Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

If you’re looking for a dish that’s both comforting and elegant, then you’ve come to the right place! These Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers are not just another recipe; they’re a little piece of Tuscany right in your kitchen. With fresh herbs, creamy ricotta, and a hint of sharp parmesan, this dish will make your taste buds sing. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, these peppers are sure to impress everyone at the table.

What I love most about this recipe is how simple it is to prepare. In under an hour, you can serve a colorful and flavorful dish that feels special without being overly complicated. Trust me, once you try them, these Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers will become a staple in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With minimal hands-on time, this recipe is simple enough for a weeknight dinner.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the cheesy filling and vibrant colors.
• Flavor Packed: Fresh herbs combined with creamy ricotta create a delightful taste experience.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare them in advance and pop them in the oven when you’re ready to eat.
• Versatile Dish: Great as a main or side dish—perfect for any occasion!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some wholesome ingredients for these delicious Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers. You’ll find that everything you need is simple and easy to work with, making this recipe approachable even if you’re short on time.

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 (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
• ½ cup breadcrumbs

Variations

One of the best things about Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers is how flexible they can be! Feel free to get creative with what you have on hand or your favorite flavors.

• Add Protein: Mix in cooked quinoa or lentils for an extra boost of nutrition.
• Change the Cheese: Use feta or goat cheese instead of ricotta for a tangy twist.
• Spice It Up: Add some red pepper flakes for a little kick!
• Load Up on Veggies: Incorporate other veggies like mushrooms or zucchini into the filling for added texture.

How to Make Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

Step 1: Prep

Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). Start by cutting each bell pepper in half lengthwise and removing the seeds and ribs. Lay them cut side up on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Give them a gentle brush all over with olive oil. This step is crucial because it helps the peppers soften as they bake. Bake for about 20 minutes until they start to soften. Once done, drain any water that collects in each pepper and reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (176°C).

Step 2: Mix

While those peppers are baking away, let’s whip up our filling! Microwave your spinach for about 15 to 30 seconds until it wilts down slightly. After chopping it roughly, toss it into a large bowl along with all remaining filling ingredients: ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, parmesan, green onions, basil, parsley, dried herbs, eggs, salt, pepper—you name it! Mixing these together creates a creamy and flavorful filling that’s just irresistible.

Step 3: Stuff

Now comes the fun part—filling those peppers! Spoon the ricotta mixture evenly into each pepper half until they’re generously filled. This rich filling means every bite will be bursting with flavor.

Step 4: Topping

In a small bowl, combine your breadcrumbs with that extra tablespoon of oil. This combination adds a lovely crunch on top of our stuffed peppers. Sprinkle this breadcrumb mixture evenly over each filled pepper.

Step 5: Bake

Return those beautiful stuffed peppers to the oven and bake them for about 30 minutes. If they aren’t golden brown at that point, go ahead and turn on the broiler for just a minute or two—keeping an eye on them so they don’t burn! Once they’re beautifully golden and bubbly on top, they’re ready to serve!

Enjoy every delicious bite of these Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers!

Pro Tips for Making Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

Creating the perfect Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers is a breeze with a few handy tips!

• Choose firm peppers: Opt for fresh, firm bell peppers to ensure they hold their shape during baking and provide a satisfying crunch when you bite into them.

• Mix up the herbs: Don’t be afraid to experiment! If you have fresh thyme, oregano, or dill on hand, feel free to mix them into the stuffing for a unique flavor twist.

• Avoid watery filling: Make sure to drain any excess moisture from the spinach after microwaving. This prevents your pepper filling from becoming too soggy and helps maintain a delightful texture.

• Customize the cheese: For an extra flavor kick, try adding some crumbled feta or goat cheese alongside the ricotta. This adds depth and complexity to the dish.

• Make ahead of time: You can prepare the stuffed peppers earlier in the day and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. This can save you time and makes weeknight dinners a breeze!

How to Serve Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

These Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers not only taste fantastic but also look stunning on the plate! Here are some ideas for presenting this delightful dish to make your meal even more special.

Garnishes

• Fresh basil leaves: A few sprigs of fresh basil add color and reinforce those herby flavors.
• Balsamic glaze: Drizzle a little balsamic glaze over the top just before serving for a tangy sweetness that beautifully complements the savory filling.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and lemon vinaigrette adds a refreshing touch that balances the richness of the peppers.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like zucchini, carrots, and bell peppers can enhance your meal’s flavor profile while keeping it healthy.
• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is always a hit! It’s perfect for soaking up any delicious juices from your stuffed peppers.
• Mixed Greens Salad: A simple mixed greens salad with a zesty lemon dressing offers a crunchy contrast that brightens up your plate.

Whichever way you choose to serve these Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers, they’re sure to impress at your table! Enjoy every flavorful bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers are perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare them ahead of time, making weeknight dinners a breeze or providing a healthy snack option.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover stuffed peppers in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat gently in the microwave or oven before 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 container or bag.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (176°C).
• Place peppers on a baking sheet, cover with foil, and bake for about 20 minutes, or until heated through.

FAQs

If you have any questions about making these delicious Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers, you’re in the right place!

Can I make Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and stuff the peppers a day in advance. Just store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.

What other vegetables can I add to my Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers?

Feel free to mix in other veggies like zucchini, mushrooms, or even corn for added flavor and nutrition!

Can I use different cheese instead of ricotta?

Yes! While ricotta is traditional for this recipe, you could substitute with cream cheese or cottage cheese if desired.

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

These stuffed peppers will stay fresh for up to 3 days when stored properly in an airtight container.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers as much as I do! They are not only bursting with flavors but also bring a touch of warmth and comfort to any meal. Whether you serve them as a delightful side dish or make them the star of your dinner table, these peppers are sure to impress. Happy cooking!