Creamy Ricotta-Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe
Delicious and creamy ricotta stuffed bell peppers baked to tender perfection, enhanced with fresh herbs for a flavorful vegetarian appetizer or light meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 stuffed peppers (serves 2-4) 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 4 large bell peppers (any color)
Filling
- 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Peppers: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the bell peppers and carefully remove the seeds and membranes to create hollow shells ready for stuffing.
- Make the Filling: In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, chopped fresh herbs (parsley and basil), salt, black pepper, and Parmesan cheese if using. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated.
- Stuff the Peppers: Spoon the ricotta mixture evenly into each hollowed bell pepper, pressing gently to fill completely without overstuffing.
- Bake: Place the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish. Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the peppers are tender and the filling is slightly golden on top.
- Serve: Let the peppers cool for a few minutes before serving. These are perfect as a vegetarian main or a hearty appetizer.
Notes
- You can add chopped spinach or sautéed mushrooms to the ricotta filling for more texture and flavor.
- Use a mix of bell pepper colors for a more visually appealing dish.
- For a vegan option, substitute ricotta with plant-based cheese alternatives.
- Leftover stuffed peppers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently in the oven.
Keywords: ricotta stuffed peppers, baked peppers, vegetarian stuffed peppers, Italian appetizer, cheese stuffed peppers
