance the sweetness of the peppers.
• Parmesan Cheese: Provides a nutty, salty flavor and enhances the texture of the filling.
• Green Onions: Bring a mild onion flavor and freshness to the filling.

Technique Tips

• Softened Cream Cheese: Allow the cream cheese to come to room temperature for easier mixing.
• Uniform Sizing: Choose peppers of similar size for even cooking and consistent presentation.
• Don’t Overfill: Fill the peppers generously but avoid overstuffing, as the filling may spill during baking.
• Use a Piping Bag: For a cleaner presentation, pipe the filling into the peppers using a piping bag or zip-top bag with the corner snipped.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

• Skewered Peppers: Thread stuffed mini peppers onto skewers for a fun, portable appetizer.
• Diced Pepper Bites: Dice the peppers into small cups and fill them for bite-sized hors d’oeuvres.
• Layered Platter: Serve the stuffed peppers on a bed of lettuce with additional toppings and dips.

Additional Tips for Success

• Fresh or Baked Options: Offer a mix of raw and baked peppers to suit different preferences.
• Keep the Filling Creamy: Avoid overbaking, which can dry out the filling.
• Customize the Seasonings: Adjust the spices and herbs to match your flavor preferences or the theme of your event.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños, hot sauce, or red pepper flakes to the filling for a kick of heat.
• Vegetarian Mediterranean: Mix in chopped sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese for a Mediterranean twist.
• Southwestern Style: Incorporate black beans, corn, and taco seasoning into the filling.
• Herb and Garlic: Add fresh dill, chives, or parsley for an herby flavor profile.

Freezing and Storage

Storage:

• Refrigerate: Store leftover stuffed peppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing:

• Freeze Before Baking: Arrange the stuffed peppers on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.
• After Baking: While not ideal, baked peppers can be frozen and reheated in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

Healthier Twist Ideas

• Low-Fat Cream Cheese: Use low-fat or Neufchâtel cheese to reduce calories and fat.
• Whole-Grain Topping: Swap panko breadcrumbs for whole-grain breadcrumbs for added fiber.
• Extra Veggies: Add finely chopped spinach, kale, or zucchini to the filling for more nutrients.
• Dairy-Free Option: Substitute the cream cheese and cheddar with plant-based alternatives for a dairy-free version.

Serving Suggestions for Events

• Cocktail Parties: Arrange the stuffed peppers on a platter with small forks or toothpicks for easy handling.
• Game Day Snack: Pair with dips like ranch, guacamole, or marinara for a snackable spread.
• Holiday Gatherings: Garnish with fresh herbs and serve on a decorative tray for a festive touch.

Special Equipment

• Mixing Bowl: For combining the filling ingredients thoroughly.
• Baking Sheet: Essential for baking the peppers evenly.
• Piping Bag: Optional but helpful for a polished presentation.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make these peppers ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the peppers and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Bake just before serving.

2. Can I use bell peppers instead of mini peppers?
Absolutely! Slice bell peppers into smaller portions or use them for a larger, main-dish version.

3. How do I keep the peppers from tipping over?
Slice a small sliver off the bottom of each pepper half to create a flat base.

4. What’s the best way to reheat stuffed peppers?
Reheat in a 350°F oven for 8-10 minutes to maintain their texture and flavor.

5. Can I skip the breadcrumbs?
Yes! The breadcrumbs are optional and mainly add crunch. Omit them for a gluten-free or low-carb version.

6. Are there other cheeses I can use?
Certainly! Try Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack for different flavors.

7. Can I grill these peppers instead of baking?
Yes, grill them over medium heat until the peppers are tender and the filling is warm.

8. Are these peppers spicy?
No, mini sweet peppers are naturally mild. For spice, add jalapeños or chili flakes.

Conclusion

Cream Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers are a versatile, easy-to-make dish that combines vibrant flavors, creamy textures, and visual appeal. Whether baked or served fresh, these bite-sized treats are perfect for any occasion, from casual snacks to elegant appetizers. Customizable and crowd-pleasing, this recipe is one you’ll return to again and again. Try it today and enjoy a delicious, colorful addition to your menu!

Print