Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

If you’re looking for a delightful recipe that brings comfort and flavor to your table, you’ve found it! These Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers are a true favorite in my kitchen. Filled with creamy ricotta and fresh herbs, they make a perfect dish for busy weeknights or family gatherings. The vibrant colors of the peppers and the cheesy filling bring joy to every meal, whether it’s a casual dinner or a special occasion.

The best part? You can whip these up in under an hour! They’re not just delicious; they are also packed with nutrients from fresh spinach and herbs. Trust me, once you try these Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers, they’ll become a staple in your recipe rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This dish comes together quickly, making it perfect for those busy evenings when you need something tasty without the fuss.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will love the cheesy goodness of these stuffed peppers. It’s a fun way to get everyone to eat their veggies!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare these in advance and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. Perfect for meal prep!
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of creamy ricotta, sharp parmesan, and fresh herbs creates a mouthwatering experience that is hard to resist.
• Versatile Options: You can easily customize this recipe with whatever veggies or spices you have on hand for endless variations.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These herby ricotta stuffed peppers are made with simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Let’s gather everything we need!

For the Peppers

• 4 bell peppers (any color)
• 1 Tbsp olive oil (15 mL)

For the Filling

• 4 cups fresh spinach
• 1 15-oz tub ricotta cheese (425 g)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated parmesan (56 g)
• ½ cup sliced green onions (about 4 green onions)
• ½ cup chopped fresh basil
• 1 handful chopped flat-leaf parsley

Seasonings

• 1 tsp each of dried rosemary, dried thyme, fennel seed, and salt (roughly smash the fennel seeds to release their flavor)
• ½ tsp pepper

For Binding

• 2 large eggs

For Topping

• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• 1 Tbsp oil

Variations

One of the great things about this recipe is how flexible it is! Feel free to experiment and make it your own with these fun ideas:

• Swap the cheese: If you’re not a fan of ricotta, try using cottage cheese or cream cheese for a different texture.
• Add some heat: Want a little spice? Toss in some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños into the filling.
• Mix in more veggies: Add chopped zucchini, mushrooms, or even corn to boost nutrition and flavor.
• Change up the herbs: Use whatever fresh herbs you have on hand—oregano or cilantro could offer exciting new flavors!

How to Make Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

Step 1: Prepare the Peppers

Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). Cut four bell peppers in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and ribs. It’s important to brush them with olive oil before baking so they don’t dry out. Place them cut side up on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for about 20 minutes until they start to soften. Drain any water that collects inside after baking. This helps keep your filling from becoming watery!

Step 2: Mix the Filling

While those peppers are baking, let’s get our filling ready! Microwave four cups of fresh spinach for just about 15-30 seconds until it wilts down. Roughly chop it up before combining it with all the other filling ingredients in a large bowl. Mixing everything together well ensures every bite is bursting with flavor.

Step 3: Stuff the Peppers

Now comes the fun part—stuffing! Take that delicious ricotta mixture and fill each pepper evenly. Press down gently so they are nicely packed but be careful not to overfill them.

Step 4: Add Topping

In a small bowl, combine half a cup of breadcrumbs with one tablespoon of oil. This topping gives your stuffed peppers a nice crunch! Sprinkle this mixture evenly over each pepper for that extra layer of texture.

Step 5: Bake Again

Return those beautifully stuffed peppers to the oven and bake at 350°F (176°C) for about another 30 minutes. If they’re not golden brown yet, turn on the broiler but keep an eye on them—it won’t take more than a minute or two!

And there you have it—delicious Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers ready to enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

Making stuffed peppers can be a breeze with just a few helpful tips! Here are some pointers to ensure your dish turns out delicious every time.

• Choose ripe peppers: Opt for firm, brightly colored bell peppers. They not only taste better but also add a vibrant touch to your meal.

• Don’t skip the pre-bake: Baking the peppers before stuffing them helps soften them and allows them to absorb more flavor from the filling, resulting in a more delicious bite.

• Experiment with herbs: Feel free to mix up the fresh herbs based on what you have on hand. Thyme, oregano, or even dill can bring different flavors that make this dish uniquely yours!

• Add vegetables: Sneak in extra nutrition by incorporating finely chopped zucchini or mushrooms into the filling. They’ll blend seamlessly and enhance both texture and flavor.

• Make ahead: If you’re short on time, prepare the stuffing and fill the peppers ahead of time. Just pop them in the oven when you’re ready to eat!

How to Serve Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

These herby ricotta stuffed peppers are not only a feast for the eyes but also provide endless serving possibilities. Whether you want to keep it simple or dress it up, here’s how to present your dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Fresh basil leaves: Adding a few whole basil leaves on top of the stuffed peppers provides a lovely pop of color and an aromatic touch.
• Drizzle of olive oil: A light drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil enhances flavor and gives your dish a glossy finish.

Side Dishes

• Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad with crisp greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the stuffed peppers perfectly.

• Quinoa Pilaf: This nutty side dish adds texture and is packed with protein. Toss in some nuts and dried fruits for an added crunch and sweetness.

• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread serves as a delightful accompaniment, perfect for soaking up any leftover filling or sauce from your plate.

• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies such as zucchini, carrots, or broccoli add color and nutrients while balancing out the meal nicely.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll create an inviting dining experience that showcases your flavorful herby ricotta stuffed peppers! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These herby ricotta stuffed peppers are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare them in advance, store them, and enjoy a delicious, healthy dish throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover stuffed peppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will keep well for up to 3 days.
• When storing, place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the stuffed peppers cool completely.
• Wrap each pepper tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen peppers overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F (176°C) for about 20 minutes until heated through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave them on a microwave-safe plate for about 2-3 minutes on high.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers that might help you out!

Can I use different types of cheese in Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match different cheeses based on your preference. Cream cheese or goat cheese would also work beautifully alongside the ricotta.

How can I make Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers vegan?

To make this dish vegan, substitute the ricotta with a plant-based alternative and replace the eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water per egg). Use nutritional yeast for added flavor!

What herbs can I add to Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers?

You can customize the herbs according to your taste! Fresh oregano or dill would complement the filling nicely. Experiment with other fresh herbs you love!

How long do Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers take to cook?

From prep to table, this recipe takes about one hour. It’s a quick and satisfying option for busy weeknights!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these herby ricotta stuffed peppers! They’re not only delicious but also versatile and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re prepping meals for the week or wanting to impress at dinner parties, these peppers are sure to delight. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to share your creations!