Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

If you’re looking for a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to your table, you’ll absolutely adore these Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers! Bursting with fresh flavors, this recipe is like a hug from Tuscany. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy family gathering, this dish has got you covered. The creamy ricotta combined with vibrant herbs creates a melody of taste that is simply irresistible.

These stuffed peppers not only make a hearty main course but also shine as a side dish at any meal. Plus, they come together in just about an hour, making them perfect for those nights when you want something special without spending all day in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time, these stuffed peppers can be on your table in about an hour!
• Family-Friendly: Everyone will love the rich flavors and cheesy goodness packed into each pepper.
• Make Ahead: Prepare them in advance and pop them in the oven when you’re ready to eat.
• Healthy and Wholesome: Packed with fresh veggies and herbs, they are as nutritious as they are delicious.
• Customizable: Feel free to switch up the ingredients based on what you have on hand!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For these Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers, we’re keeping things simple and wholesome. You might already have many of these ingredients in your kitchen! Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Stuffed Peppers

• 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
• 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
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• 1 Tbsp oil

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! You can easily adjust it to suit your taste or dietary needs. Here are some fun variations to try out:

• Add More Veggies: Toss in some chopped mushrooms or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Swap the Cheese: Use goat cheese or feta instead of ricotta for a tangy twist.
• Include Protein: Mix in some cooked quinoa or beans for added protein.
• Spice It Up: Add some crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat!

How to Make Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

Step 1: Prep the Peppers

Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). Start by cutting the bell peppers in half lengthwise, removing the seeds and ribs. Place the peppers cut side up on a parchment-lined baking sheet and brush them with olive oil. Baking them for about 20 minutes allows them to soften slightly, creating that perfect vessel for our delicious filling.

Step 2: Mix the Filling

While your peppers are baking, it’s time to prepare the filling! Microwave the spinach for just 15 to 30 seconds until wilted. Then roughly chop it up before adding it to a large bowl along with all the remaining filling ingredients. This step is crucial because mixing everything together ensures that every bite is packed with flavor!

Step 3: Stuff the Peppers

Now comes the fun part—stuffing those beautiful peppers! Carefully fill each pepper half evenly with your ricotta mixture. This is where you can get creative; make sure every bit of that cheesy goodness makes its way into those peppers.

Step 4: Add Topping

In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs with 1 tablespoon of oil. Sprinkle this crunchy topping evenly over each stuffed pepper. This will give your dish a lovely golden-brown finish that adds texture and flavor.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Return those gorgeous stuffed peppers to the oven and let them bake at 350°F (176°C) for about 30 minutes. If they aren’t golden brown on top after that time, feel free to turn on the broiler—just keep an eye on them so they don’t burn! It won’t take more than a minute or two.

And there you have it! Your Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers are ready to be enjoyed. Serve them warm, and watch everyone dig in happily!

Pro Tips for Making Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

Creating the perfect Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers is all about attention to detail and a little love in the kitchen. Here are some pro tips to help you achieve stuffed pepper perfection!

• Choose vibrant peppers: Opt for fresh, colorful bell peppers that are firm and free from blemishes. They not only look stunning on your plate but also pack in more flavor.

• Season generously: Don’t shy away from seasoning your ricotta mixture! A good amount of herbs and spices ensures that each bite is bursting with flavor, making the dish more enjoyable.

• Adjust texture as needed: If your ricotta mixture feels too thick, add a splash of water or a bit more spinach to loosen it up. This ensures an even stuffing that binds well and tastes delightful.

• Experiment with cheeses: Feel free to swap out mozzarella or parmesan for other cheeses like feta or goat cheese. This can add new dimensions of flavor and make the dish uniquely yours.

• Make ahead for convenience: Stuff the peppers a few hours in advance and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. This will allow the flavors to meld beautifully and save you time later!

How to Serve Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

Presenting your Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers can really elevate your dining experience. Here are some delightful ideas to make this dish shine!

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Sprinkle extra chopped basil or parsley on top before serving for a burst of color and freshness.
• Balsamic glaze: Drizzle a touch of balsamic glaze over the finished peppers for a sweet-tart contrast that enhances their flavor.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crunchy, buttery garlic bread pairs perfectly with these stuffed peppers, providing a satisfying crunch alongside creamy filling.
• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the peppers, balancing out the meal.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini and asparagus bring additional textures and flavors that harmonize with the herby notes of your stuffed peppers.
• Quinoa Pilaf: Fluffy quinoa pilaf cooked with herbs makes for a hearty side that adds protein and fiber, rounding out your meal beautifully.

By following these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll create not just a meal, but an experience that’s warm, inviting, and full of flavor! Enjoy every bite of your Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare them in advance, making your busy weeknights just a little easier.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover stuffed peppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will keep well for up to 3 days.
• If possible, separate the peppers from the breadcrumbs to maintain their crunch.

Freezing

• To freeze, allow the stuffed peppers to cool completely.
• Wrap each pepper tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat, thaw the frozen peppers overnight in the refrigerator.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (176°C) and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until heated through.
• If you want to crisp the top, you can broil for an additional minute or two.

FAQs

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

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

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other cheeses such as feta or goat cheese. Just make sure they complement the flavors of the herbs and spices you choose.

How do I make my Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers spicier?

If you love a bit of heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes into your ricotta mixture. This will give your peppers a delightful kick!

Can I substitute another vegetable for the bell peppers?

Yes! Zucchini boats or large mushrooms can work beautifully as alternatives. Just adjust cooking times accordingly based on the vegetable you choose.

How long do leftovers of Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers last in the fridge?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat when you’re ready to enjoy them again!

Can I make these Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers ahead of time?

Definitely! Prepare them ahead of time and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. This is a great way to simplify weeknight dinners!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating these Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers—they’re truly a labor of love! The combination of fresh herbs and creamy ricotta is bound to bring some sunshine into your kitchen. Enjoy making this dish as much as you’ll enjoy eating it, and don’t hesitate to share it with loved ones. Happy cooking!