Stuffed Cherry Pepper Recipes for Easy Appetizers

Stuffed cherry peppers are a delightful and vibrant appetizer that can elevate any meal or gathering. These petite peppers, bursting with a perfect balance of sweetness and heat, are ideal vessels for a variety of flavorful fillings.

Whether you prefer a creamy cheese blend, a savory meat stuffing, or a fresh herb and grain filling, stuffed cherry peppers offer endless versatility and charm. Their bright red color and slightly tangy taste make them not only delicious but visually appealing, perfect for impressing guests or simply treating yourself.

In this post, we’ll explore several delectable stuffed cherry pepper recipes that are easy to make and sure to become favorites. From classic Italian-inspired fillings to creative vegan options, you’ll discover how to craft these little bites of joy with simple ingredients and straightforward techniques.

Ready to dive into a world of flavor wrapped in a cherry pepper? Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Stuffed cherry peppers are a culinary treasure for many reasons. First, they’re incredibly versatile; you can customize the filling to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.

Their bite-sized nature makes them perfect finger foods for parties, snacks, or even as part of a light lunch.

Additionally, they combine a lovely contrast of textures—the crisp, slightly spicy pepper skin envelops a rich, creamy, or savory filling, creating an irresistible mouthfeel. They also hold up well for make-ahead preparation, which is perfect for busy days or entertaining.

Finally, stuffed cherry peppers are packed with nutrients and flavor, making them a wholesome and satisfying choice.

Ingredients

• 20-25 cherry peppers (medium-sized, fresh)
• 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 tbsp fresh basil (chopped)
• 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
• Salt and black pepper (to taste)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Optional: 1/4 cup cooked quinoa or couscous (for a heartier filling)
• Optional: 1/2 cup cooked Italian sausage or chopped sun-dried tomatoes

Equipment

• Cutting board
• Sharp paring knife
• Mixing bowl
• Spoon or small spatula
• Baking sheet or oven-safe dish
• Parchment paper (optional)
• Oven or air fryer
• Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Prepare the cherry peppers: Using a sharp paring knife, carefully slice off the tops of each pepper. Remove the seeds and membranes inside to reduce heat and create space for the filling. Rinse and pat dry.
3. Make the filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, Parmesan, minced garlic, chopped basil, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until creamy and smooth. If using cooked quinoa or sausage, fold them in at this stage.
4. Stuff the peppers: Using a small spoon or spatula, fill each cherry pepper cavity generously with the cheese mixture. Avoid overfilling to prevent spilling during baking.
5. Arrange the stuffed peppers upright on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each pepper.
6. Drizzle olive oil lightly over the peppers to help them roast beautifully and add flavor.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the peppers are tender and the cheese filling is bubbly and golden.
8. Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
9. Serve warm or at room temperature as a delightful appetizer or side dish.

Tips & Variations

For milder peppers, you can soak the cherry peppers in cold water for 10 minutes before slicing to tone down the heat.

Here are some creative ideas to customize your stuffed cherry peppers:

• Vegan version: Use vegan cream cheese and mozzarella alternatives. Add cooked lentils or seasoned tofu crumble for protein.
• Herb-packed: Mix fresh parsley, oregano, and thyme with the cheese filling for extra aroma.
• Spicy kick: Add finely chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the filling.
• Seafood twist: Combine cream cheese with cooked crab meat or smoked salmon for an elegant appetizer.
• Grainy texture: Incorporate cooked rice, couscous, or quinoa to make the filling more substantial.
• Stuff with nuts: Add chopped toasted pine nuts or walnuts for crunch.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Stuffed cherry peppers are incredibly versatile and pair wonderfully with many dishes. They make a perfect appetizer for cocktail parties, tapas nights, or holiday gatherings.

Serve them alongside a fresh green salad such as the Baby Spinach Salad Recipe Vegan: Fresh & Easy Ideas for a light and refreshing contrast. For a heartier meal, pair with crusty bread and a bowl of soup like the Vegan Potato Corn Chowder Recipe for Cozy Comfort Food.

They also work beautifully as part of an antipasto platter with olives, marinated vegetables, and cheeses. For a Mediterranean-inspired feast, add them to your table alongside dishes like Afghan Vegetarian Pulao Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide.

Conclusion

Stuffed cherry peppers are a small but mighty dish that brings tremendous flavor and charm to your table. Their versatility allows you to experiment with various fillings, whether you prefer cheesy, meaty, or plant-based options.

They are simple to prepare and perfect for any occasion, from casual snacking to elegant entertaining.

With their vibrant appearance and mouthwatering taste, these stuffed peppers are sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Don’t hesitate to try out the tips and variations to make the recipe your own.

And if you love exploring easy, delicious, and healthy recipes, be sure to check out other fantastic dishes like the Afghan Vegetarian Pulao Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide or the Baby Spinach Salad Recipe Vegan: Fresh & Easy Ideas.

Happy cooking and enjoy these flavorful stuffed cherry peppers any time you crave a burst of taste and color!

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