Cream Cheese Stuffed Peppers Recipe – A Flavorful Appetizer

Stuffed peppers are a beloved dish that has been enjoyed in different cultures for centuries. Whether it’s Mexican chiles rellenos, Mediterranean dolma, or Italian stuffed peppers, this dish has endless variations. The introduction of cream cheese as a stuffing ingredient brings a rich, creamy texture that pairs perfectly with the natural sweetness of bell peppers or the heat of jalapeños.

If you’re looking for a quick, easy, and delicious appetizer, cream cheese stuffed peppers are a must-try! They can be served hot or cold, customized with different ingredients, and are a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.

Health Benefits of Bell Peppers

Bell peppers are not just delicious—they are packed with essential nutrients that contribute to a healthy diet. According to Healthline, bell peppers are:

Rich in Vitamin C – One pepper provides over 150% of the daily recommended intake.
High in Antioxidants – They contain carotenoids that support eye health and immune function.
Low in Calories – A perfect addition to low-carb and keto-friendly diets.
Great for Digestion – The fiber content aids gut health and promotes satiety.

By incorporating cream cheese stuffed peppers into your diet, you get a delicious yet nutritious snack that balances flavor and health benefits.

Choosing the Right Peppers for Stuffing

The type of pepper you choose plays a big role in the final flavor and texture of this dish. Some peppers are sweet and mild, while others bring the heat!

Best Peppers for Stuffing

How to Pick Fresh Peppers

• Look for firm skin – Wrinkled or soft peppers may be old.
• Choose vibrant colors – Green, red, yellow, and orange peppers all have different levels of sweetness.
• Check the stem – A fresh green stem indicates higher quality and better flavor.

For the best flavor, opt for organic peppers when possible. Need more inspiration? Check out this guide to selecting the freshest produce on Ambitious Foodie.

Classic Cream Cheese Stuffed Peppers Recipe

This simple yet flavorful recipe is a go-to appetizer that can be made in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

10 mini sweet peppers or 5 large bell peppers
8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
½ cup cooked and crumbled bacon (optional)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Peppers

• Wash and dry the peppers.
• Cut them in half lengthwise and remove seeds and membranes.

2. Make the Cream Cheese Filling

• In a bowl, mix together:
  • Cream cheese
  • Shredded cheddar
  • Garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper
  • (Optional) Cooked crumbled bacon for extra flavor

3. Stuff the Peppers

• Using a spoon, fill each pepper half with the cream cheese mixture.
• Smooth out the filling so it’s evenly distributed.

4. Bake the Peppers

• Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Place stuffed peppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Bake for 15–20 minutes or until the tops turn slightly golden.

5. Serve and Enjoy

• Garnish with fresh parsley.
• Serve warm as an appetizer or snack.

Advanced Recipe Variations

Looking to add some bold flavors to your stuffed peppers? Try these delicious variations to customize the recipe based on your preferences.

Bacon-Wrapped Stuffed Peppers

Wrapping stuffed peppers with bacon takes this appetizer to the next level by adding a crispy, smoky flavor.

How to Make It:

Wrap each stuffed pepper with a slice of bacon, securing it with a toothpick.
Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes until bacon is crispy.
Grilling option: Cook on medium heat for 10–15 minutes, turning occasionally for even crispiness.

Pro Tip: Use thin-cut bacon for crispier results.

Air Fryer Mini Peppers Stuffed with Cheese and Sausage

Want a quicker, crispier version? Using an air fryer speeds up the cooking process and enhances the texture.

How to Make It:

Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
Stuff mini peppers with a mix of cream cheese and crumbled sausage.
Air fry for 8–10 minutes until golden brown.

Pro Tip: This method creates a perfect crispy edge while keeping the filling soft and creamy.

Discover more air fryer stuffed pepper recipes.

Stuffed Hot Peppers with Italian Sausage

If you love spicy food, swap out sweet peppers for hot varieties like jalapeños or cherry peppers.

How to Balance Heat & Creaminess:

Use mild Italian sausage for a balanced spice level.
Mix in extra cream cheese to tone down the heat.
Top with shredded mozzarella to add a gooey, mild cheese contrast.

Pro Tip: Serve with cooling dips like ranch dressing or sour cream.

Tips for Perfect Stuffed Peppers

1. Preventing Soggy Peppers

Pre-bake large bell peppers at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes before stuffing.
Drain excess liquid from cooked ingredients like sausage or spinach.

2. Achieving the Right Filling Consistency

Use full-fat cream cheese—it holds up better during baking.
Avoid overstuffing to prevent the filling from spilling out.

3. Ensuring Even Cooking

Arrange peppers in a single layer on a baking sheet.
Use uniform-sized peppers to ensure even baking.

Serving & Presentation Ideas

Make your stuffed peppers look as amazing as they taste with these serving tips.

Garnish with:

• Fresh parsley or basil for a vibrant color contrast.
• A sprinkle of red pepper flakes for extra heat.

Arrange on Platters for Parties:

• Use a wooden charcuterie board for a rustic look.
• Serve on mini skewers for a fun finger-food option.

Accompaniments & Side Dishes:

• Dips: Ranch dressing, garlic aioli, or sriracha mayo.
• Sides: Roasted veggies, grilled chicken, or fresh salad.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I Prepare Stuffed Peppers in Advance?

Yes! Assemble the stuffed peppers up to 24 hours in advance, store them in the fridge, and bake when needed.

2. How Do I Store & Reheat Leftovers?

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat:

• Oven: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes.
• Air Fryer: Heat at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes.

3. Can I Freeze Cream Cheese Stuffed Peppers?

Yes! Follow these steps for best results:
Freeze uncooked stuffed peppers in a single layer on a baking sheet.
Once frozen, transfer them to a ziplock bag and store for up to 3 months.
To cook from frozen: Add an extra 5–7 minutes to the baking time.

4. What Are Some Vegetarian Filling Options?

Spinach & Ricotta – A creamy, healthy alternative.
Mushroom & Cheese – Adds a deep, umami flavor.
Black Beans & Corn – Great for a Mexican-style version.

5. How Can I Make the Dish Spicier or Milder?

To make it spicier: Add diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper to the filling.
To make it milder: Use sweet peppers and mix in more cream cheese to balance flavors.

Final Thoughts

Cream cheese stuffed peppers are a versatile, easy-to-make appetizer that can be customized in endless ways. Whether you go for bacon-wrapped, spicy stuffed jalapeños, or air-fried mini peppers, this dish is sure to be a crowd favorite!

Try these different variations, get creative with the fillings, and let us know your favorite version!