These adorable Stuffed Mini Peppers are packed with flavor and make a perfect appetizer or snack! Filled with a creamy, cheesy mixture, they’re baked to perfection and ready in no time. Great for parties, meal prep, or just a tasty bite, these mini peppers are versatile and customizable. Add your favorite herbs and spices for a personalized touch that suits any palate.
Makes 6 Servings
Ingredients
- 12 mini peppers
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 small onion, grated (with juice)
- 1 large egg white
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella
- Chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray a baking sheet with olive oil spray.
2. Prepare the Beef Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, salt, black pepper, paprika, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, ground cumin, grated onion (with juice), and egg white. Mix until well combined using your hands or a spatula.
3. Prepare the Peppers
Slice each mini pepper in half lengthwise and remove the seeds. For tips on preparing mini peppers, refer to this guide.
4. Stuff the Peppers
Fill each pepper half with the ground beef mixture, pressing gently to ensure the filling stays in place. Leave the top flat for an attractive presentation.
5. Bake
Place the stuffed peppers on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes, or until the peppers are softened and the beef is cooked through. For baking tips, check out this baking guide.
6. Add Cheese
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella over the stuffed peppers and return them to the oven. Bake for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve
Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired. Serve hot as an appetizer, snack, or alongside your favorite side dishes.
Recipe Notes
- Adjust Salt: You can add more salt to the beef mixture to taste, keeping in mind that the cheese adds some saltiness.
- Onion Substitute: If using onion powder instead of fresh onion, use 2 tsp onion powder.
- Grating Tip: To make grating the onion easier, freeze it for 15 minutes before grating.
Nutrition Information (per serving of 2 peppers/4 halves)
- Calories: 192
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 56mg
- Sodium: 314mg
- Potassium: 408mg
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 3g
- Protein: 18g
- Vitamin A: 38.2%
- Vitamin C: 88.3%
- Calcium: 7.2%
- Iron: 13.3%
Tips for Perfect Stuffed Mini Peppers
- Choose Fresh Peppers: Select firm mini peppers without any soft spots or blemishes for the best texture.
- Customize the Filling: Feel free to substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Add Extra Veggies: Incorporate finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini into the beef mixture for added nutrition.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or feta for varied flavors.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Stuffed Mini Peppers are not only visually appealing but also incredibly versatile and easy to prepare. The combination of seasoned ground beef and melted cheese creates a satisfying bite that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing snacks for the week, or looking for a quick meal option, these mini peppers deliver on taste and convenience.
Try It Today!
Ready to elevate your appetizer game? Bake a batch of these Stuffed Mini Peppers and enjoy a delightful combination of flavors and textures. Perfect for gatherings, meal prepping, or a simple yet tasty snack, these peppers are sure to impress. Don’t forget to share your culinary creations and let us know how much you love this delicious recipe!