Healthy Stuffed Mini Peppers
A quick, low-carb appetizer featuring mini peppers stuffed with creamy herb-infused cheese. Perfect served raw for crunch or baked for a warm, savory treat. High in protein, fiber, and good fats, this snack is colorful, nutritious, and ready in minutes.
Equipment
- 1 Medium mixing bowl
- 1 fork (for mixing)
- 1 sharp knife
- 1 baking sheet (if baking)
- Parchment paper (for oven option)
- 1 spoon or small spatula (for filling peppers)
Ingredients
- 5 large mini peppers approximately 230g / ½ pound
- ⅔ cup cream cheese 165g, softened
- ⅛ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley minced
- ⅛ teaspoon salt
- ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
- Olive oil for drizzling (optional, if baking)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling: Begin by placing the softened cream cheese into a medium-sized mixing bowl. Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature, as this will make it easier to blend smoothly. Add the garlic powder, freshly chopped chives, minced parsley, salt, and black pepper to the bowl. Using a fork, gently combine all ingredients, folding and pressing the mixture until it is completely smooth and evenly seasoned. Taste a small amount to check for balance and adjust salt or herbs if needed. Set the filling aside while you prepare the peppers.
- Wash and Prepare the Mini Peppers: Rinse the mini peppers thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt or residues. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towel. Cut the top stem off each pepper carefully using a sharp knife. Slice each pepper lengthwise down the middle to create two halves. Using a small spoon or your fingers, gently remove all seeds and membranes from inside each half. This ensures the peppers are clean and ready to hold the cream cheese filling.
- Stuff the Peppers: Take a spoonful of the prepared cream cheese mixture and gently fill each pepper half, pressing slightly to ensure the filling stays in place. For smaller bite-sized portions, you may slice each pepper half in half again. Make sure the filling reaches all corners of the pepper cavity for a consistent flavor in every bite. Arrange the stuffed peppers on a serving platter if serving raw, or on a parchment-lined baking sheet if you plan to bake them.
- Serve Raw Option: For a quick and refreshing snack, serve the stuffed mini peppers immediately. The peppers will be crisp and the cream cheese filling creamy and flavorful. This version is perfect for enjoying a crunchy texture and fresh herb aroma. They are ideal for a healthy, low-carb, high-protein snack or as part of an appetizer spread.
- Preheat Oven for Baking: If you prefer a warm, soft, and slightly caramelized version, preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. Optionally, lightly drizzle a small amount of olive oil over the stuffed peppers to enhance browning and add extra richness.
- Bake the Stuffed Peppers: Place the prepared peppers on the baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one to ensure even cooking. Bake in the preheated oven for 15–20 minutes. Keep an eye on them the peppers should become tender and slightly golden, while the cream cheese filling melts and starts to bubble.Use a spatula to gently transfer the peppers to a serving plate when done, taking care not to break the delicate filling.
- Serve Hot or Cool: Serve the baked stuffed mini peppers immediately for a comforting, warm appetizer. Alternatively, allow them to cool slightly before serving. If not eating right away, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. These baked peppers can also be frozen for up to 3 months, making them a convenient make-ahead snack or side dish.
Notes
- Choose fresh, firm mini peppers without wrinkles or soft spots for the best crunch.
- Use room-temperature cream cheese for smooth, easy-to-mix filling.
- The recipe works both raw (crunchy) or baked (warm and soft).
- For bite-sized portions, quarter the peppers after stuffing—ideal for parties or kids’ snacks.
- Adjust herbs, garlic, and seasoning to suit your personal taste.
- Lightly drizzle olive oil over peppers before baking to enhance flavor and browning.
- Avoid overfilling to prevent cheese from spilling during baking.
