Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers Recipe

If you are on the lookout for a dish that feels like a warm, comforting hug on a plate, look no further than these Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers. This recipe brings together vibrant bell peppers filled with a creamy, flavorful ricotta blend bursting with fresh herbs and melted cheeses—a true celebration of wholesome goodness and bright, inviting colors. Whether you’re aiming for a satisfying vegetarian main or a crowd-pleasing side, Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers deliver on taste, texture, and that cozy homemade vibe you crave.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward but essential, each adding its own touch to the dish’s rich flavor, pleasant texture, and gorgeous appearance. From sweet bell peppers to fragrant herbs and creamy cheeses, every component plays a starring role in making Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers shine.

• 4 bell peppers (any color): Choose fresh, firm peppers for the best roasting results and vibrant presentation.
• 1 Tbsp olive oil (15 mL): This adds a lovely richness and helps the peppers soften beautifully in the oven.
• 4 cups fresh spinach: Wilting the spinach brings out its earthy sweetness without overpowering the dish.
• 1 15-oz tub ricotta cheese (425 g): The creamy base that gives the filling its luscious texture and mild tang.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into the ricotta for that perfect gooey, cheesy pull.
• ½ cup grated parmesan (56 g): Adds a sharp, salty bite that balances the creaminess.
• ½ cup sliced green onions (about 4 green onions): Freshness and a subtle onion kick lighten the filling.
• ½ cup chopped fresh basil: Brings an aromatic, slightly sweet herbaceous note.
• 1 handful chopped flat-leaf parsley (Italian parsley): Adds bright, peppery flavor and freshness.
• 1 tsp each dried rosemary, dried thyme, fennel seed, and salt: These herbs and spices build complex layers of savory flavor; gently crush fennel seeds to awaken their aroma.
• ½ tsp pepper: For a subtle heat that enhances overall flavor.
• 2 large eggs: Help bind the filling for perfect stuffing consistency.
• ½ cup breadcrumbs: Provide a crispy, irresistible topping once baked.
• 1 Tbsp oil: Mixed with breadcrumbs to create that golden crust on top.

How to Make Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

Step 1: Prepare the Peppers

Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). Slice each bell pepper in half lengthwise, carefully removing the seeds and ribs—it’s important to have clean cavities so the filling sits perfectly. Arrange the cut peppers on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cut side up, and brush them with olive oil to keep them moist and add flavor. Bake for about 20 minutes until they soften just a little; then drain any water that collects in the cavity, ensuring the peppers stay crisp in texture while tender. Lower the oven temperature to 350°F (176°C) for the next steps.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

While the peppers roast, quickly wilt the fresh spinach in the microwave for 15 to 30 seconds until just soft. Give it a rough chop to make mixing easier. Combine the spinach with ricotta, mozzarella, parmesan, green onions, chopped basil, parsley, the dried herbs, fennel seeds, salt, pepper, and eggs in a large bowl. Stir thoroughly—the mix should be creamy, fragrant, and bursting with herbal goodness, perfectly ready to be scooped into the peppers.

Step 3: Stuff the Peppers

Generously fill each pepper half with the herby ricotta mixture, pressing gently to ensure it’s compact but not packed too tightly. The creamy filling should reach all the way to the edges so every bite is full of that luscious blend of cheese and herbs.

Step 4: Add the Topping

In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with a tablespoon of oil—this step is key for achieving that golden, crunchy top that contrasts beautifully with the soft filling. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over each stuffed pepper to create a delightful crust.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Return the peppers to the oven and bake for 30 minutes, allowing the filling to set and the topping to crisp up beautifully. If the breadcrumb crust isn’t as golden as you want, switch on the broiler and watch closely as it browns perfectly within a minute or two. This simple finishing touch takes your Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers to the next level.

How to Serve Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

Garnishes

A sprinkle of finely chopped fresh basil or parsley can add a fresh pop of color just before serving, along with a light drizzle of good-quality olive oil. For a touch of tang, a few shavings of parmesan on top elevate the presentation and invite eager forks.

Side Dishes

Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers shine on their own but also pair beautifully with simple green salads, roasted potatoes, or even a light couscous. If you want to add a Mediterranean twist, a side of olives and crusty bread completes the meal perfectly, soaking up any extra juices.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving these peppers on a bed of warm tomato sauce to add moisture and a burst of acidity or place them alongside a chilled grain salad with lemon vinaigrette for a fun texture contrast. You can also cut the stuffed peppers into smaller pieces for appetizers or party platters, turning this comforting dish into a delightful finger food experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store leftover Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen overnight, making them even tastier the next day.

Freezing

If you want to keep these peppers longer, they freeze wonderfully. Place the stuffed, unbaked peppers on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, bake them from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Reheating

Reheat refrigerated or thawed leftover stuffed peppers in a preheated oven at 350°F (176°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if possible to keep the breadcrumb topping crisp—a gentle oven reheating preserves the perfect texture balance.

FAQs

Can I use a different cheese instead of ricotta?

Ricotta is ideal for its creamy, mild profile, but you can experiment with cottage cheese or a mix of cream cheese and grated mozzarella for a similar effect. Just keep the texture smooth and moist for the best stuffing consistency.

Are these stuffed peppers suitable for a gluten-free diet?

Yes! Simply swap the regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers to maintain that tasty crunchy topping without gluten.

Can I prepare the filling in advance?

Absolutely! Mixing the filling a day before allows the flavors to develop beautifully. Just keep it covered in the fridge and stuff the peppers right before baking.

How spicy are Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers?

This recipe leans towards mild and herbaceous rather than spicy. If you love a little heat, adding a pinch of chili flakes or a touch of cayenne pepper to the filling is a great way to personalize the dish.

What’s the best way to choose peppers for stuffing?

Pick bell peppers that are firm with smooth, shiny skin and no soft spots. Medium to large sizes work best to hold a generous amount of filling, and any color will complement the herby ricotta beautifully.

Final Thoughts

Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers truly feel like a special dish you’ll want to make again and again. They’re not only a feast for the eyes with their colorful, inviting look, but also a joy for the palate thanks to the loving blend of creamy cheeses, fresh herbs, and sweet roasted peppers. Dive in and enjoy every comforting mouthful—you’ll soon see why this recipe has stolen hearts and dinner plates alike.

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