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These colorful bite-sized mini peppers stuffed with velvety cheese filling make an irresistible snack. Each tiny treat balances the natural sweetness of peppers with a rich, tangy filling that'll have your guests grabbing for another one before they've finished the first.
I brought these to my sister's birthday party and they vanished in minutes - everyone was sad there weren't more! Now I always make way more than I think I'll need. The trick is picking peppers about the same size so they cook evenly.
Key Ingredients
- Mini Sweet Peppers: Go for bright, firm ones with no squishy parts
- Cream Cheese: Don't skimp with low-fat - regular makes the creamiest result
- Cheddar Cheese: Grate it yourself for smoother melting
- Fresh Chives: They give a mild oniony kick and pretty green flecks
- Salt and Pepper: Basic seasonings that let the peppers' natural flavor shine
- Optional Garnishes: Sprinkle with extra chives or a dash of paprika for a pop of color
Detailed Instructions
- Step 1:
- Find peppers that match in size for even cooking time
- Step 2:
- Slice peppers down the middle lengthwise, leaving stems on for a nicer look
- Step 3:
- Scoop out seeds and white parts while keeping pepper shape intact
- Step 4:
- Set cream cheese out ahead of time to soften naturally
- Step 5:
- Whip cream cheese until it's completely lump-free
- Step 6:
- Mix in shredded cheese and snipped chives with light strokes
- Step 7:
- Spoon filling into each pepper half, staying a bit below the edge
- Step 8:
- Place peppers on baking sheet with room between them
- Step 9:
- Keep an eye on them while baking - you want just slightly wrinkled edges
- Step 10:
- Cool for 5 minutes before serving to get the best taste
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Stunning Party Planning
These cute peppers look fantastic on snack boards mixed with other finger foods. Their bright colors instantly make any spread more appealing.
Prep-Ahead Convenience
Get them ready the night before, stick them in the fridge, and pop them in the oven just before your guests arrive. The filling actually tastes better after sitting overnight.
My grandma always told me the best party snacks look fancy but are actually super easy to make. These stuffed peppers prove she was totally right.
I've become known for bringing these cheese-filled peppers to every get-together. They show how sometimes the simplest combo - sweet peppers plus creamy cheese - makes the most talked-about dish.
Tasty Twist Ideas
- Italian-Style: Stir in basil pesto, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and herbs
- Mexican-Inspired: Mix with taco spices and pepper jack for heat
- Mediterranean: Blend in crumbled feta, oregano, and olive bits
- Buffalo Style: Add hot sauce and blue cheese chunks
- Garden Fresh: Mix with tiny cucumber pieces and fresh dill sprigs
Serving Temperature Options
- Fresh from oven: Cheese is warm and stretchy
- Room temperature: Flavors come through stronger
- Cold: Extra refreshing during hot weather
- Do-ahead: Can be stuffed and kept cold up to a day before heating
Presentation Ideas
- Group peppers by color for a rainbow effect
- Set small plates and napkins close by
- Add fancy toothpicks for grab-and-go ease
- Offer some tasty dips alongside
- Scatter fresh herb sprigs around the platter
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We found out these are perfect for outdoor meals - they taste just as good when they're not hot and they travel well without making a mess.
These tiny stuffed peppers have become our go-to party food because they're both simple to make and fancy-looking. They work for casual movie nights or dressed-up dinner parties, always bringing smiles with their pretty colors and satisfying cheesy centers.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can these be made in advance?
- Definitely! Stuff them 24 hours early and bake right before eating.
- → How do I reheat any extras?
- Use a 350°F oven for 5-10 minutes or enjoy them cold straight from the fridge.
- → Can regular bell peppers work?
- Sure! Use larger pepper pieces and bake them a little longer, about 5-10 extra minutes.
- → What other cheeses taste good?
- Switch cheddar with gouda, pepper jack, or monterey jack for a twist.
- → Why is the filling spilling out?
- Make sure they sit flat on the pan and don’t overfill them.