Pepper With Cream Cheese Filling
Creamy stuffed peppers with cheese and herbs make a versatile appetizer or snack, perfect for entertaining or casual gatherings, with rich flavors and customizable toppings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut the peppers in half and remove seeds.
- In a bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth.
- Stir in whipping cream, grated Parmesan or Cheddar, paprika, and chopped chives or parsley.
- Optional: Add chopped walnuts or salted peanuts to the cream mixture for extra flavor.
- Fill each pepper half with the cheese mixture.
- Serve immediately or chill before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a little extra crunch and flavor, consider adding chopped walnuts or salted peanuts to the cream mixture. If you prefer a spicier kick, increase the cayenne pepper. You can also experiment with different cheese types; goat cheese or feta can give a unique twist. Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature for easy blending.
Serving Suggestions
These stuffed peppers make a delightful appetizer or side dish, and they pair beautifully with a fresh salad or grilled meats. For a complete meal, serve alongside crusty bread or with a side of roasted vegetables. They also work well as part of a vegetarian spread, complementing dishes like Parmesan Stuffed Tomatoes.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover stuffed peppers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave them for quicker reheating, but the texture may be softer.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pepper With Cream Cheese Filling contains roughly 257 calories, with 13g protein, 36g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (127% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (59% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (51% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. It also contributes 14g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of peppers for this recipe?
Absolutely! While green and red bell peppers are traditional, you can use yellow or orange bell peppers for sweetness. Mini sweet peppers also make great bite-sized options. Just ensure that the peppers are firm and fresh to hold the filling well.
How can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just fill the pepper halves right before serving. If you prefer to assemble the entire dish ahead of time, it can be made and stored in the fridge for a few hours before serving, or even overnight for maximum flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe is entirely vegetarian, as it features cream cheese and vegetables. For variations, consider adding more vegetables to the filling or using different herbs for added flavor. It’s a great option for potlucks or gatherings, especially among vegetarian recipes.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).