Oh my goodness, you guys! Let me tell you about one of my all-time favorite recipes: Stuffed Mini Peppers. These vibrant little gems are not just a feast for the eyes, but they’re bursting with flavor! I first discovered them at a family gathering, and let me tell you – they disappeared faster than my Uncle Bob at a potluck when the dessert table is unveiled.
What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. Whether you’re cooking for a party, a cozy dinner, or just craving something scrumptious, these stuffed mini peppers fit the bill perfectly. Plus, they’re packed with delicious ingredients that feel hearty yet still light. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s dive into this colorful and cheesy delight!
What’s in Stuffed Mini Peppers?
– Mini Bell Peppers: These adorable, colorful peppers are not just fun to eat; they bring a sweet crunch that pairs perfectly with the savory filling. Plus, they’re easy to stuff—just slice off the tops and remove the seeds!
– Cooked Rice: I like using brown rice for its nutty flavor and added fiber, but white rice works just as well if that’s what you have! Either way, rice helps to bulk up the stuffing and provide a satisfying texture.
– Ground Meat: You can use beef, turkey, or sausage here, depending on your mood (or dietary needs). Each type brings its own unique flavor to the dish. Personally, I lean toward ground turkey for a lighter option!
– Cream Cheese: This is where the magic happens! Softened cream cheese binds everything together beautifully and adds that creamy texture.
– Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Who doesn’t love gooey cheese? Mozzarella melts wonderfully and gives that lovely, cheesy pull when you take a bite.
– Grated Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of this adds a rich, nutty flavor that elevates the whole dish.
– Fresh Parsley: Not only does fresh parsley enhance the flavor, but it also makes everything look pretty!
– Garlic: Because let’s be honest, garlic makes everything better. It brings a wonderful aroma and depth of flavor.
– Onion Powder: I love using onion powder for its subtle sweetness that enhances the filling without overpowering it.
– Italian Seasoning: This is a must-have for that classic Italian flavor.
– Salt and Pepper: These are essential for pulling all the flavors together. Go easy on the salt if you’re watching your intake!
– Canned Diced Tomatoes: The juice from the tomatoes not only helps to keep the peppers moist while baking but adds a delicious acidity that ties everything together beautifully.
– Olive Oil: Perfect for sautéing the meat and adding a little richness.
Is Stuffed Mini Peppers Good for You?
Absolutely! Stuffed mini peppers offer a lot of nutritional benefits, all wrapped up in a delicious little package.
– Mini Bell Peppers: They’re low in calories and high in vitamin C, which boosts your immune system. Plus, their vibrant colors mean they’re full of antioxidants!
– Ground Meat: Depending on your choice (beef, turkey, or sausage), you can tailor the protein content to suit your diet. Lean meats like turkey are lower in fat but can still deliver that hearty flavor.
– Brown Rice: If you opt for brown rice, you’ll be getting more fiber and nutrients. Brown rice can help keep you feeling full longer, too!
– Cream Cheese and Mozzarella: While these add creaminess and flavor, they also bring calcium into the mix. Just be mindful of portion sizes if you’re watching your dairy intake.
That said, if you’re looking to make this dish lighter, you could substitute the cream cheese for a reduced-fat option or Greek yogurt for a tangier twist.
Ingredients List
– 1 pound mini bell peppers (about 25 peppers)
– 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
– 1 pound ground meat (beef, turkey, or sausage)
– 1 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (plus more for garnish)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz) with juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
(Fills about 4-6 servings, depending on the size of your appetite!)
How to Make Stuffed Mini Peppers?
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Wash and dry the mini bell peppers. Slice the tops off and remove the seeds, making sure to leave enough pepper for stuffing.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground meat and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess fat if necessary.
4. In a large bowl, combine the cooked meat, cooked rice, cream cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
5. Stuff each mini pepper with the filling mixture, pressing down gently to fit as much filling as possible.
6. Place the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish. Pour the can of diced tomatoes (including the juice) evenly over the top of the stuffed peppers.
7. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
8. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the tops are golden brown.
9. Garnish with additional chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy your stuffed mini peppers!
Stuffed Peppers Variations and Tips
Now, let’s talk about how you can make these stuffed mini peppers your own!
– **Make it Veggie:** For a meatless version, try using a mix of sautéed vegetables and beans. Spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms work wonders in the filling!
– **Spice it Up:** If you want to add some kick, toss in some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños into the stuffing.
– **Quesadilla Style:** If you’re feeling adventurous, consider swapping out the Italian seasoning for taco seasoning and some black beans. It’s like a mini taco fiesta!
– **Extra Cheesy:** For those cheese lovers in the house, feel free to add more mozzarella or even sprinkle some on top before baking for an extra cheesy crust.
Honestly, I hope you give these stuffed mini peppers a try! They’re a fantastic way to mix things up in the kitchen, and trust me, they’ll impress anyone who takes a bite. When you do make them, be sure to share your experiences and any variations you tried! Happy cooking, my friends!
