Zesty Cream Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers Recipe for Snack Lovers

Colorful mini peppers bursting with creamy cheese are a game-changing appetizer that will steal the show at any gathering.

These bite-sized delights pack an irresistible punch of flavor and texture.

stuffed with smooth, tangy cream cheese and seasoned just right, they offer a perfect balance of richness and zest.

Vibrant peppers create a stunning presentation that makes everyone want to dig in.

Each pepper is a little package of deliciousness that disappears in seconds.

Quick to prepare and even quicker to devour, these mini peppers are sure to become your new favorite party snack.

Your guests won’t be able to resist these addictive little bites.

Cream Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers Snack Highlights

• Incredibly simple recipe that comes together in minutes, perfect for last-minute gatherings or unexpected guests.
• Flexible filling allows you to swap cheeses, add herbs, or include bacon bits for personalized flavor variations.
• Mini peppers provide vibrant color, crunch, and healthy nutrients while delivering delicious bite-sized comfort.
• Universally loved by both kids and adults, these stuffed peppers work wonderfully as party appetizers, game day treats, or casual get-togethers.

Ingredients List for Cream Cheese Mini Peppers

• Mini Bell Peppers: Sweet and colorful peppers perfect for bite-sized appetizers.
• Cream Cheese: Soft, creamy cheese that creates a smooth filling base.
• Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheese that adds extra flavor and richness to the filling.

• Chives, Salt, Pepper: Fresh herbs and classic seasonings that enhance the overall taste of the stuffed peppers.

• Parchment Paper: Non-stick surface that helps prevent peppers from sticking and makes clean-up easy.

Equipment to Prep Mini Peppers with Ease

• Mixing Bowl: Medium-sized for blending cream cheese filling ingredients.
• Spatula or Spoon: To mix and combine filling components smoothly.
• Baking Sheets: Two sheets for even pepper placement and baking.
• Parchment Paper: To line baking sheets and prevent sticking.
• Sharp Knife: For cutting mini peppers in half and chopping chives.
• Cutting Board: Clean surface for prepping peppers and herbs.
• Platter: For serving the finished stuffed mini peppers.

Stuffed Mini Peppers Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Preheat Oven

Heat your oven to a toasty 425°F.

Grab two baking sheets and line them with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Create Creamy Mixture

• Cream cheese
• Shredded cheddar
• Freshly chopped chives
• Pinch of salt
• Dash of black pepper

Stir until the mixture is smooth and all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated.

Step 3: Stuff Colorful Peppers

Take your mini peppers and carefully fill each half with the creamy cheese blend.

Make sure to distribute the filling evenly so every bite is packed with flavor.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Place the stuffed pepper halves onto the prepared baking sheets.

Slide them into the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes.

You’ll know they’re ready when the filling is hot and bubbly.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the golden, cheesy peppers to a beautiful serving platter.

Sprinkle some extra fresh chives on top for a pop of color and added freshness.

Serve these delectable bites warm and watch them disappear quickly!

Mini Peppers Tips for Creamy Results

• Cut peppers lengthwise carefully to create even boats for consistent baking and easy filling.
• Let cream cheese sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes to ensure smooth, creamy mixing without lumps.
• Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the cheese mixture for those who enjoy a spicy kick.
• Experiment with different cheeses like goat cheese, feta, or blue cheese for unique flavor variations.
• Assemble stuffed peppers up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate, then bake just before serving for convenient entertaining.

Ways to Switch Up Cream Cheese Mini Peppers

• Vegan Veggie Poppers: Replace cream cheese with cashew cream, swap cheddar for nutritional yeast, use plant-based chives for a dairy-free appetizer that's creamy and packed with flavor.
• Low-Carb Bacon Blast: Substitute mini peppers with zucchini boats, add crumbled bacon to the cheese mixture for extra protein and a smoky kick.
• Spicy Mexican Style: Mix in diced jalapeños, replace chives with cilantro, add a sprinkle of cumin and chili powder to transform the filling with southwestern flair.
• Greek-Inspired Bites: Swap cream cheese for feta, incorporate chopped kalamata olives and dried oregano into the mixture for a Mediterranean-style appetizer with tangy notes.

Serving Up Cream Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers

• Party Appetizer Platter: Arrange these mini peppers on a colorful wooden board with toothpicks for easy grabbing during cocktail parties or game nights.
• Brunch Companion: Serve alongside scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, or as part of a breakfast charcuterie spread for a delightful morning meal.
• Dipping Delight: Pair with ranch, marinara, or herbed yogurt sauce for an extra layer of flavor that guests will love and keep coming back for more.
• Wine Night Snack: Match these cheesy peppers with a crisp white wine or light red to create a perfect evening appetizer that feels elegant yet simple.

Mini Peppers Storage and Freshness Tips

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep peppers in a single layer to prevent crushing the delicate stuffing.
• Wrap individually in plastic wrap, then place in freezer bag. Freeze for maximum 1 month. Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
• Preheat to 350F. Arrange peppers on baking sheet, cover loosely with foil. Warm for 8-10 minutes until heated through, preventing cheese from separating.
• Place peppers on microwave-safe plate. Heat in 15-second intervals, checking to avoid overheating. Microwaving may slightly soften pepper texture.

FAQs

• Can I use different types of peppers?

Yes, you can substitute mini bell peppers with jalapeños or larger bell peppers, but adjust baking time accordingly based on pepper size.

• Is it possible to make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffed peppers and refrigerate them up to 24 hours before baking. Just add 2-3 minutes to baking time when cooking directly from the refrigerator.

• Can I freeze these stuffed mini peppers?

Yes, you can freeze them before baking. Arrange peppers on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to cook, bake directly from frozen, adding 5-7 minutes to the original baking time.

Cream Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers Recipe

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4.6 from 33 reviews

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Mini peppers stuffed with creamy Philadelphia cream cheese become irresistible party appetizers. Colorful bell pepper bites deliver zesty flavor with rich, tangy filling that guests will devour quickly.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 1 pound (454 grams) mini sweet peppers, halved and seeded
• 8 ounces (227 grams) cream cheese, softened
• 3/4 cup (85 grams) cheddar cheese, grated

Seasonings:

• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Garnish:

• 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) chives, plus more for garnish

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F and prepare two baking sheets with parchment paper for optimal heat distribution and easy cleanup.
2. Create a smooth, creamy filling by thoroughly blending cream cheese, shredded cheddar, finely chopped chives, and seasonings until uniformly mixed.
3. Carefully spoon the cheese mixture into each pepper half, ensuring an even and generous distribution of filling.
4. Arrange the stuffed pepper halves on the prepared baking sheets, maintaining space between them for consistent heating.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, allowing the peppers to soften and the cheese filling to become hot and slightly bubbly.
6. Remove from oven and transfer to a serving platter, garnishing with additional fresh chives for a vibrant presentation and enhanced flavor.
7. Serve immediately while the peppers are warm and the cheese filling is at its most creamy and appetizing state.

Notes

• Swap cream cheese for dairy-free alternatives like cashew cream or vegan cream cheese to accommodate lactose-intolerant or vegan guests.
• Use different cheese varieties like goat cheese or pepper jack for unique flavor profiles and to match personal taste preferences.
• Pat peppers dry before filling to prevent excess moisture and ensure crispy, golden edges during baking.
• Prepare filling ahead of time and store in refrigerator for quick assembly when unexpected guests arrive or for meal prep convenience.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 185
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 310 mg
• Fat: 15 g
• Saturated Fat: 8 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 7 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 4 g
• Cholesterol: 35 mg