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Colorful mini peppers filled with smooth cheese create a crowd-pleasing finger food. These tasty two-bite treats balance sweet pepper crunch with a rich, savory filling that'll have everyone grabbing 'just one more.'
The first time I brought these to a family party, they vanished so fast I kicked myself for not doubling the batch. Now I always make extra - they're that good. My trick? Picking peppers roughly the same size so they cook evenly.
Key Ingredients
- Mini Sweet Peppers: Go for crisp, vibrant ones without any mushy parts
- Cream Cheese: Regular fat content gives you the creamiest result
- Cheddar Cheese: Grate it yourself instead of buying pre-shredded for better melting
- Fresh Chives: Brings mild oniony flavor and pretty green flecks
- Salt and Pepper: Basic seasonings that let the natural pepper sweetness come through
- Optional Garnishes: Snipped chives or a dash of paprika makes them look fancy
Step-By-Step Directions
- Step 1:
- Find peppers with matching sizes for even cooking times
- Step 2:
- Slice peppers down the middle, leaving stems on for a prettier look
- Step 3:
- Scoop out seeds and white bits while keeping the pepper shape intact
- Step 4:
- Set cream cheese out until it's soft to touch for easier mixing
- Step 5:
- Whip cream cheese until it's completely lump-free before mixing in other stuff
- Step 6:
- Mix in shredded cheese and chives with a light hand to keep some texture
- Step 7:
- Spoon filling into each pepper half just below the top to avoid spillage
- Step 8:
- Leave some room between peppers on the baking sheet for proper heat circulation
- Step 9:
- Keep an eye on them while cooking - the edges should just start to pucker
- Step 10:
- Cool them for 5 minutes after baking to let flavors settle
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Stunning Party Presentation
These peppers look amazing on snack boards next to other bite-sized foods. Their bright colors catch everyone's eye immediately.
Do-Ahead Convenience
Fix everything a day early, stick it in the fridge, and just pop them in the oven before company arrives. The filling actually gets tastier overnight.
My grandma always told me the best party snacks look fancy but aren't complicated to make. These stuffed peppers prove she was right every single time.
These cheese-filled peppers have become my go-to party snack. They show how sometimes the easiest pairings - sweet peppers with creamy cheese - make the most unforgettable bites.
Tasty Twist Options
- Italian-Style: Stir in basil pesto, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and herbs
- Mexican-Inspired: Mix with taco spices and swap in pepper jack
- Mediterranean: Blend in crumbled feta, oregano, and diced olives
- Buffalo Style: Add hot sauce and blue cheese bits
- Garden Fresh: Mix in tiny-diced cucumber with fresh dill
Serving Temperature Guide
- Straight from the oven: Cheese is wonderfully melty inside
- Room temperature: Flavors really pop
- Cold: Super refreshing when it's hot outside
- Prep ahead: Can sit filled in your fridge up to a day before baking
Presentation Ideas
- Group peppers by their colors for a rainbow effect
- Set out small plates and napkins nearby
- Put out fancy toothpicks for easy grabbing
- Offer a few dipping sauces on the side
- Sprinkle with fresh herb snippings for a pretty finish
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We found out these make awesome picnic food - they're just as yummy at room temp and don't make a mess when traveling.
These stuffed mini peppers have become our family's favorite party food because they're both easy and impressive. Whether you're having a casual backyard hangout or fancy dinner party, guests always love their bright colors and creamy, delicious filling.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Is it possible to prep these early?
- Absolutely! You can fill the peppers up to a day before and bake them when you're ready.
- → How should I warm up leftovers?
- Pop them back in the oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes, or just enjoy them chilled.
- → Can regular bell peppers work for this?
- Sure! Just slice them into larger sections and bake a bit longer—another 5-10 minutes should do.
- → What cheese varieties could I swap in?
- Test it out with pepper jack, gouda, or monterey jack to try fresh flavors.
- → Why is my filling spilling out?
- Make sure the peppers are steady on the tray and don’t overload them.