Pepper Recipes: There’s something magical about stuffed peppers—they’re colorful, packed with flavor, and turn simple ingredients into a stunning meal. Whether you prefer cheesy Italian-inspired, spicy Thai-style, or protein-packed vegetarian, I’ve perfected 5 foolproof stuffed pepper recipes that always impress.
After years of testing (and plenty of trial and error!), I’ve nailed the best techniques for tender-but-not-mushy peppers with the most delicious fillings. Let’s get stuffing!
Why You’ll Love These Recipes
✅ Customizable – Swap proteins, grains, or cheeses to suit your taste
✅ Meal-prep friendly – Reheat beautifully for lunches
✅ Naturally gluten-free (most versions)
✅ One-pan wonder – Easy cleanup
✅ Crowd-pleasing – Works for weeknights or dinner parties
Pro Tip: Choose peppers with flat bottoms so they stand upright while baking!
1. Italian Sausage & Ricotta Stuffed Pepper Recipes
Creamy, herby perfection with a crispy cheese top
Ingredients (Serves 4):
- 4 large red bell peppers
- 1 lb Italian sausage (casings removed)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep Peppers
- Cut tops off peppers, remove seeds/membranes
- Blanch in boiling water for 2 minutes, then drain
2. Make Filling
- Brown sausage with garlic until cooked through
- Remove from heat, stir in ricotta, Parmesan, and seasoning
3. Stuff & Bake
- Spread ¼ cup marinara in baking dish
- Fill peppers with sausage mixture
- Top with mozzarella and remaining sauce
- Bake at 375°F for 25-30 minutes until bubbly
Serving Idea: Garnish with fresh basil and crusty bread
2. Thai Curry Quinoa Stuffed Pepper Recipe
Bold flavors with a coconut milk kick
Ingredients (Serves 4):
- 4 yellow bell peppers
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 1 (14oz) can coconut milk
- 2 tbsp red curry paste
- 1 cup diced mushrooms
- ½ red bell pepper, diced
- ¼ cup chopped cilantro
- 1 lime (juice + zest)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make Curry Sauce
- Whisk coconut milk with curry paste in saucepan
- Simmer 5 minutes until slightly thickened
2. Prepare Filling
- Sauté mushrooms and diced pepper until soft
- Stir in quinoa, ¾ of curry sauce, and lime zest
3. Bake
- Stuff peppers, drizzle with remaining sauce
- Bake at 375°F for 20 minutes
- Garnish with cilantro and lime juice
Pro Tip: Add shrimp or tofu for extra protein!
3. Mediterranean Chickpea Stuffed Peppers
Bright, fresh flavors with feta & olives
Ingredients (Serves 4):
- 4 orange bell peppers
- 1 (15oz) can chickpeas, drained
- ½ cup crumbled feta
- ¼ cup Kalamata olives, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp oregano
- ½ lemon (juiced)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep Peppers
- Cut in half lengthwise (8 pieces)
- Brush with olive oil, roast cut-side up 10 mins
2. Make Filling
- Mash chickpeas slightly with fork
- Mix with remaining ingredients except ¼ cup feta
3. Finish Baking
- Fill pepper halves, top with reserved feta
- Bake 15 more minutes at 375°F
Serving Idea: Drizzle with tzatziki sauce
FAQs
1. Can I use mini peppers?
→ Yes! Reduce baking time by 10 minutes.
2. How to make vegan versions?
→ Substitute cheese with nutritional yeast or vegan cheese.
3. Best way to reheat?
→ 350°F oven for 15 minutes keeps them crispy.
4. Can I grill instead of bake?
→ Absolutely! Grill over medium heat 15-20 minutes.
5. How to prevent splitting?
→ Don’t overstuff and bake at consistent temperature.
Recipe Variations
Buffalo Chicken Style
Mix shredded chicken with hot sauce and blue cheese
Moroccan Inspired
Use couscous, raisins, and harissa paste
Breakfast Peppers
Stuff with scrambled eggs, spinach, and cheddar
Final Thoughts
Stuffed peppers are the ultimate versatile meal—endlessly adaptable to whatever flavors you’re craving. Which global-inspired version will you try first?
Pro Tip: Save any extra filling for stuffed mushrooms or zucchini!
(Want more? Try my stuffed cabbage rolls or eggplant boats next!) 🌶️🔥
You May Also Like my Juicy Chicken Thigh Recipes
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