If you’re searching for a snack that’s bursting with flavor, quick to make, and perfectly portable, this Pizza Stuffed Mini Peppers Recipe is about to become your new go-to. These colorful little pockets combine the sweet crunch of mini peppers with gooey melted mozzarella, tangy pizza sauce, and optional savory pepperoni for a bite-sized taste of pizza heaven. They’re fantastic for busy weeknights, party appetizers, or anytime you want a fun twist on classic pizza flavors without the fuss of dough. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without these vibrant, cheesy delights in your life.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Pizza Stuffed Mini Peppers Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a starring role in creating the perfect balance of taste and texture—from the crunchy sweetness of the peppers to the creamy, melty cheese and robust tomato sauce. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 8 mini peppers: Choose brightly colored ones for both a visual pop and a fresh, crisp bite.
- 1/3 cup pizza sauce: Use sugar-free if you want to keep it keto-friendly, or your favorite brand for extra flavor.
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Freshly shredded melts better and gives that irresistibly gooey texture.
- 1/4 cup mini pepperoni (optional): Adds a savory, meaty kick that perfectly complements the other ingredients.
How to Make Pizza Stuffed Mini Peppers Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by heating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. This step is essential not only to keep your pan clean but also to make sure your mini peppers bake evenly without sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Mini Peppers
Slice each mini pepper lengthwise and carefully remove the seeds. This makes a perfect little boat for your pizza filling. Arrange all the halved peppers neatly on your prepared baking sheet so they have enough space to bake beautifully.
Step 3: Add the Sauce
Using about a teaspoon of pizza sauce per pepper half, spoon the sauce into the base of each pepper. This sauce layer is the flavorful foundation of your pizza filling, soaking the pepper with tangy tomato goodness that pairs perfectly with the creamy cheese.
Step 4: Cheese and Toppings
Generously sprinkle shredded mozzarella over the pizza sauce in each pepper. If you’re using mini pepperoni, tuck a few slices on top. The cheese melts into a bubbly, golden layer while pepperoni adds a burst of savory spice that’ll make each bite irresistible.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake the stuffed peppers in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes. Keep an eye on them; once the cheese has melted and begun to turn golden, they’re ready to come out. The peppers should remain crisp yet tender, creating an amazing contrast with the gooey filling.
How to Serve Pizza Stuffed Mini Peppers Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra fresh zing, sprinkle chopped fresh basil or oregano over the peppers right after baking. A light drizzle of olive oil or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes can also elevate the flavors and add a touch of gourmet flair to this simple snack.
Side Dishes
These stuffed mini peppers make a perfect appetizer or snack, but they also pair wonderfully with a crisp green salad or a simple pasta dish to round out the meal. For a party, serve alongside a charcuterie board with olives and cheeses for a delightful spread.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the Pizza Stuffed Mini Peppers Recipe on a long wooden board lined with parchment, garnished with fresh herbs and clusters of cherry tomatoes. You can even thread some with toothpicks to turn them into easy-to-grab finger foods that guests will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually meld nicely overnight, making for a delicious next-day snack or quick lunch.
Freezing
While freshest when eaten soon after baking, you can freeze these mini peppers. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. They will keep for up to 2 months, perfect for prepping snacks ahead of time.
Reheating
To reheat, pop the stuffed peppers in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 8-10 minutes. This helps the cheese melt again and refreshes the crispness of the peppers better than a microwave would.
FAQs
Can I use different kinds of cheese in this recipe?
Absolutely! While mozzarella is classic for that melty, mild flavor, feel free to mix in cheddar, provolone, or even a sprinkle of parmesan for a sharper taste.
What if I don’t eat meat? Can I skip the pepperoni?
Yes! The pepperoni is optional and the stuffed peppers are delicious on their own with just sauce and cheese. You could also substitute veggies like diced mushrooms or olives for extra flavor.
Are mini peppers always seedless or do I need to clean them out?
Mini peppers usually have a small cavity with seeds, so it’s best to cut them in half and remove seeds and membranes for the best tasting results and easiest eating experience.
Can I make this recipe keto-friendly?
Definitely! Use a sugar-free pizza sauce and stick to mozzarella cheese. The peppers themselves are low in carbs, making this snack a great choice for keto diets.
How spicy are pizza stuffed mini peppers?
They are very mild by default because mini peppers are sweet, not hot. You can add crushed red pepper flakes or use spicy pepperoni if you like a bit of heat.
Final Thoughts
This Pizza Stuffed Mini Peppers Recipe is such a joyful little treat that brings together colorful veggies and favorite pizza flavors in a fun, bite-sized form. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or craving an easy, healthy snack, these peppers are sure to delight everyone’s taste buds. Give them a try, and I promise you’ll be reaching for this recipe again and again!
Print
Pizza Stuffed Mini Peppers Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 16 stuffed mini pepper halves
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Carb
Description
These Pizza Stuffed Mini Peppers are a quick and delicious appetizer or snack featuring sweet mini peppers filled with savory pizza sauce, melted mozzarella cheese, and optional mini pepperoni slices. They are perfect for parties, game day, or a low-carb treat that captures all the flavors of pizza in a bite-sized form.
Ingredients
Peppers
- 8 mini peppers, halved lengthwise and seeded
Filling
- 1/3 cup pizza sauce (use sugar-free if on a keto diet)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup mini pepperoni slices (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- Prepare peppers: Arrange the halved and seeded mini peppers on the baking sheet, cut side up, ready for stuffing.
- Add pizza sauce: Spoon about a teaspoon of pizza sauce into each pepper half, spreading it evenly to form a flavorful base.
- Add toppings: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the sauce in each pepper, then add a few mini pepperoni slices on top if using.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and started to bubble slightly.
Notes
- For a keto-friendly version, use sugar-free pizza sauce.
- Mini pepperoni is optional; you can substitute with other toppings like olives, mushrooms, or cooked sausage.
- Make sure to seed the mini peppers to avoid excess moisture in the filling.
- Serve warm for the best flavor and texture.
