Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

If you’re looking for a dish that brings warmth and comfort to your table, let me introduce you to my favorite Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers. These vibrant peppers are filled with a creamy ricotta mixture that’s infused with fresh herbs, making every bite a delightful experience. They’re perfect for busy weeknights when you want something easy yet impressive or for family gatherings where everyone can enjoy a taste of Tuscany.

What makes these stuffed peppers so special is their versatility and delicious flavor. You can whip them up in under an hour, and they’re packed with wholesome ingredients. Plus, they offer a beautiful presentation that will make your dinner feel extra special!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together quickly, making it ideal for those hectic evenings.
• Family-Friendly: With its creamy filling and colorful presentation, even picky eaters will love these peppers!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the filling ahead of time and stuff the peppers just before baking for an effortless meal.
• Flavorful & Wholesome: Fresh herbs and cheeses create a rich flavor profile that feels indulgent but is still healthy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is half the fun! These simple and wholesome items come together beautifully in this dish. Here’s what you need to make your Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers:

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 cheese (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

For the Topping

• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• 1 Tbsp oil

Variations

One of the best things about Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers is how flexible they are! Don’t hesitate to mix things up based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some tasty ideas:

• Swap the Greens: Use kale or Swiss chard instead of spinach for a different flavor profile.
• Change Up the Cheese: Try goat cheese or feta for a tangy twist!
• Add Some Heat: Incorporate red pepper flakes into the filling if you like a little spice.
• Mix in Quinoa or Rice: Add cooked quinoa or rice to the filling for extra texture and heartiness.

How to Make Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

Step 1: Prep the Peppers

Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). Cut each bell pepper in half lengthwise, removing seeds and ribs. Set them cut side up on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush each half with olive oil for extra flavor. Bake them for about 20 minutes until they start to soften. This step helps ensure that your peppers are tender and flavorful.

Step 2: Mix the Filling

While your peppers are baking, microwave the spinach for about 15 to 30 seconds until wilted. Roughly chop it up, then combine it with all remaining filling ingredients in a large bowl. Mixing everything together now allows all those wonderful flavors to blend beautifully.

Step 3: Stuff the Peppers

Once your peppers have baked and slightly cooled, fill each half evenly with the ricotta mixture. Make sure to pack it in nicely; you want every bite to be delicious!

Step 4: Add Topping

In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs with 1 tablespoon of oil. Sprinkle this golden topping evenly over each stuffed pepper. This will create a lovely crunch on top while keeping everything inside nice and creamy.

Step 5: Bake Again

Return those beautiful stuffed peppers to the oven and bake at 350°F (176°C) for another 30 minutes. If they aren’t golden brown after that time, switch on the broiler and watch closely until they reach perfection—it won’t take more than a minute or two!

With these steps complete, you’ll have gorgeous Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers ready to impress! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

These stuffed peppers are not only delicious but also versatile, making them a perfect canvas for your culinary creativity.

• Choose colorful peppers: Vibrant bell peppers not only look stunning on the plate but also enhance the flavor profile of the dish. Each color has its unique sweetness and taste, so mix and match to make your presentation pop!
• Don’t skip the draining step: After baking the peppers initially, draining any excess water is crucial. This prevents sogginess in your dish and keeps the filling creamy and delicious.
• Experiment with herbs: While this recipe calls for basil and parsley, feel free to switch things up! Fresh oregano or thyme can add an extra layer of flavor that takes these stuffed peppers to another level.
• Add protein: For those looking to boost the protein content, consider mixing in some cooked quinoa or lentils into the ricotta mixture. This makes it heartier and adds a delightful texture.
• Make it ahead of time: These stuffed peppers can be prepared a day in advance. Assemble them and store in the fridge; just pop them in the oven when you’re ready to serve. This is perfect for busy weeknights!

How to Serve Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

Serving these Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers is all about presentation and pairing them with complementary flavors that will enhance your meal experience.

Garnishes

• Fresh basil leaves: A few sprigs of fresh basil on top add a bright touch and signal freshness.
• A drizzle of olive oil: Just before serving, a light drizzle of high-quality olive oil enhances flavor and gives a beautiful sheen to the dish.
• Cracked black pepper: A sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper not only elevates the flavors but also adds a bit of rustic charm.

Side Dishes

• Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad with arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a simple lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the ricotta filling.
• Garlic Bread: Warm garlic bread is perfect for scooping up any leftover filling from the plate, making it a comforting side that everyone loves.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or asparagus provide a colorful contrast while adding more nutrients to your meal.
• Quinoa Pilaf: Fluffy quinoa pilaf seasoned with herbs and spices serves as a nutritious base that complements the flavors of the stuffed peppers beautifully.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re sure to create a delightful dining experience around your Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers. Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare them in advance, making weeknight dinners a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the stuffed peppers to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the cooked peppers cool completely.
• Wrap each pepper individually in plastic wrap or foil.
• Place wrapped peppers in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen peppers in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (176°C).
• Place the peppers on a baking sheet and cover with foil to prevent drying out.
• Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers that you might find helpful!

Can I make Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers vegetarian?

Absolutely! This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly, packed with ricotta cheese and fresh vegetables.

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

When stored properly, these stuffed peppers will last about 3 days in the refrigerator.

Can I customize the filling for Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers?

Definitely! Feel free to add other vegetables, nuts, or seeds that you love.

What can I serve with Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers?

These delicious stuffed peppers pair wonderfully with a fresh salad or crusty bread.

Are Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers spicy?

No, this recipe is not spicy. However, you can add red pepper flakes if you’d like a kick!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy creating these delightful Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers as much as I do! They bring a taste of Italy right into your kitchen and are sure to impress your family and friends. Remember, cooking is all about experimenting and having fun—don’t hesitate to make this recipe your own! Happy cooking!