Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

If you’re looking for a dish that brings the essence of Tuscany right to your kitchen, then you’ll absolutely love these Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers. They are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this dish is all about fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors that everyone will enjoy. Plus, it’s vegetarian-friendly, making it a hit for all kinds of eaters!

What makes these stuffed peppers truly special is the creamy ricotta cheese mixed with fragrant herbs, paired with the sweetness of bell peppers. Each bite is a delightful explosion of flavor that will leave you craving more. So, let’s dive into this simple yet amazing recipe together!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just under an hour from start to finish, you can whip these up even on your busiest days.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of fresh herbs and cheeses creates a mouthwatering experience in every bite.
• Family-Friendly: These Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers are loved by both kids and adults alike, making them perfect for any family meal.
• Make Ahead: Prep them in advance and bake them just before serving for an effortless dinner solution.
• Versatile Dish: They can be served as a main course or alongside other dishes, adapting to your meal needs effortlessly.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for these Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers is a breeze! You’ll find that they consist of simple, wholesome items that are sure to please everyone at the table. Here’s what 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)
• ½ tsp pepper
• 2 large eggs

For the Topping

• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• 1 Tbsp oil

Variations

The beauty of these Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers lies in their flexibility! You can easily adapt them to suit your taste or what you have on hand. Here are some fun variations:

• Add Protein: Mix in cooked lentils or beans for added protein and texture.
• Change Up the Cheese: Swap out mozzarella for gouda or cheddar for a different flavor profile.
• Spice It Up: Add some crushed red pepper flakes to give it an extra kick.
• Go Green: Incorporate other veggies like zucchini or mushrooms into the filling for added nutrition.

How to Make Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

Step 1: Prep the Peppers

Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). Start by cutting each bell pepper in half lengthwise; remove the seeds and ribs. Place them cut side up on a parchment-lined baking sheet and brush them all over with olive oil. Baking them for about 20 minutes will soften them nicely, which helps create a tender base for your flavorful filling.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

While your peppers are baking, microwave the fresh spinach for 15 to 30 seconds until wilted down. It’s important not to overcook it! Roughly chop it and combine it in a large bowl with all remaining filling ingredients. This step ensures that each component mixes beautifully together, creating that rich flavor we love.

Step 3: Stuff Those Peppers

Once your peppers have softened, remove them from the oven and drain any water that has accumulated inside. Fill each pepper generously with the ricotta mixture. Don’t be shy—pack them full! This way, every bite will be bursting with deliciousness.

Step 4: Add Topping

In a small bowl, mix together breadcrumbs and 1 tablespoon of oil. This topping adds a delightful crunch! Sprinkle this evenly over each stuffed pepper so they get golden brown while baking.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden

Return those beautiful stuffed peppers to the oven and bake at 350°F (176°C) for about 30 minutes. If they aren’t golden brown yet when time’s up, feel free to turn on the broiler for just a minute or two—watching closely until they reach perfection!

And there you have it—delicious Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers ready to impress! Enjoy sharing this dish with friends and family; I assure you they’ll be looking forward to seconds!

Pro Tips for Making Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

Cooking should be enjoyable and stress-free, so here are some handy tips to make your Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers turn out perfectly every time!

• Choose colorful peppers – Using a mix of red, yellow, and green bell peppers not only adds visual appeal but also enhances the flavor complexity of your dish.

• Don’t skip the broiler – Broiling the stuffed peppers at the end gives them that irresistible golden crust. Just remember to keep an eye on them as they can brown quickly!

• Experiment with herbs – Feel free to swap in your favorite fresh or dried herbs. Oregano or dill can add a unique twist and complement the ricotta beautifully.

• Make ahead & freeze – You can prepare the stuffed peppers and freeze them before baking. Just thaw and bake when you’re ready for a quick meal on a busy night!

• Adjust seasoning to taste – Everyone’s palate is different. Taste your filling before stuffing the peppers and adjust the salt and pepper to your liking for that perfect flavor balance.

How to Serve Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

These stuffed peppers are not just delicious; they’re also visually stunning! Presenting them beautifully will make any meal feel special. Here are some ideas:

Garnishes

• Fresh basil leaves – A few whole leaves on top provide a pop of color and aroma that complements the dish.
• Balsamic glaze drizzle – A light drizzle adds sweetness and tang, making each bite even more delightful.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread – Crispy garlic bread pairs perfectly with these stuffed peppers, offering a crunchy contrast and an easy way to soak up any leftover filling.

• Mixed Green Salad – A refreshing salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the ricotta, keeping your meal light yet satisfying.

• Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted veggies add depth to your plate while enhancing the overall flavor profile with their caramelized goodness.

• Quinoa Pilaf – Fluffy quinoa cooked with herbs makes for a nutritious side that complements the flavors of your stuffed peppers beautifully.

These serving suggestions will surely impress your family and friends, turning a simple meal into an unforgettable experience! Enjoy your culinary adventure with these Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers are perfect for meal prep! You can whip them up ahead of time, making weeknight dinners or lunches a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover stuffed peppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will keep well for up to 3 days.
• To prevent sogginess, you may want to separate the stuffing from the peppers if you plan to store them for longer.

Freezing

• Allow the stuffed peppers to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap each pepper tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped peppers in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For best results, thaw frozen stuffed peppers overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (176°C) until heated through, about 25-30 minutes.
• You can also microwave them; just ensure they are covered to keep moisture in, heating on medium power until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers:

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

Absolutely! While ricotta is the star of this recipe, feel free to mix in other cheeses like feta or goat cheese for added flavor.

How do I make Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers vegan?

To make these stuffed peppers vegan, substitute the ricotta with a plant-based alternative and use flax eggs or aquafaba instead of regular eggs.

Can I add other vegetables to Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers?

Yes! Feel free to add sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or even corn for extra texture and flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating these delightful Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers! They not only bring vibrant colors and flavors to your table but also showcase how easy it is to prepare a dish that feels special. Enjoy cooking, and don’t hesitate to share your experiences or variations with me. Happy cooking!