If you are searching for a delightful and simple appetizer to impress your guests or simply enjoy at home, this Cream Cheese Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe is an absolute must-try. The vibrant bell peppers create the perfect colorful vessel, offering just the right amount of sweetness and crunch to contrast with the luscious, melted cream cheese and sharp shredded cheddar inside. Each bite bursts with rich, creamy goodness balanced by a hint of garlic powder, making this dish irresistibly warm and comforting. It’s also a fantastic low-carb option for those watching their intake but craving flavor and texture in every mouthful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with this Cream Cheese Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe is a breeze because the ingredients are straightforward yet incredibly effective in delivering a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. Each item plays a critical role—from the fresh bell peppers’ crispness and color to the creamy, melty cheeses that fill them with richness.
- Bell Peppers (4): Choose firm, brightly colored peppers such as red, yellow, or orange for their sweetness and eye-catching appearance.
- Cream Cheese (8 oz): The star ingredient that provides a smooth, tangy creaminess essential for the stuffing.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Adds a sharp, melted contrast that complements the cream cheese beautifully.
- Garlic Powder: A subtle but crucial seasoning that brings warmth and depth to the flavor profile without overpowering the dish.
How to Make Cream Cheese Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Bell Peppers
Begin by washing the bell peppers thoroughly and slicing off the tops. Remove the seeds and membranes carefully so you have hollow cups ready to be stuffed. This preparation ensures that every bite is smooth without any bitterness from the seeds.
Step 2: Mix the Cheese Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, and a sprinkle of garlic powder. Stir well until you have a creamy, evenly blended filling that will melt perfectly when baked.
Step 3: Stuff the Peppers
Generously fill each bell pepper hollow with the cheese mixture. Make sure to pack the cheese tightly so it doesn’t fall out during baking, yet leave a little room at the top to allow for melting and bubbling.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Place the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish and pop them into a preheated oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Bake for about 25 minutes until the peppers soften and the cheese is bubbly and golden on top. The smell alone will make your kitchen incredibly inviting!
How to Serve Cream Cheese Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly chopped herbs such as parsley or chives to add a burst of color and a fresh, herbal brightness that cuts through the richness of the cheese filling beautifully.
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs wonderfully with light salads like a crisp cucumber and tomato salad or even a simple mixed green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. These sides add freshness and balance any richness from the stuffed peppers.
Creative Ways to Present
Try slicing the peppers into rings after baking and serving them on a platter for an elegant appetizer tray. Alternatively, place each stuffed pepper in a little nest of fresh greens for a party presentation that looks as good as it tastes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can keep leftover stuffed peppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They maintain their flavor and texture well, making them ideal for quick reheating later on.
Freezing
If you want to save them longer, wrap each pepper tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They freeze beautifully for up to 2 months and will be just as delicious after thawing.
Reheating
To reheat, place the stuffed peppers in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. This helps preserve their texture and brings back that wonderful melty cheese goodness without making the peppers soggy.
FAQs
Can I use different types of cheese in this recipe?
Absolutely! While cream cheese and cheddar make a fantastic combo, feel free to experiment with mozzarella, pepper jack, or even feta to tweak the flavor to your liking.
Are bell peppers the only vegetable I can stuff with cream cheese?
Not at all! Zucchini boats or large mushrooms can be wonderful alternatives while following the same cream cheese stuffing idea for variety.
Is this recipe suitable for a low-carb diet?
Yes, this Cream Cheese Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe is an excellent low-carb option because it uses fresh vegetables and cheese without added carbs, making it both nutritious and satisfying.
Can I make this dish vegan or dairy-free?
You can substitute dairy cheese with plant-based cream cheese and shredded vegan cheese, though the texture and flavor will vary slightly but can still be delicious and creamy.
How do I prevent the peppers from being too soggy after baking?
Choosing firm peppers and baking them until just tender helps maintain structure. Avoid overbaking, and if preferred, you can roast the peppers separately before stuffing for extra firmness.
Final Thoughts
This Cream Cheese Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe is truly a gem—simple enough for a weeknight snack but special enough to serve at gatherings. With its creamy, cheesy filling and bright, tender peppers, it’s a dish that brings warmth and joy with every bite. I can’t recommend it enough for anyone looking to add a little cheesy, veggie-infused magic to their kitchen. Give it a go and enjoy the smiles it brings!
Print
Cream Cheese Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 stuffed pepper halves (serves 4)
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Carb
Description
Cream Cheese Stuffed Bell Peppers are a delicious and easy appetizer featuring vibrant bell peppers filled with a creamy, cheesy mixture and baked to perfection. This low-carb dish is perfect for a quick snack or party starter, combining the mild sweetness of bell peppers with the rich flavors of cream cheese and shredded cheddar, enhanced with a hint of garlic powder.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 4 bell peppers
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
- Prepare the Bell Peppers: Wash the bell peppers thoroughly and cut them in half lengthwise. Remove the seeds and membranes carefully to create a cavity for the filling.
- Mix the Cheese Filling: In a bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, and garlic powder. Mix well until fully incorporated and smooth.
- Stuff the Peppers: Spoon the cheese mixture evenly into each bell pepper half, filling them generously.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the stuffed peppers on a baking sheet and bake for 25 minutes or until the peppers are tender and the cheese filling is melted and slightly golden on top.
- Serve: Remove from oven and allow to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy as a delightful low-carb appetizer.
Notes
- Great low-carb option suitable for those watching carbohydrate intake.
- You can add herbs like parsley or chives to the cheese mixture for extra flavor.
- For a spicy twist, mix in some chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper.
- Use different colored bell peppers for a vibrant presentation.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheated in the oven.
