Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

Introduction to Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

As a busy mom, I totally understand the struggle of getting dinner on the table while juggling a million other tasks. That’s why I absolutely love making these Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers. They’re colorful, packed with flavor, and oh-so-simple to prepare. Whether it’s a quick weeknight family meal or an enticing dish to impress friends at a gathering, this recipe fits the bill! Plus, they’re a wonderful way to sneak in veggies without anyone noticing. Trust me, these delightful stuffed peppers will bring a smile to your dinner table.

Why You’ll Love This Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

These Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers strike the perfect balance between ease and flavor. In just over an hour, you can create a mouthwatering dish that will have your family begging for more. The creamy ricotta and fresh herbs meld together beautifully, creating a taste explosion. Best of all, they’re vegetarian-friendly, making them a lovely option for everyone at your table. You’ll adore how satisfying and delightful they are!

Ingredients for Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

To make these delicious Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• Bell Peppers: Four vibrant bell peppers—any color will do! They serve as the perfect edible vessel for our herby filling.
• Olive Oil: A tablespoon adds richness and helps the peppers soften while baking.
• Fresh Spinach: Four cups of fresh spinach elevate the dish with a boost of nutrients. Feel free to swap with kale if that’s what you have on hand.
• Ricotta Cheese: A 15-ounce tub of creamy ricotta is the star here! Its luscious texture makes the filling irresistible.
• Shredded Mozzarella: One cup of mozzarella brings extra creaminess and a delightful cheesy pull.
• Grated Parmesan: About half a cup adds a salty note and enhances the overall flavor profile.
• Green Onions: These sliced beauties give a nice crunch and a mild onion flavor, which balances the richness.
• Fresh Basil: A half-cup of chopped basil carries that fresh, aromatic flavor that lifts the dish.
• Flat-leaf Parsley: A handful of chopped parsley can brighten up the filling—a perfect touch!
• Dried Herbs: Teaspoons of rosemary, thyme, and fennel seeds add depth; don’t skimp on these for the best flavor!
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all those delicious flavors.
• Eggs: Two large eggs help bind everything together, giving the filling a perfect texture.
• Breadcrumbs: A half-cup of breadcrumbs adds a crunchy topping that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.

For the exact measurements of these ingredients, check the end of the article where you’ll find everything laid out for printing!

How to Make Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

Step 1: Prepare the Peppers

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (204°C). Then, take your bell peppers and slice them in half lengthwise, making sure to remove all the seeds and ribs. This step is crucial; it allows the flavors to seep in beautifully. Place the peppers cut-side up on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush them lightly with olive oil to help with the baking. Pop them in the oven for about 20 minutes until they start to soften. After that, remove them from the oven and drain any excess water. Reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (176°C); we’re almost there!

Step 2: Cook the Spinach

While the peppers are baking, it’s time to wilt the spinach. Just microwave the fresh spinach for 15 to 30 seconds until it’s soft. When it’s ready, grab a cutting board and roughly chop it. Combine the chopped spinach with your filling ingredients in a large bowl. Cooking the spinach this way keeps its vibrant green color and nutrients, making your stuffed peppers incredibly healthy as well as delicious!

Step 3: Mix the Filling

In that same large bowl, it’s time to add the magic! Toss in the ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated parmesan, sliced green onions, chopped basil, parsley, and all those delightful dried herbs like rosemary and thyme. Crack in the two eggs to hold everything together, then season with salt and pepper. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to mix it all up until you have a cohesive, luscious filling. If you prefer more flavor, this is a great time to sneak in additional herbs or spices!

Step 4: Stuff the Peppers

Now, let’s move to the fun part—stuffing those peppers! Using a spoon, fill each pepper half generously with the herby ricotta mixture. Don’t hold back; really pack that filling in! Leave a little space at the top for the breadcrumbs, which will create a delightful crispy topping. The colors of the filling will make each pepper look so inviting—you might just make a little extra to snack on!

Step 5: Bake the Peppers

Sprinkle that mixture of breadcrumbs and a drizzle of olive oil over the stuffed peppers. This will create a golden-brown crust that’s simply irresistible. Return the peppers to the oven and bake for 30 minutes. If they’re not as golden as you’d like, turn on the broiler for the last minute or two. Just keep an eye on them, as they can go from beautiful to burnt in a flash! Once they’re perfect, take them out and let them cool slightly before serving.

Tips for Success

• When selecting peppers, choose ones with smooth skins and vibrant colors for the best flavor.
• Experiment with herbs! Fresh dill or cilantro can add a unique twist to the filling.
• For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes into the ricotta mixture.
• Don’t skip draining the peppers—this prevents them from becoming soggy!
• Leftover filling makes a great dip with crackers or veggies.

Equipment Needed

• Baking sheet: Use a rimmed cookie sheet for easy cleanup.
• Parchment paper: Substitute with aluminum foil if needed.
• Microwave-safe bowl: A regular mixing bowl works fine too.
• Spoon: A regular tablespoon can work for stuffing the peppers.
• Knife and cutting board: Essential for prepping the peppers and veggies.

Variations on Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

• Meat Lover’s Delight: For those who crave meat, add cooked ground turkey or Italian sausage to the filling for a heartier dish.
• Quinoa Twist: Incorporate cooked quinoa into the filling for an extra boost of protein and texture.
• Vegan Option: Substitute ricotta with a blended tofu and nutritional yeast mix, use dairy-free cheese, and replace eggs with flaxseed meal to bind everything together.
• Mexican Flair: Add black beans, corn, and taco seasoning for a zesty twist, topped with avocado and cilantro.
• Cheesy Goodness: Mix in crumbled feta or goat cheese for a tangy flavor contrast to the ricotta.

Serving Suggestions for Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

• Pair with a crisp green salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
• Serve alongside garlic bread for a cozy, comforting meal.
• A glass of chilled white wine complements the flavors beautifully.
• For a colorful presentation, sprinkle extra fresh herbs on top before serving.

FAQs about Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

Can I make Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the peppers and the filling in advance. Just stuff the peppers, cover them, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, simply adjust the cooking time as they might need a bit longer from the fridge.

What else can I use to stuff the peppers?

The filling is quite versatile! Feel free to add grains like cooked rice or quinoa, beans for extra protein, or even some sautéed mushrooms for an earthy element. The options are endless!

Can I freeze these stuffed peppers?

Yes! These Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers freeze beautifully. Just make sure to wrap them tightly before freezing. To reheat, bake from frozen, adding some extra time to ensure they heat through.

What type of bell peppers work best?

Any color of bell peppers works well! Red, yellow, or green add visual appeal and flavor. Personally, I love using red or yellow ones for their sweetness!

How can I make these stuffed peppers spicy?

If you want to add some heat, just toss in red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños into your filling. You can also serve them with a spicy sauce on the side for dipping.

Final Thoughts on Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

Making Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers brings me such joy, and I know you’ll feel the same! This dish is not just about flavor; it’s about creating moments with your family around the dinner table. The warm, cheesy goodness fills your home with incredible aromas that beckon everyone in. Plus, with each bite, you savor the fresh herbs and creamy filling, making it a memorable experience for all. These peppers are perfect for every occasion—celebratory dinners or cozy weeknights. So grab your apron and start the culinary adventure; your loved ones will thank you!

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