Description
This recipe highlights banana peppers stuffed with a creamy cheese mixture and baked to perfection. The balance of tangy peppers and a rich filling makes this dish a delightful treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Peppers:
- Banana peppers: 8 medium-sized
- Olive oil: 1 tbsp (for brushing)
For the Filling:
- Cream cheese (softened): 4 oz
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: 1 cup
- Grated Parmesan cheese: ¼ cup
- Garlic powder: 1 tsp
- Italian seasoning: 1 tsp
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): ½ tsp
- Salt and pepper: To taste
Instructions
-
Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
-
Prepare the Peppers:
- Wash the banana peppers and pat them dry.
- Slice off the tops and remove the seeds and membranes to create a hollow space for the filling.
-
Prepare the Filling:
- In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
-
Stuff the Peppers:
- Spoon the cheese mixture into the hollowed-out banana peppers, filling them completely.
-
Bake the Peppers:
- Place the stuffed peppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Lightly brush the peppers with olive oil to help them brown.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
-
Serve:
- Let the peppers cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or extra Parmesan if desired.
Notes
- For a meaty version, add cooked sausage or ground beef to the filling.
- You can also grill the peppers instead of baking them for a smoky flavor.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer/Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American/Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 peppers
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 360mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
Keywords: Stuffed banana peppers, baked peppers recipe, cheesy appetizers, easy stuffed peppers