Savory, colorful, and utterly delicious, these stuffed mini peppers with beef are the perfect appetizer or party snack. Simple to make yet impressive to serve, they’re sure to be a hit.
Why This Recipe Works
- The combination of sweet mini peppers and savory beef creates a perfect balance of flavors.
- Mini peppers are the ideal size for appetizers, making them easy to eat in one bite.
- This recipe is versatile, allowing for various substitutions to suit dietary preferences.
- Preparing the beef filling in advance saves time, making assembly a breeze.
- Baking the peppers brings out their natural sweetness, enhancing the overall taste.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 20 mini sweet peppers, halved and seeded
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika
Equipment Needed
- Baking sheet
- Mixing bowls
- Skillet
- Knife and cutting board
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Peppers
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Wash the mini peppers, then cut them in half lengthwise and remove the seeds. Arrange them on a baking sheet, cut side up, and drizzle lightly with olive oil. This helps them soften and caramelize slightly in the oven.
Step 2: Cook the Beef Filling
In a skillet over medium heat, add 1 tbsp olive oil. Sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until soft, about 3 minutes. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until no longer pink. Drain any excess fat, then stir in the breadcrumbs, salt, pepper, and paprika. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Step 3: Stuff the Peppers
Once the beef mixture has cooled a bit, spoon it into each pepper half. Don’t overfill; just a heaping teaspoon per pepper half is perfect. Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top of each stuffed pepper.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden. Keep an eye on them to prevent the cheese from burning.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Let the stuffed peppers cool for a few minutes before serving. They’re delicious warm or at room temperature, making them perfect for any occasion.
Tips and Tricks
For an extra flavor boost, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the beef mixture. If you’re short on time, pre-made breadcrumbs work just as well as fresh. To make this dish ahead of time, prepare the beef filling and store it in the fridge overnight, then stuff and bake the peppers when ready. For a crispier topping, broil the peppers for the last 2 minutes of baking. Always let the peppers sit for a few minutes after baking; they’ll be easier to handle and the flavors will meld beautifully.
Recipe Variations
- For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with quinoa or lentils.
- Add diced tomatoes or corn to the beef mixture for extra texture and flavor.
- Experiment with different cheeses, like pepper jack for a spicy kick or feta for a tangy twist.
- For a low-carb option, omit the breadcrumbs and use almond flour instead.
- Top the baked peppers with a dollop of sour cream or guacamole for added richness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these stuffed peppers ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the beef filling and even stuff the peppers a day in advance. Just cover and refrigerate them, then bake when ready to serve. This makes them a great option for entertaining.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftover stuffed peppers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Can I freeze stuffed mini peppers?
Yes, these peppers freeze well. After baking, let them cool completely, then freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag. Reheat in the oven straight from frozen.
Summary
These stuffed mini peppers with beef are a delightful, flavorful appetizer that’s perfect for any gathering. Easy to make and customizable, they’re sure to please any crowd.
