Super Bowl Appetizer Stuffed Mini Peppers

Name: Super Bowl Appetizer Stuffed Mini Peppers
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 12 mini sweet peppers; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Occasion Planning

I absolutely love making these Super Bowl Appetizer Stuffed Mini Peppers for game day gatherings. They're colorful, fun to eat, and packed with flavor! Each pepper is filled with a delicious mixture that brings together cream cheese, herbs, and spices, making for a crowd-pleaser. Not only are they easy to prepare, but they also add a vibrant touch to your snack table. If you're looking to impress your guests while keeping things simple, these mini peppers are the way to go!

Created by

Zara Ellington

Last updated on 2026-01-05T20:02:34.776Z

Preparing these stuffed mini peppers was a delightful experience for me. I remember trying different fillings, but the cream cheese combined with fresh herbs truly stood out! The contrast of the sweet peppers with the savory filling makes each bite a flavor explosion that resonates well with friends and family. I love how colorful they look on the serving platter too!

One vital tip I’ve learned over time is to roast the peppers slightly before stuffing them. Doing so enhances their natural sweetness and gives them a wonderful texture. Plus, the roasting process helps ensure that the filling stays warm and creamy. These are definitely a hit every time I serve them!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Vibrant and colorful presentation that brightens up any party platter
Delicious filling that combines creamy texture with zesty flavors
Easy to prepare and always a hit with guests of all ages

      

Perfecting the Stuffed Pepper Technique

When preparing your mini sweet peppers, it's crucial to slice them evenly. Halving them lengthwise allows for a uniform filling and ensures that they cook evenly. If you find that some peppers are larger than others, consider cutting them into thirds or quarters to match the size of the smaller ones. This way, every mini pepper on your platter will provide a consistent eating experience and the right amount of filling to pepper ratio.

When removing the seeds, be careful not to damage the pepper’s integrity. A small spoon or melon baller works wonderfully for this purpose. If you prefer extra flavor, consider roasting the unstuffed peppers for a few minutes before filling them. This will enhance their sweetness and add depth to the overall dish. Just keep a close eye on them to ensure they don’t char.

Variations and Flavor Boosters

Don't hesitate to experiment with the filling! For a spicier kick, mix in some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce. If you want to cater to a vegetarian crowd, consider adding black beans or corn to the cream cheese mixture for additional texture and flavor. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also makes your appetizer a bit heartier and more satisfying.

If you want to switch up the cheese, crumbled feta or goat cheese can add a delightful tang. You could also try adding your favorite herbs, such as dill or parsley, to make these stuffed mini peppers uniquely yours. Just remember to balance strong flavors; a little goes a long way without overpowering the mild sweetness of the peppers.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create these stuffed mini peppers:

Stuffed Mini Peppers Ingredients

12 mini sweet peppers
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to have your ingredients prepped for a smooth cooking experience!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your stuffed mini peppers:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Prepare the Peppers

Slice the mini peppers in half lengthwise and remove the seeds.

Make the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, cheddar cheese, green onions, cilantro, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until well blended.

Stuff the Peppers

Spoon the cheese mixture into each pepper half, filling them generously.

Bake

Arrange the stuffed peppers on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the peppers are tender.

Serve

Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!

These stuffed mini peppers are perfect for parties and gatherings. Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauces!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize the filling with other ingredients like cooked sausage or different types of cheese to make them your own.

Serving Suggestions

These stuffed mini peppers are versatile and can be served warm or at room temperature. If you’re preparing them in advance, just bake them, let them cool, and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll hold up well for about 2-3 days. When ready to serve, you can reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through, maintaining their delightful texture.

To elevate your serving platter, pair these mini peppers with a cool dip, like ranch dressing or tzatziki, to complement their flavor. Fresh veggie sticks or crackers also make great accompaniments, allowing guests to mix and match flavors at their leisure.

Storage and Freezing Tips

If you happen to have leftovers or want to prepare these stuffed mini peppers in advance, they can be frozen. To freeze, cool them completely, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet, and flash freeze for an hour. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. They will keep well for up to three months. When ready to eat, simply bake directly from the freezer at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes until heated through.

For best results, avoid freezing the stuffed peppers before baking to maintain the best flavor and texture. Freshly baked peppers not only taste better, but they also present beautifully, sure to impress your guests on game day or any gathering.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these stuffed mini peppers ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the peppers and filling a day in advance. Just stuff them right before baking.

→ What other types of cheese can I use?

You can use goat cheese, feta, or even mozzarella for a different flavor.

→ Are these peppers gluten-free?

Absolutely! All the ingredients are gluten-free, making them perfect for any dietary needs.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven before serving.