Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

If you’re looking for a delicious and easy dish that will make your taste buds dance, let me introduce you to my favorite Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers. These colorful beauties are not just a feast for the eyes; they’re packed with creamy ricotta, fresh herbs, and a delightful cheesy topping. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a fun family gathering, this recipe is perfect for any occasion. They come together quickly and effortlessly, making them a go-to in my kitchen!

What I love most about these stuffed peppers is how versatile they are. You can serve them as a side dish or as the star of the meal. Plus, they are vegetarian-friendly and full of flavor, which makes them a hit with everyone at the table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With minimal hands-on time, you can whip these up in no time.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will enjoy these tasty peppers.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare them ahead of time and simply bake when you’re ready to eat.
• Flavorful Experience: The combination of ricotta, herbs, and spices creates a mouthwatering dish that transports you straight to Italy.
• Wholesome Ingredients: Packed with nutritious veggies and fresh herbs, this dish is both tasty and healthy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to make these Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers shine! You likely already have many of these on hand.

For the Filling

• 4 bell peppers (any color)
• 1 Tbsp olive oil (15 mL)
• 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 (aka Italian 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 play around with some variations to suit your taste or what you have on hand.

• Add More Veggies: Toss in some diced zucchini or mushrooms for extra texture and flavor.
• Change Up the Cheese: Swap out mozzarella for another cheese like gouda or feta to create new flavors.
• Spice It Up: Add some red pepper flakes to the filling for a bit of heat!
• Use Different Herbs: If you have other fresh herbs like oregano or dill, feel free to substitute them in!

How to Make Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

Step 1: Prep the Bell Peppers

Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). Cut each bell pepper in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and ribs. This step is crucial because it allows the peppers to cook evenly while providing plenty of space for that delicious filling. Place them cut side up on a parchment-lined baking sheet and brush all over with olive oil. Bake for about 20 minutes until they start softening. Don’t forget to drain any water from inside each pepper after baking!

Step 2: Mix the Filling

While your peppers bake, microwave the spinach for about 15–30 seconds until wilted down. This keeps it vibrant while ensuring it mixes well with everything else! Roughly chop it up and combine it in a large bowl with all remaining filling ingredients. Mixing everything together ensures every bite of your Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers is bursting with flavor!

Step 3: Stuff Those Peppers

Now comes the fun part—filling those beautiful peppers! Spoon the ricotta mixture evenly into each one until they are generously filled. Try not to skimp; we want every bite packed with goodness!

Step 4: Prepare the Topping

In a small bowl, mix together breadcrumbs and 1 tablespoon of oil until well combined. Sprinkle this crunchy topping evenly over each stuffed pepper. This will give them that golden brown finish we all love!

Step 5: Bake Again

Return those stuffed beauties back into the oven at a reduced temperature of 350°F (176°C) for about 30 minutes. If they aren’t golden brown yet, turn on the broiler for just a minute or two—just keep an eye on them so they don’t burn! When done, you’ll have perfectly baked Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers that smell divine.

Now you’re ready to serve these delightful stuffed peppers hot from the oven! Enjoy every bite with your loved ones; I promise they’ll be asking for seconds!

Pro Tips for Making Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

Creating the perfect Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers is all about the little details that enhance flavor and texture. Here are some tips to make your dish even more delightful!

• Choose ripe peppers: Selecting fresh, ripe bell peppers not only enhances the flavor of your dish but also adds vibrant color that makes the meal visually appealing.

• Use quality ricotta: Opting for high-quality ricotta will give you a creamier filling, making each bite rich and satisfying. Look for brands with minimal additives for the best taste.

• Don’t skip the herbs: Incorporating fresh herbs like basil and parsley elevates the flavor profile substantially. They add brightness and freshness that complement the creamy ricotta wonderfully.

• Adjust seasoning to taste: Everyone’s palate is different! Taste your filling before stuffing the peppers, and feel free to adjust the seasoning based on your preference. A pinch more salt or a dash of pepper can make a big difference.

• Experiment with toppings: While breadcrumbs add a nice crunch, consider adding grated cheese or even crushed nuts for an extra layer of texture and flavor. This small change can transform your dish into something special!

How to Serve Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

Presentation is key when serving these delicious stuffed peppers! Here are some ideas to make this dish shine on your table.

Garnishes

• Fresh basil leaves: A few whole leaves placed on top not only look stunning but also enhance the basil flavor in the filling.
• Balsamic glaze: Drizzling a bit of balsamic reduction over the top adds a sweet tanginess that complements the richness of the cheese beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Mixed green salad: A light salad with arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the stuffed peppers.
• Garlic bread: Crunchy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover flavors on your plate, making it a comforting side choice.
• Quinoa pilaf: A nutty quinoa pilaf adds protein and a lovely texture to your meal, making it both filling and nutritious.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasoned roasted zucchini, asparagus, or carrots offer an earthy balance to the main dish while keeping everything light and healthy.

With these serving suggestions, your Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers will not only taste amazing but also look gorgeous on any dining table! Enjoy every flavorful bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers are perfect for meal prep! You can easily make them ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week, making dinner planning a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the stuffed peppers to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container in the fridge.
• Leftovers can be stored for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, wrap each stuffed pepper tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store them in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They will keep well for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen peppers overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F (176°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through.
• You can also use the microwave; heat on high for 2-3 minutes, checking to ensure they are warmed evenly.

FAQs

If you have questions about these delicious Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries:

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

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute different cheeses like goat cheese or feta if you prefer. Just keep in mind that it may alter the flavor profile slightly.

How can I make Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers vegan?

To make this recipe vegan, swap out the ricotta for a plant-based alternative and use flax eggs or a similar egg replacer. The taste will still be fantastic!

What herbs work best in Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers?

While basil and parsley are great choices, feel free to experiment with other herbs like oregano or dill for added flavor. Fresh herbs will provide the best taste!

How do I know when my stuffed peppers are done?

The peppers should be tender and slightly browned on top. If you’re unsure, insert a fork into a pepper; it should slide in easily without resistance.

Can I add other vegetables to the filling of my stuffed peppers?

Definitely! Chopped mushrooms, zucchini, or even corn would be wonderful additions to your ricotta mixture. Just make sure they’re pre-cooked or wilted down before mixing.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers as much as I do! They’re not just delicious; they also bring a touch of Italian comfort right into your kitchen. Whether you’re serving them as a main dish or a side, these peppers are sure to impress. Happy cooking, and don’t hesitate to share your thoughts once you’ve tried this delightful recipe!