It was the annual family reunion, and I knew I had to bring something special to the table. As I browsed through recipe ideas, the Goat Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers instantly caught my eye. I remembered how much my cousin Lily loved the creamy, tangy flavor of goat cheese, and these bite-sized peppers seemed like the perfect way to incorporate it. So, I decided to give it a shot, and let me tell you, it was a total hit! Everyone was raving about the Goat Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers, and I couldn’t believe how easy they were to make. From the first crunchy bite to the smooth, indulgent filling, it was a flavor explosion in my mouth. Needless to say, this recipe has become a go-to for me whenever I need to bring something delicious to a gathering.
Why This Goat Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Goat Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers
This Goat Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers recipe is truly special because it strikes the perfect balance between savory, creamy, and crunchy. The key is in the method – by roasting the mini peppers to get a nice char on the outside, you create a delightful contrast with the smooth, tangy goat cheese filling. Plus, this recipe yields 24 stuffed mini peppers, so it’s perfect for entertaining or as a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
To make these Goat Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers, you’ll need:
- 24 mini bell peppers, halved and seeded
- 8 ounces of creamy goat cheese
- 2 tablespoons of fresh chopped herbs (like parsley, basil, or chives)
- 1 clove of garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Goat Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers Instructions
Preparing Your Goat Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers
This recipe takes 25 minutes total – 10 minutes for prep and 15 minutes for cooking. You’ll need a baking sheet, a mixing bowl, and a piping bag or spoon for assembling the stuffed peppers. Let’s get started!
1- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2- Cut the mini bell peppers in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes. Arrange the pepper halves on the prepared baking sheet.
3- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the 8 ounces of creamy goat cheese, 2 tablespoons of fresh chopped herbs, and 1 minced garlic clove. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4- Transfer the goat cheese mixture to a piping bag or spoon it directly into the pepper halves, filling them evenly.
5- Bake the Goat Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers for 15 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the filling is heated through.
6- Carefully transfer the stuffed peppers to a serving platter and enjoy warm.
Pro Tips for Success
- For an extra flavor boost, try adding a sprinkle of smoked paprika or crushed red pepper flakes to the goat cheese mixture.
- If you’re short on time, you can prepare the filling in advance and stuff the peppers just before baking.
- Be sure not to overfill the pepper halves, as the goat cheese filling will expand during baking.
Serving and Storing Your Goat Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers
Perfect Pairings for Goat Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers
These Goat Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers make a fantastic appetizer or side dish. Serve them alongside a crisp white wine, a refreshing salad, or as part of a charcuterie board. They’re also a great addition to any party or holiday spread. Remember, this recipe yields 24 stuffed mini peppers, with each serving being 2 stuffed mini peppers.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Leftover Goat Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through. For make-ahead convenience, you can prepare the goat cheese filling in advance and stuff the peppers just before baking.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Goat Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers
Creative Goat Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous, try experimenting with different flavor combinations. For example, you could swap the goat cheese for a creamy, herbed ricotta or a blend of cheeses. You could also add a sprinkle of crumbled bacon or diced sun-dried tomatoes to the filling. During the summer, try using a mixture of colorful mini peppers for a vibrant presentation.
Making Goat Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers Diet-Friendly
For a gluten-free version, simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour to bind the filling, if desired. To make these Goat Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers vegan, you can use a plant-based cream cheese or a cashew-based cheese alternative in place of the goat cheese. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use regular-sized bell peppers instead of mini peppers?
A: Absolutely! If you can’t find mini peppers, you can certainly use regular-sized bell peppers. Just be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly, as larger peppers may require a few extra minutes in the oven.
Q: How many servings does this recipe make?
A: This recipe makes exactly 24 stuffed mini peppers, with each serving being 2 stuffed mini peppers.
Q: Can I make these Goat Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the goat cheese filling in advance and stuff the peppers just before baking. The assembled, unbaked stuffed peppers can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours before cooking.
Q: What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
A: To reheat leftover Goat Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers, simply place them on a baking sheet and warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through.
Q: Can I use a different type of cheese instead of goat cheese?
A: Absolutely! While the tangy flavor of goat cheese is delicious, you can certainly experiment with other soft cheeses, such as cream cheese, feta, or even a blend of cheeses.
Goat Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers
- Total Time: 25
- Yield: 24 stuffed mini peppers
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in these Goat Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers – a delightful and easy-to-make appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion. The creamy, flavorful goat cheese filling perfectly complements the crisp, vibrant pepper shells for a bite-sized treat that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients
– 12 mini bell peppers, halved and seeded
– 4 oz. soft goat cheese
– 2 tbsp. fresh chopped herbs (such as parsley, basil, or chives)
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/4 tsp. salt
– 1/8 tsp. black pepper
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the goat cheese, herbs, garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Carefully spoon or pipe the goat cheese mixture into the hollowed-out mini pepper halves.
4. Arrange the stuffed peppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the peppers are slightly softened and the filling is warmed through.
6. Serve the Goat Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers warm and enjoy!
Notes
For a bit of extra flavor, you can sprinkle a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes over the top of the stuffed peppers before baking. You can also experiment with different herb combinations or add a drizzle of honey for a touch of sweetness.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 15
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
Goat Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers are the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer that are sure to impress your guests. With their irresistible combination of crunchy peppers and creamy, flavorful filling, these bite-sized treats are a real showstopper. Give this recipe a try, and get ready to receive rave reviews. Don’t forget to let me know what you think in the comments below – I’d love to hear your thoughts!
