Stuffed Mini Bell Peppers: Juicy & Flavorful Bites đź«‘
Are you looking for the perfect appetizer that’s not only visually stunning but also bursting with flavor? Stuffed Mini Bell Peppers are the answer! These delightful bites are incredibly easy to make and are bound to be a hit at your next gathering. Whether you’re hosting a party or just enjoying a cozy night in, these vibrant peppers will add a splash of color and taste to your table. Follow along to discover how to make this easy and delicious recipe!
Why Stuffed Mini Bell Peppers?
Mini bell peppers are becoming a popular choice for both home cooks and professional chefs. Their sweet flavor and crispy texture provide the ideal base for a variety of fillings. Plus, they are low in calories, making them a great guilt-free appetizer option. Perfect for game days, family gatherings, or as a fun snack, these stuffed peppers let you get creative with fillings, meaning there’s something for everyone!
Ingredients
For this best stuffed mini bell peppers recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 12-15 mini bell peppers (any color variations)
- 1 cup cooked quinoa or rice (for a healthy filling)
- 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn (fresh or canned)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack works great)
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh cilantro (for garnish)
Optional Add-ins
- Chopped jalapeños (for a spicy kick)
- Cream cheese (for creamier filling)
- Ground turkey or beef (for a protein-packed option)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your stuffed mini bell peppers cook evenly and come out perfectly tender.
Step 2: Prepare the Peppers
Begin by washing the mini bell peppers thoroughly. Slice each pepper in half lengthwise and remove the seeds. This will create delightful little boats to hold your savory filling.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
In a medium bowl, mix together the cooked quinoa or rice, black beans, corn, shredded cheese, cumin, smoked paprika, and salt and pepper. Drizzle in the olive oil and stir until everything is well-combined.
Step 4: Stuff the Peppers
Using a spoon, fill each pepper half with your delicious quinoa mixture. Make sure to pack it in for maximum flavor!
Step 5: Bake
Arrange the stuffed mini bell peppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is golden and bubbling.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once baked, remove the peppers from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro, and serve warm!
Tips/Variations
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Make Ahead: Prepped stuffed mini bell peppers can be refrigerated for up to one day before baking. Just cover them with foil!
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Vegan Version: Substitute cheese with a plant-based alternative, and add more beans or lentils for extra protein.
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Spice It Up: For those who love heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to your filling mix.
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Serve with Dips: Pair these stuffed mini bell peppers with sour cream, guacamole, or your favorite salsa for an even more delicious experience.
Conclusion
With their colorful presentation and mouthwatering stuffing, Stuffed Mini Bell Peppers are a must-try. Not only are they fun to make, but they’re also the perfect dish to impress your friends and family. So share your culinary goodness and make these savory bites today.
Try it and let us know how it turned out! We love hearing your feedback and would be thrilled to see your stuffed mini bell peppers creations on social media! Happy cooking!