Ingredients
Scale
For the Stuffed Mini Peppers:
- 10 mini sweet bell peppers (cut in half lengthwise, seeds removed)
- 6 ounces goat cheese (softened to room temperature)
- 2 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for brushing peppers)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional, for brightness)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Optional Toppings:
- ¼ cup panko breadcrumbs (for a crispy topping)
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- Honey drizzle (for added sweetness)
- Crushed red pepper flakes (for a spicy kick)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Mini Peppers
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
- Wash the mini sweet bell peppers thoroughly, then slice them in half lengthwise. Remove the seeds and membranes, leaving a hollow cavity for the filling.
- Arrange the pepper halves cut side up on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly brush the peppers with olive oil to help them roast evenly.
Step 2: Make the Goat Cheese Filling
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the goat cheese, cream cheese, minced garlic, chopped parsley, chopped chives, lemon zest (if using), salt, and black pepper.
- Mix the ingredients together using a fork or hand mixer until the filling is smooth and well combined. Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
Step 3: Fill the Mini Peppers
- Use a small spoon or piping bag to fill each pepper half with the goat cheese mixture. Make sure to slightly mound the filling so that it generously fills the cavity.
- If desired, sprinkle the tops with panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese for a crispy, golden topping.
Step 4: Bake the Stuffed Peppers
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the peppers for 18-20 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese filling is slightly golden on top.
- For extra crispiness, you can broil the peppers on high for 1-2 minutes at the end of the baking time.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Remove the peppers from the oven and let them cool for 5 minutes.
- Garnish with additional fresh parsley or chives, and drizzle with honey or sprinkle with red pepper flakes for added flavor, if desired.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2-3 stuffed peppers per person
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 3g
- Fat: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g