Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

If you’re looking for a dish that brings a taste of Italy right to your kitchen, then these Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers are just what you need! Bursting with flavor and delightful textures, this recipe has become a cherished favorite in my home. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy family gathering, these stuffed peppers are always a hit. They’re not only delicious but also so easy to make, and they look stunning on the table!

Let me tell you, there’s something truly special about the creamy ricotta combined with fresh herbs and hearty bell peppers. It’s like taking a mini-vacation to Tuscany with each bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can have this dish ready in under an hour.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love digging into these colorful stuffed peppers, making dinner time fun!
• Make-Ahead Delight: Prepare them ahead of time and pop them in the oven when you’re ready to eat.
• Packed with Flavor: Fresh herbs and creamy cheese create a satisfying and flavorful experience.
• Versatile Side Dish: Perfect as a main course or as a side at your next dinner party.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is part of the fun! For these Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers, you’ll 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
• 1 tsp each dried rosemary, dried thyme, fennel seed, and salt (roughly smash the fennel seeds to release their flavor)
• ½ tsp pepper
• 2 large eggs

For the Topping

• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• 1 Tbsp oil

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to customize it based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Add Protein: Mix in cooked quinoa or shredded chicken for an extra boost of protein.
• Go Vegan: Swap out the ricotta for tofu blended with nutritional yeast for a vegan-friendly option.
• Spice It Up: Add some red pepper flakes to the filling for a little heat!
• Change the Cheese: Use goat cheese or feta if you’re looking for different flavors.

How to Make Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

Step 1: Prep the Peppers

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (204°C). Cut the bell peppers in half lengthwise and remove any seeds and ribs. Place them cut side up on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush each pepper with olive oil and bake for about 20 minutes until they soften slightly. This step helps to enhance their natural sweetness.

Step 2: Mix the Filling

While your peppers are baking, microwave the spinach for 15 to 30 seconds until it wilts down. Roughly chop it before adding it to a large bowl along with all the remaining filling ingredients. Mixing everything together creates that creamy texture we all love!

Step 3: Stuff the Peppers

Once your peppers have softened, it’s time to fill them! Spoon the ricotta mixture evenly into each pepper half. Don’t be shy—pack that filling in there!

Step 4: Add Topping

In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs with 1 tablespoon of oil. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the stuffed peppers for that lovely golden-brown topping we all crave.

Step 5: Bake Again

Return those beautiful stuffed peppers to the oven and bake at 350°F (176°C) for another 30 minutes. If they aren’t golden brown yet, switch on the broiler for just a minute or two—just keep an eye on them so they don’t burn!

And there you have it—your delicious Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers are ready to enjoy! Serve them hot and watch everyone dig in with delight!

Pro Tips for Making Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

Making Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers is a delightful experience, and with these pro tips, you’ll ensure that your dish turns out perfectly every time!

• Choose Vibrant Bell Peppers: Opt for colorful bell peppers, as they not only look beautiful on the plate but also add a subtle sweetness to the dish, enhancing the overall flavor.

• Don’t Skip the Herbs: Fresh herbs are key to achieving that Tuscan flair. They bring brightness and freshness to the ricotta filling, making each bite burst with flavor.

• Drain Excess Water: After baking the peppers initially, draining any water that collects inside helps prevent sogginess in your final dish. This keeps the peppers tender yet firm enough to hold their shape.

• Experiment with Cheese: Feel free to mix up your cheese selection! Adding a bit of crumbled feta or goat cheese can introduce an interesting tang that complements the creamy ricotta beautifully.

• Make Ahead: These stuffed peppers can be prepared a few hours in advance or even the night before. Just keep them covered in the fridge and pop them in the oven when you’re ready to serve!

How to Serve Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

Serving your Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers can be just as fun as making them! Here are some ideas to make your dish shine at the table.

Garnishes

• Fresh Basil Leaves: A few whole basil leaves on top add a burst of color and reinforce that fresh herb flavor.
• Chili Flakes: For those who enjoy a little heat, sprinkle some chili flakes over the top before serving to give your dish a spicy kick.

Side Dishes

• Simple Arugula Salad: A light arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette adds a peppery contrast to the creamy stuffed peppers, enhancing your meal without overwhelming it.
• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread on the side is perfect for scooping up any leftover ricotta filling and adds a satisfying crunch.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables (like zucchini, carrots, or asparagus) will complement the flavors of the stuffed peppers while adding more nutrients to your meal.
• Quinoa Pilaf: A fluffy quinoa pilaf infused with herbs makes for a wholesome addition, offering extra texture and nuttiness that pairs well with ricotta.

Enjoy crafting this delightful dish and happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers are perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare them in advance, making your weeknight dinners a breeze. Here’s how to store and enjoy your delicious stuffed peppers later.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover stuffed peppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will keep well for up to 3 days.
• To maintain freshness, cover the container tightly after each serving.

Freezing

• Allow the stuffed peppers to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap each pepper individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped peppers in a freezer-safe bag or container; they can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Remember to label with the date for easy tracking!

Reheating

• To reheat from frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (176°C) and place the peppers on a baking sheet.
• Heat for about 25-30 minutes until warmed through. You can also pop them under the broiler for a minute or two to crisp up the topping.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers.

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

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Feta or goat cheese can add a tangy twist, while cheddar provides a sharp flavor. Just keep the ricotta as it is essential for that creamy filling!

How do I make Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, simply substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed nuts. This way, you can enjoy all that deliciousness without any worry.

Can I add meat to my Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers?

Certainly! If you’d like to include meat, cooked ground turkey or chicken works well. Just mix it into your filling before stuffing the peppers.

What should I serve with Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers?

These stuffed peppers pair wonderfully with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or even a light pasta dish. They’re versatile enough to complement various sides!

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes! If using frozen spinach, make sure it’s fully thawed and drained of excess moisture before adding it to your ricotta mixture.

Final Thoughts

I hope you feel inspired to try making these delightful Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers! This recipe not only bursts with flavor but also brings a touch of Italian warmth into your kitchen. Whether you’re prepping for a busy week ahead or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, I know you’ll love every bite. Happy cooking and bon appétit!