Creamy Ricotta Stuffed Peppers for a Savory Vegetarian Delight 🌶️🧀✨
1. Introduction
If you’re searching for a hearty vegetarian stuffed peppers recipe, you’re in for a treat! These stuffed peppers with ricotta are a flavorful, nutritious, and colorful dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer. With their creamy filling and tender peppers, this vegetarian recipe offers a delightful balance of textures and tastes that even meat-eaters will love.
2. Ingredients for the Creamy Ricotta Stuffed Peppers
- 4 large bell peppers (any color)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
3. Step-by-Step Guide to Making Creamy Ricotta Stuffed Peppers
Prepare the Peppers
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Lightly brush the peppers with olive oil and set aside.
Make the Ricotta Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, chopped onion, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended. For a vegan or dairy-free version, you can substitute with plant-based cheeses and dairy alternatives.
Stuff the Peppers
Fill each pepper generously with the ricotta mixture. Place the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish.
Bake the Peppers
Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese filling is golden and bubbly.
Garnish and Serve
Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh basil or parsley, and serve hot. Pair it with a side of peach bruschetta with whipped ricotta for a perfect vegetarian meal.
4. Storage Tips for Leftover Creamy Ricotta Stuffed Peppers
Allow the stuffed peppers to cool completely before storing. Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. These peppers also freeze well, making them a convenient make-ahead dish.
5. Serving Suggestions for Veggie Stuffed Peppers
Serve these vegetarian stuffed peppers with a fresh green salad or some roasted vegetables. For a more substantial meal, add a side of hearty garlic bread or a bowl of soup. They also pair beautifully with cheesy spaghetti bake for a filling vegetarian feast.
6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make vegetarian stuffed peppers ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare and stuff the peppers a day in advance. Keep them covered in the refrigerator and bake when ready to serve to enjoy fresh, hot stuffed peppers with ricotta.
Can I substitute the ricotta cheese?
Yes, for a dairy-free or vegan version, use plant-based ricotta or blended tofu with nutritional yeast for added flavor.
How long does it take to prepare this dish?
Including prep and baking time, this vegetarian recipe takes approximately 45 minutes from start to finish.
Are these stuffed peppers suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free cheeses and seasonings. They are naturally gluten-free.
7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe
- Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master – Make chopping garlic and onion effortless and quick, saving you valuable time in the kitchen!
- Ninja SLUSHi Pro RapidChill Drink Maker – Keep your ingredients fresh and at ideal temperatures while preparing this dish.
- Crock-Pot Family-Size Slow Cooker – Great for making ahead or keeping dishes warm during a gathering.
- CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set – Ensures your baking pans and cooking vessels are high-quality for even heat and easy cleanup.
8. Conclusion
Experience the delicious flavors of vegetarian stuffed peppers with this creamy ricotta filling that’s as easy to make as it is satisfying to eat. This veggie stuffed peppers recipe is versatile, hearty, and perfect for any occasion. Try it today and enjoy a healthy, comforting meal that highlights fresh ingredients and cheesy goodness. Don’t forget to explore more tasty recipes on our site, like the hearty crockpot beef stew or our peach bruschetta with whipped ricotta for culinary inspiration.
9. Final remarks
Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or exploring plant-based options, these creamy ricotta stuffed peppers are sure to become a favorite. Their vibrant appearance and rich flavor will impress family and friends alike. Happy cooking!
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Creamy Ricotta Stuffed Peppers for a Savory Vegetarian Delight
A simple yet flavorful dish of bell peppers stuffed with a creamy ricotta cheese filling, seasoned with herbs and baked to perfection.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 large bell peppers (red, yellow, or green)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup chopped fresh spinach
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
- In a bowl, mix ricotta, Parmesan, spinach, garlic, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Stuff each pepper with the ricotta mixture.
- Place stuffed peppers in a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes until peppers are tender and filling is golden.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.
Notes
- You can add cooked quinoa or pine nuts to the filling for extra texture.
- Use different colored peppers for a vibrant presentation.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Method: Bake
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed pepper
- Calories: 220 Kcal
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 310mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 11g
- Cholesterol: 35mg