06/30/2025
Cream Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers
Servings: 6-8
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes (optional)
Total Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients
1 lb mini sweet peppers (cut lengthwise, seeds removed)
8 oz cream cheese, softened (leave it at room temp for easy mixing)
¾ cup cheddar cheese, grated (sharp cheddar is best for flavor)
2 tbsp chives, finely chopped (or substitute with minced green onion)
½ tsp salt
½ tsp ground black pepper
½ tsp garlic powder (optional, but adds extra flavor)
½ tsp smoked paprika (for a little depth, optional but recommended)
¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick)
¼ cup crumbled bacon (optional, but… bacon)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat & Prep
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) if you plan to bake them. If serving them fresh, skip this step.
Slice the mini peppers lengthwise and remove the seeds. Set them aside on a parchment-lined baking sheet (if baking) or a plate (if serving fresh).
Step 2: Mix the Filling
In a medium bowl, mix together cream cheese, cheddar cheese, chives, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Stir until everything is well combined.
If you’re using bacon, stir it in now for an extra savory boost.
Step 3: Fill Those Peppers
Using a small spoon or piping bag, fill each pepper half with the creamy cheese mixture. Don’t overstuff them—just enough to have a nice mound of filling.
Step 4: Serve Fresh or Bake
For fresh (cold) stuffed peppers:
Arrange on a platter and garnish with extra chives.
Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
For baked stuffed peppers:
Place the stuffed peppers on a baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
Garnish with extra chives and serve warm.
Tips for Perfect Stuffed Mini Peppers
Make them ahead: You can stuff the peppers up to a day in advance and keep them in the fridge until ready to serve or bake.
Spice it up: Add a dash of hot sauce or mix in some diced jalapeños for extra heat.
Go nuts with cheese: Try swapping cheddar for pepper jack, gouda, or parmesan for a different flavor twist.
Crunch factor: Top with panko breadcrumbs before baking for a crispy texture.
What to Serve with These Peppers
These little bites pair perfectly with:
A charcuterie board (because more snacks = more fun)
Grilled meats like steak or chicken
A simple green salad for a light contrast
A dip like ranch or sour cream (because dipping is always a good idea)
