Super Bowl Appetizer Stuffed Mini Peppers

Name: Super Bowl Appetizer Stuffed Mini Peppers
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 12 mini sweet peppers; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/4 cup green onions, chopped; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making these Super Bowl Appetizer Stuffed Mini Peppers for game day! They're vibrant, easy to prepare, and packed with flavor. The combination of cream cheese, herbs, and spices brings the perfect creamy balance to the sweet and crunchy peppers. Plus, they make a great finger food that everyone can enjoy while cheering for their favorite team. Perfect for sharing, these mini peppers always disappear fast at my parties!

Created by

Marianne Hughes

Last updated on 2026-01-10T12:58:16.018Z

When I first made these stuffed mini peppers, I was amazed at how simple yet delicious they turned out! The balance of spices and cheese was impressive, allowing the peppers to shine as the star of the dish. I recommend using fresh herbs for a pop of flavor that just can't be replicated with dried ones.

Another great tip is to roast the mini peppers for a few minutes before stuffing them; this enhances their sweetness and adds a lovely char that complements the filling beautifully. I can guarantee these will be a hit!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Colorful presentation that impresses guests
Flavorful and creamy filling that's easy to customize
Healthy bite-sized snack option for game day

      

Preparing the Peppers

Selecting the right mini sweet peppers is crucial for creating a delicious appetizer. Look for peppers that are firm, shiny, and free of blemishes. This ensures you have a crunchy texture that will hold up during baking. Pay attention to the color as well; a mix of red, yellow, and orange peppers not only adds visual appeal but also contributes slightly different sweetness levels to your dish.

When slicing the peppers, use a sharp knife for clean cuts. This helps maintain their structural integrity during baking. Make sure to remove all the seeds, as they can add unwanted bitterness to the filling. If you'd like to give the peppers a smoky flavor, consider briefly roasting them in a dry skillet for 3-5 minutes before stuffing.

Creating the Perfect Filling

The cream cheese acts as the base for the filling, providing a rich, creamy texture that complements the sweetness of the mini peppers. Make sure to soften the cream cheese to room temperature before mixing; this will ensure a smoother, more cohesive filling. You can easily whip it with a hand mixer for 1-2 minutes to achieve a fluffy consistency.

Feel free to customize your filling! Adding diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes will give a bit of heat if your guests enjoy spicy flavors. Alternatively, you can mix in different herbs like dill or parsley for a unique twist. Experimenting with different cheeses, such as goat cheese or feta, can also elevate the dish.

Baking and Serving Suggestions

When baking, keep an eye on the peppers as ovens can vary. You're looking for a tender texture with slightly blistered edges, which usually takes about 10-12 minutes. If you prefer a more golden top, you can broil them for the last minute or two, watching closely to prevent burning. It’s a great way to add an appetizing finish.

For serving, consider garnishing the stuffed peppers with a sprinkle of extra chopped cilantro or a drizzle of balsamic reduction for a sophisticated touch. These mini peppers are versatile; they can be served warm right away or even at room temperature. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge, where they'll keep well for up to three days.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to get started:

Ingredients

12 mini sweet peppers
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup green onions, chopped
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste

With these ingredients ready, you're just a few steps away from a delicious appetizer!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to prepare your stuffed mini peppers:

Prepare the Peppers

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the mini peppers in half lengthwise and remove the seeds. Arrange them on a baking sheet, cut side up.

Make the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, shredded cheddar, green onions, cilantro, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Stuff the Peppers

Spoon the cheese mixture generously into each pepper half, filling them to the top.

Bake

Place the stuffed peppers in the preheated oven and bake for about 10 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is slightly golden.

Let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your delicious Super Bowl appetizer!

Pro Tips

Consider experimenting with different cheeses or adding cooked sausage for an extra flavor kick. You can also serve these with a dip for added flair!

Make-Ahead Tips

These stuffed mini peppers can be made ahead of time, which is perfect for busy game day preparations. After stuffing the peppers, cover them tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before popping them in the oven to help ensure even cooking.

Freezing is also an option! Place the uncooked stuffed peppers in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy them, bake directly from frozen, increasing the cooking time by about 5-7 minutes.

Variations to Try

If you're looking to switch things up, try adding cooked ground meat to the filling mixture. Turkey or sausage can bring a hearty element that pairs wonderfully with the sweet peppers. For a vegetarian twist, consider incorporating black beans and corn for added texture and flavor without overpowering the dish.

Another delightful variation involves fruit additions; diced fresh mango or even a hint of cream cheese mixed with a little chopped pineapple can create a sweet and savory combination that surprises your taste buds. These adjustments not only provide different flavor profiles but also cater to a wider audience of guests with varying preferences.

Troubleshooting

If your filling is too stiff, you can add a tablespoon of milk or sour cream to loosen it up before stuffing the peppers. This ensures that the mixture is easy to scoop and will maintain a smooth consistency throughout the baking process. Additionally, if the filling is too runny, incorporate more cream cheese or shredded cheese to thicken it.

In case the peppers become too soft during baking, try reducing the cooking time by a couple of minutes next time. Remember that mini peppers are already tender, and a shorter bake will still yield that desirable golden, melty cheese without compromising their structure.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these mini peppers ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the peppers and the filling a day in advance. Just stuff them and bake when ready to serve.

→ What else can I stuff into the peppers?

You can use various fillings like ground meat, quinoa, or even a vegetarian bean mix for more versatility.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven before serving.

→ Are these pepper bites gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, as it doesn’t include any gluten-containing ingredients.