Stuffed Mini Peppers (Cheese + Herbs)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

When it comes to Christmas appetizers, simplicity and presentation matter just as much as flavor. These Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers check all the boxes — they’re easy, colorful, delicious, and can be made ahead of time.

Here’s why you’ll fall in love with them:

• Vibrant & Festive: Their natural rainbow colors brighten any holiday table.

• Quick & Easy: Just mix, fill, and serve — no oven required (though you can bake them if you wish).

• Healthy & Wholesome: Naturally gluten-free, vegetarian, and full of fresh flavor.

• Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for stress-free entertaining.

• Customizable: Change the herbs, cheeses, or toppings for endless variations.

Whether you serve them cold as a crisp appetizer or warm for a cozy touch, they’ll always deliver big flavor in every bite.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

These Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers require only simple, fresh ingredients that come together in minutes.

Main Ingredients

• Mini sweet peppers: Choose a colorful mix of red, yellow, and orange peppers. They’re sweet, mild, and perfectly sized for stuffing.

• Cream cheese: The creamy base for the filling — full-fat gives the best texture and taste.

• Feta cheese or goat cheese: Adds tanginess and depth of flavor to balance the creaminess.

• Fresh herbs: Parsley, chives, dill, or basil bring freshness and fragrance to the mix.

• Garlic: A small clove adds a hint of savory bite.

• Olive oil: Adds smoothness and richness to the filling.

• Salt & pepper: For seasoning and balance.

Optional Add-Ins

• Shredded mozzarella or parmesan: For extra cheesiness.

• Crushed red pepper flakes: To add a gentle kick of spice.

• Lemon zest: For brightness and a hint of citrus.

• Honey drizzle: Adds a touch of sweetness to complement the savory filling.

• Paprika or smoked paprika: Adds color and subtle smoky flavor.

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Equipment You’ll Need

• Mixing bowl

• Hand mixer or whisk

• Small spoon or piping bag

• Cutting board and knife

• Serving platter

Simple tools, no special gadgets — that’s what makes this recipe such a breeze to prepare.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Mini Peppers

Wash and dry the mini peppers thoroughly. Slice each pepper in half lengthwise, keeping the stems attached for a decorative touch.

Using a small spoon or your fingers, gently remove the seeds and membranes. Set the cleaned pepper halves aside on a tray or large plate.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Filling

In a medium mixing bowl, combine:

• 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese (softened)

• ½ cup crumbled feta or goat cheese

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 minced garlic clove

• 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh herbs (like parsley, chives, or dill)

• Salt and black pepper to taste

Use a spoon or hand mixer to blend until smooth and creamy. If you prefer a fluffier texture, whip the mixture for about 1–2 minutes.

Step 3: Fill the Peppers

Using a small spoon or piping bag, fill each pepper half generously with the cheese mixture. Smooth the tops with the back of a spoon, or swirl the filling for a decorative look.

Arrange the stuffed peppers on a serving platter, alternating colors for a festive presentation.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

For extra flair, sprinkle with chopped herbs, a pinch of paprika, or grated Parmesan. Drizzle lightly with olive oil or honey for shine and flavor.

Serve immediately, or chill for 30 minutes to let the flavors meld before serving.

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Optional Step: Bake for a Warm Appetizer

If you prefer your stuffed mini peppers warm and slightly melty, bake them at 375°F (190°C) for 12–15 minutes until the filling is soft and the peppers are tender.

They’ll develop a rich aroma and creamier texture — perfect for cozy holiday evenings.

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Flavor Variations

These mini peppers are wonderfully versatile. Try one of these flavor twists to make them your own:

Mediterranean Style

Mix feta, olives, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and oregano into the cheese filling. Garnish with a drizzle of olive oil and a few basil leaves.

Italian-Inspired

Add shredded mozzarella and parmesan to the cream cheese, plus chopped basil and a touch of garlic. Sprinkle with Italian seasoning before serving.

Spicy Herb Blend

Mix a dash of crushed red pepper flakes, chives, and cilantro into the filling for a zesty kick.

Lemon-Dill Freshness

Combine dill and lemon zest in the cheese mixture for a bright, refreshing bite.

Nutty Honey Drizzle

Top each stuffed pepper with a few crushed pistachios or walnuts and a thin drizzle of honey for a sweet-salty contrast.

Tips for Perfect Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers

1. Use room-temperature cream cheese — it’s easier to mix and creates a smoother filling.

2. Choose firm, fresh peppers — they should be glossy and crisp for the best texture.

3. Don’t overfill — too much filling can spill over and make plating messy.

4. Pipe neatly — for a polished look, transfer the filling to a piping bag.

5. Chill before serving — cooling helps the flavors develop and keeps the filling firm.

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Make-Ahead Instructions

These Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers are an entertainer’s best friend because they can easily be made in advance.

• Make-Ahead: Prepare the filling up to 2 days ahead and store it in an airtight container in the fridge.

• Assemble Before Serving: Stuff the peppers up to 12 hours before serving and keep them refrigerated until ready to plate.

• For Warm Peppers: Stuff and refrigerate ahead, then bake just before serving.

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Serving Suggestions

These colorful bites fit beautifully into any holiday menu. Here are some fun ways to serve them:

• Appetizer Platter: Arrange the peppers in a circular pattern on a wooden board with crackers, nuts, and grapes.

• Party Tray Addition: Add them to a Christmas charcuterie or antipasto board alongside cheese cubes, olives, and hummus.

• Healthy Snack: Serve chilled as a light snack between meals.

• Side Dish: Pair with roasted vegetables, grilled chicken, or fish for a wholesome meal.

• Buffet Display: Arrange by color for a festive red, yellow, and orange holiday theme.

For an eye-catching presentation, sprinkle the platter with fresh parsley or rosemary sprigs and a few pomegranate seeds for sparkle.

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Storage & Reheating

To Store:
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To Serve Cold:
Simply remove from the fridge and let sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before serving.

To Serve Warm:
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–8 minutes until slightly softened and warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the peppers watery.

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Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Approximate values:

• Calories: 70

• Protein: 3g

• Fat: 6g

• Carbohydrates: 2g

• Fiber: 1g

• Sodium: 120mg

These peppers are light, flavorful, and full of nutrients — a great balance of indulgence and health for holiday snacking.

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Why Mini Peppers Are Perfect for Holiday Appetizers

Mini peppers are one of those ingredients that bring instant cheer to any dish. Their natural sweetness, crunch, and bright colors make them perfect for holiday platters. Unlike spicy peppers, they’re mild and family-friendly, appealing to all ages.

Plus, they’re nutritious — packed with vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber — making them a healthier alternative to fried or carb-heavy appetizers.

When paired with creamy cheese and fragrant herbs, mini peppers become the perfect holiday bite: colorful, flavorful, and guilt-free.

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Perfect Pairings (Non-Alcoholic)

These Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers pair wonderfully with festive, non-alcoholic drinks. Try serving them with:

• Sparkling pomegranate juice with mint leaves

• Chilled lemonade with rosemary sprigs

• Freshly brewed iced herbal tea

• Sparkling water with slices of orange or lime

• Festive cranberry mocktail with a sugared rim

The freshness of these beverages balances the creamy richness of the cheese filling perfectly.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Using cold cream cheese: It won’t mix well or spread smoothly.

2. Overmixing: Can make the filling too loose. Stop once creamy and blended.

3. Using watery herbs: Pat herbs dry before chopping to avoid excess moisture.

4. Not seasoning enough: The filling should taste slightly salty — it balances the sweetness of the peppers.

5. Skipping garnish: Fresh herbs and a drizzle of olive oil make a big difference in flavor and presentation.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use large bell peppers instead?
Yes, just slice them into strips or quarters before filling. They’ll have the same flavor, but will be easier to eat if cut smaller.

Can I use different cheeses?
Absolutely! Ricotta, cottage cheese, or mascarpone can be used in place of cream cheese. Each will slightly change the texture.

Can I make them vegan?
Yes. Use dairy-free cream cheese and a plant-based feta alternative. The texture and flavor will still be amazing.

Do I need to bake them?
No — they’re delicious both cold and warm. If you want a softer, more melty filling, baking is a great option.

Can I make them spicy?
Yes. Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or finely diced jalapeños to the filling.

How far in advance can I make them?
You can prepare and fill them up to 12 hours before serving. Keep refrigerated until ready to serve.

Can I freeze stuffed mini peppers?
Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the cheese and peppers can change when thawed.

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Decorating & Presentation Ideas

Make your Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers even more stunning for your Christmas spread with these presentation ideas:

• Holiday Wreath: Arrange the stuffed peppers in a circle, alternating colors, and garnish with sprigs of rosemary and pomegranate seeds.

• Mini Cups: Serve each pepper in a small festive paper cup for easy grab-and-go snacking.

• Elegant Platter: Use a white or wooden board and drizzle lightly with olive oil before serving.

• Color Coordination: Group the peppers by color for a gradient effect across the platter.

These small touches turn a simple appetizer into a visual centerpiece.

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The Joy of Simple Holiday Cooking

The holidays can be busy, but recipes like these Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers prove that easy doesn’t have to mean ordinary. With just a few quality ingredients, you can create something beautiful, flavorful, and festive — the kind of dish that makes your guests smile before they even take a bite.

They’re light yet indulgent, simple yet elegant — everything a Christmas appetizer should be. Whether you serve them as part of a lavish spread or as a quick make-ahead snack, they bring joy, color, and flavor to every celebration.

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Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a holiday appetizer that’s healthy, stunning, and delicious, these Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers are your answer. Their vibrant colors bring a festive flair to your table, while the creamy herb filling makes every bite irresistible.

They’re simple to prepare, endlessly customizable, and sure to impress your guests — all without spending hours in the kitchen.

So, grab a handful of mini peppers, whip up your favorite cheese blend, and bring a little color and comfort to your Christmas celebrations this year.

Because sometimes, the best holiday recipes are the ones that make people smile at first sight — and even more after the first bite.