The vibrant sweetness of mini peppers pairs beautifully with a luscious, savory cream cheese blend in this simple yet show-stopping appetizer. This recipe brings together sharp cheddar, Parmesan, and aromatic spices for a creamy, tangy filling that contrasts perfectly with the natural crunch of the roasted peppers. Perfect for parties, potlucks, or even just a fun snack at home, these Cream Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers are as beautiful as they are delicious. They’re quick to prepare, easy to customize, and deliver big flavor in a small package. Whether you’re hosting guests or just treating yourself, this dish always impresses.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
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1 lb mini sweet peppers
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8 oz cream cheese, softened
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1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
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1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1/4 tsp garlic powder
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1/4 tsp onion powder
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1/4 tsp smoked paprika
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1/4 tsp salt
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1/4 tsp black pepper
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1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Directions:
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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Slice each mini pepper in half lengthwise and remove seeds.
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In a medium bowl, mix cream cheese, cheddar, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
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Spoon or pipe the cheese mixture into each pepper half, smoothing the top.
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Arrange stuffed peppers on the baking sheet.
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Bake for 15–20 minutes, until the cheese is melty and the peppers are tender.
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Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 120 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
Cream Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers: The Perfect Bite-Sized Appetizer for Every Occasion
When it comes to easy, flavorful, and visually appealing appetizers, cream cheese stuffed mini peppers are a winning choice. Whether you’re planning a party, prepping game day snacks, or simply looking for a low-effort side dish or vegetarian-friendly treat, this dish checks every box. With a rich, creamy filling and naturally sweet roasted peppers, each bite delivers the perfect balance of savory and sweet.
In this article, we’ll explore why this simple recipe is such a crowd-pleaser, how you can customize it for different dietary preferences, and why it deserves a permanent spot in your appetizer rotation.
Why Mini Peppers Are the Perfect Base
Mini sweet peppers are ideal for stuffing because they’re small enough to eat in one or two bites yet large enough to hold a generous portion of filling. Their vibrant colors typically red, orange, and yellow instantly make any dish look festive and fresh. Unlike bell peppers, mini sweet peppers are milder and more naturally sweet, making them appealing to both adults and kids.
What’s more, mini peppers hold their shape well when baked. They soften just enough to complement the creamy texture of the cheese filling without becoming soggy or losing their bright hue. That’s why they’re often the go-to option for elegant hors d’oeuvres and appetizers.
The Power of a Cheese-Based Filling
One of the most satisfying components of this dish is the cheese mixture that forms the core of every pepper half. A combination of cream cheese, cheddar, and Parmesan provides the perfect texture: soft, creamy, and gooey once baked. Cream cheese serves as a rich, neutral base, while sharp cheddar adds depth and Parmesan contributes its signature umami punch.
This rich filling contrasts beautifully with the crisp-tender texture of roasted mini peppers. It’s comforting without being heavy, and indulgent without requiring a long list of ingredients or complex techniques.
The best part? It’s endlessly customizable. You can add herbs, spices, chopped nuts, or even a touch of heat with jalapeños or red pepper flakes. This versatility makes the recipe adaptable to any palate or occasion.
A Great Option for Low-Carb or Vegetarian Diets
As more people look for satisfying alternatives to carb-heavy appetizers, cream cheese stuffed mini peppers offer a welcome option. Naturally low in carbs and high in flavor, they are an ideal bite for those following keto or low-carb diets.
They’re also vegetarian, making them a great option for mixed-diet gatherings where you want to ensure there’s something for everyone. You can even make them gluten-free by checking your cheese and seasoning brands, which makes this dish incredibly accessible and inclusive.
Hosting Made Easy
If you’re entertaining, these stuffed peppers are one of the easiest appetizers you can prepare ahead of time. You can make the cheese mixture the day before and keep it in the fridge. You can even stuff the peppers ahead of time and bake them fresh right before serving.
They’re just as good at room temperature as they are fresh out of the oven, which means you won’t be tied to the kitchen while your guests are mingling. Plus, their handheld size makes them easy to eat without utensils perfect for cocktail parties, potlucks, or buffet-style spreads.
Meal Prep and Leftovers
This recipe isn’t just for parties it can be used as part of your meal prep too. Leftover stuffed peppers store well in the fridge and reheat quickly, making them a great snack or side dish throughout the week. Pop them in the microwave for 30 seconds, or reheat in the oven for a few minutes to revive their texture.
You can also chop them up and use them in other dishes. Think: diced over a salad, stirred into scrambled eggs, or tucked into a wrap for an extra layer of flavor. It’s a great way to reduce food waste and get more out of one simple recipe.
Flavor Variations to Try
Once you’ve mastered the basic version of cream cheese stuffed mini peppers, the fun really begins. Here are a few delicious twists to consider:
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Herb Garden Delight: Add chopped chives, dill, or basil to the cheese mixture for a fresh, aromatic flavor.
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Spicy Kick: Mix in diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to give the filling some heat.
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Tex-Mex Style: Add cumin, taco seasoning, and a sprinkle of chili flakes, and top with a few black beans or corn kernels.
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Italian Flair: Stir in some chopped sun-dried tomatoes and oregano, and top with mozzarella.
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Everything Bagel Style: Sprinkle the tops with “everything bagel” seasoning before baking for a fun, trendy twist.
These small changes can make the dish feel brand-new every time, giving you endless possibilities to explore.
Presentation Tips
If you’re serving this dish to guests, a little presentation effort can go a long way. Try arranging the stuffed mini peppers on a large platter in a circular or rainbow pattern to showcase their bright colors. Garnish with fresh parsley, dill, or chives for a burst of green that contrasts beautifully with the golden cheese tops.
You can also serve them alongside a dipping sauce like a light yogurt-herb dip or spicy aioli for guests who want to add even more flavor.
Nutrition and Portion Control
Cream cheese stuffed mini peppers are not only tasty they’re also reasonably healthy. Thanks to the natural sweetness of the peppers, the dish satisfies cravings without added sugar. Plus, because the ingredients are whole and straightforward, it’s easier to control the nutritional value.
Each pepper half typically clocks in at around 30–50 calories, depending on the cheese filling. This makes them easy to fit into a healthy eating plan, even as a mid-afternoon snack or light appetizer before dinner.
Conclusion:
Cream cheese stuffed mini peppers are everything you want in a great appetizer: easy to make, stunning to serve, and satisfying to eat. With minimal prep time, everyday ingredients, and nearly endless customization options, it’s no wonder this dish continues to win over home cooks and guests alike.
Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, a colorful party appetizer, or a make-ahead dish that everyone will love, these stuffed peppers deliver every time. Their sweet, vibrant crunch and creamy, cheesy filling strike the perfect balance between indulgent and wholesome.