Jump to Recipe Print RecipeStrolling through the vibrant markets of Tuscany, the scent of herbs and fresh produce fills the air, stirring my passion for Italian cuisine. Inspired by this culinary journey, I present to you my Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers—an ode to authentic flavors that you can whip up in under an hour. These delightful peppers are overflowing with a creamy blend of ricotta, fresh herbs, and a hint of parmesan, making them a truly irresistible vegetarian option. Not only are they quick to prepare, but they also impress effortlessly, serving as a stunning side dish or even a hearty main. Whether you’re seeking a nourishing meal or a vibrant addition to your table, these stuffed peppers promise to warm your heart and satisfy your cravings. What’s more, each mouthful transports you straight to the sun-soaked hills of Italy. Ready to take your taste buds on an adventure? Let’s dive into this simple, flavor-packed recipe! Why Are These Stuffed Peppers Irresistible? Flavorful, Fresh Ingredients: Every bite of these Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers is bursting with the taste of fresh herbs and creamy ricotta, creating a delightful Mediterranean experience right at home. Quick Preparation: Ready in under an hour, this dish suits even the busiest of schedules, allowing you to serve a gourmet meal without the fuss. Versatile Dish: Whether as a stunning side or a satisfying main, these peppers seamlessly fit any meal occasion and can adapt to whatever ingredients you have on hand. Crowd-Pleaser: Impress your guests with a dish that’s not only beautiful but also full of comforting flavors that everyone will love. Nutritionally Balanced: Packed with protein and veggies, this recipe aligns beautifully with healthy eating habits while being vegetarian-friendly. Plus, for those interested in meal planning, storage tips will ensure these delicious peppers are an easy go-to throughout the week! Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers Ingredients For the Peppers • Bell Peppers – These vibrant beauties provide the perfect vessel for our creamy filling and can be any color you prefer. • Olive Oil – Essential for roasting, it adds a rich flavor while keeping our peppers tender. For the Filling • Fresh Spinach – Nutritious and flavorful; swap with frozen spinach if needed, just remember to thoroughly drain it. • Ricotta Cheese – The star of our filling, delivering a creamy texture—cottage cheese works well as a substitute too! • Shredded Mozzarella Cheese – For that delightful meltiness; feel free to use any mild cheese if you wish. • Grated Parmesan – Adds a sharp, savory note; it can be omitted for a lower-sodium option. • Sliced Green Onions – A fresh, mild onion flavor; you can use regular onions but in smaller amounts to avoid overpowering. • Chopped Fresh Basil – Infuses each bite with herby freshness; substitute with a small amount of dried basil if you’re out. • Flat-leaf Parsley – Brings a peppery brightness to the mix. • Dried Herbs (Rosemary, Thyme, Fennel Seed, Salt, Pepper) – These seasonings enhance the flavors; fennel seeds particularly elevate the Italian touch. • Large Eggs – Acts as a binder for the filling, which you can skip for a vegan version. • Breadcrumbs – A delightful topping for texture; opt for gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed to keep this recipe inclusive. Enjoy creating your Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers, a dish that beautifully showcases rustic Italian flavors! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers Step 1: Prep the Peppers Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (204°C). While the oven heats up, wash and halve the bell peppers, removing the seeds and membranes. Place the peppers cut-side up on a parchment-lined baking sheet, then brush the insides with olive oil. Bake for about 20 minutes until they soften slightly and start to smell delicious, then drain any excess moisture. Step 2: Mix the Filling While the peppers are baking, prepare the herby filling. In a microwave-safe bowl, wilt fresh spinach in the microwave for about 15-30 seconds. Once done, chop the spinach and combine it with ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, green onions, basil, parsley, and dried herbs in a large mixing bowl. Add in the eggs, season well with salt and pepper, and mix until everything is evenly incorporated. Step 3: Stuff the Peppers Once the peppers have finished baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. Generously spoon the herby ricotta mixture into each pepper, packing it tightly but gently. Fill each pepper to the top to maximize flavor and presentation, and arrange the stuffed peppers back on the baking sheet. Step 4: Top & Bake Again In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs with a drizzle of olive oil, mixing well to coat. Sprinkle this breadcrumb topping over each stuffed pepper, ensuring an even distribution. Reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (176°C) and bake these lovely Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers for 30 minutes. If the tops aren’t golden brown, broil them for a couple of minutes, but watch closely to prevent burning. Step 5: Serve & Enjoy Once the peppers are bubbly and golden, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. These Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers are best enjoyed warm, bringing vibrant flavors to your table. For optimal taste, serve them the same day, but if you have leftovers, store them in the fridge for up to four days for a quick reheatable meal. Expert Tips for Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers Drain Properly: Always drain any excess moisture from baked peppers before stuffing. This prevents sogginess and ensures a delightful texture in every bite. Season Generously: Don’t skimp on the herbs and spices! A well-seasoned filling will elevate the flavor of your Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers, making them truly irresistible. Consistent Filling: Ensure your filling is mixed well to distribute flavors evenly. An inconsistent filling can lead to bland bites, so mix thoroughly before stuffing. Watch the Broiler: Keep a close eye when broiling your stuffed peppers. This step adds color and crispness, but it can quickly turn from golden to burnt, so don’t walk away! Experiment with Cheese: Feel free to swap in different cheeses to alter flavors. For a tangy kick, try feta or goat cheese for your stuffed peppers. Make Ahead Option: Prep your filling in advance and store separately. Stuff the peppers right before baking for a quick meal that tastes freshly made! How to Store and Freeze Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers Fridge: Store your Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This way, you can enjoy them whenever a craving strikes! Freezer: If you want to keep a batch longer, freeze the unbaked stuffed peppers. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 3 months, ensuring no air can penetrate. Reheating: For the best results, reheat baked peppers in the oven at 350°F (176°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. If frozen, let them thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Tips: Make sure to drain any excess moisture from baked peppers before storing to maintain their texture and flavor! Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers Variations Feel free to personalize your Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers and explore flavors that excite your palate! Spicy Twist: Swap bell peppers for poblano or jalapeño for a flavorful kick that adds heat to your dish. Nutty Addition: Incorporate cooked quinoa or rice into the filling for a heartier texture and wholesome goodness that fills you up. Cheese Swap: Use tangy feta or creamy goat cheese instead of ricotta for a delightful flavor change that elevates the dish. Veggie Boost: Add chopped mushrooms or zucchini to the filling for extra moisture and a nutritious twist that keeps things interesting. Gluten-Free Crunch: Use crushed gluten-free crackers instead of breadcrumbs to maintain the crunchy topping while ensuring it’s friendly for gluten-sensitive diets. Herb Variations: If fresh herbs aren’t available, use a mix of dried Italian herbs for a concentrated flavor that brightens up the filling beautifully. Additional Proteins: For a protein boost, mix in cooked ground turkey or chickpeas, making this a more robust meal that satisfies even the heartiest appetites. Zesty Flavor: Drizzle the finished peppers with balsamic glaze before serving for a sweet tang that complements the rich flavors and elevates the presentation. Whatever variation you choose, you’re bound to create a memorable dish! If you’re looking for more hearty options, consider checking out my storage tips to keep your leftovers fresh and flavorful! What to Serve with Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers Creating a full meal around these vibrant stuffed peppers is a delightful experience, sure to please every palate. Simple Side Salad: A fresh, crisp salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the creamy stuffed peppers. The brightness of the dressing enhances the flavors beautifully. Grilled Vegetables: Charred zucchini and bell peppers add a smoky flavor that pairs well with the rich filling of the peppers. Their slightly sweet notes balance the dish perfectly, making every bite a pleasure. Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is ideal for scooping up any leftover filling while providing a crunchy texture to counter the softness of the peppers. It’s a comforting addition that invites sharing at the table. Quinoa Pilaf: A fluffy quinoa pilaf with herbs and veggies adds a colorful, nutrient-packed component to your meal. Its nutty flavor complements the herby richness of the stuffed peppers. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned to perfection make for a hearty side that beautifully contrasts the creamy stuffing. Their satisfying crunch will keep your guests coming back for more. Sauvignon Blanc: This bright, zesty wine pairs well with the herby nuances of the dish, enhancing the overall experience. A chilled glass brings a refreshing touch, elevating your dinner to a celebratory occasion. Tiramisu: End your meal on a sweet note with this classic Italian dessert. Its creamy layers and espresso flavor provide a delightful contrast to the savory stuffed peppers, leaving everyone with a satisfied smile. Make Ahead Options These Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious home-cooked meal with minimal stress. You can prepare the filling (ricotta, spinach, herbs, and cheeses) up to 24 hours ahead of time; simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The peppers can also be prepped (halved and baked) up to 3 days ahead; just ensure they are fully drained to prevent sogginess. When you’re ready to serve, stuff the peppers with the filling, top with breadcrumbs, and bake as instructed—this way, they’ll be just as delicious as when freshly made, saving you precious time during busy weeknights! Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers Recipe FAQs What kind of bell peppers should I use for stuffing? Absolutely! You can use any color of bell peppers for this recipe—red, yellow, orange, or green. Each offers a slightly different flavor profile, with red peppers being the sweetest and green ones having a bit more bite. Look for firm, unblemished peppers to ensure the best texture for your Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers. How should I store leftover stuffed peppers? Simply store your Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure they are completely cooled before sealing to retain moisture and freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat in the oven for the best results, about 15-20 minutes at 350°F (176°C). Can I freeze these stuffed peppers? Certainly! To freeze your Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers, wrap each unbaked pepper tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. They can be safely stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. For cooking, simply bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time, or thaw overnight in the fridge before baking. What should I do if my filling seems too runny? Very! If your filling is too runny, ensure that any cooked spinach is well-drained of excess moisture before mixing it in. Adding a bit more breadcrumbs can also help absorb liquid without affecting the flavor. Just mix it in gradually until you reach the desired consistency. Are there any dietary considerations for these stuffed peppers? Great question! These Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers are naturally vegetarian and can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs. If anyone in your family has dairy allergies, feel free to substitute the ricotta with a vegan cream cheese alternative and use a mix of vegetables instead of cheese for stuffing. How do I know when the peppers are properly cooked? The peppers should be tender and slightly crisp to the bite with a golden breadcrumb topping. You can poke them with a fork to check their tenderness; if they easily give way without breaking apart, they’re ready to enjoy! Additionally, you should see bubbling around the edges of the stuffing when done. Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers That Will Wow Your Dinner Guests No ratings yet These Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers are a vegetarian delight with creamy ricotta and fresh herbs, perfect for impressing your dinner guests. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 50 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 5 minutes mins Servings: 4 peppersCourse: DinnerCuisine: ItalianCalories: 320 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Peppers4 whole Bell Peppers any color you prefer2 tablespoons Olive Oil for roastingFor the Filling2 cups Fresh Spinach can substitute with frozen, drained1 cup Ricotta Cheese can substitute with cottage cheese1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese any mild cheese works1/2 cup Grated Parmesan can be omitted for lower-sodium option2 whole Sliced Green Onions or regular onions in smaller amounts1/4 cup Chopped Fresh Basil can substitute dried basil1/4 cup Flat-leaf Parsley1 teaspoon Dried Herbs mix of rosemary, thyme, fennel seed, salt, pepper2 large Eggs can skip for a vegan version1/2 cup Breadcrumbs gluten-free if needed Equipment OvenMixing BowlBaking SheetParchment PaperMicrowave Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat the oven to 400°F (204°C). Wash and halve the bell peppers, removing seeds and membranes. Place them cut-side up on a parchment-lined baking sheet, brush with olive oil, and bake for 20 minutes. In a microwave-safe bowl, wilt fresh spinach for 15-30 seconds, then chop it. Combine with ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, green onions, basil, parsley, and dried herbs in a mixing bowl. Add eggs, season well, and mix thoroughly. Remove the peppers from the oven and let cool slightly. Spoon the filling into each pepper, packing it tightly and filling to the top. Combine breadcrumbs with olive oil and sprinkle over each stuffed pepper. Reduce oven temperature to 350°F (176°C) and bake for 30 minutes. Broil for a few minutes if tops are not golden brown. Let the peppers cool slightly before serving. Best enjoyed warm. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days. Nutrition Serving: 1pepperCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 22gProtein: 15gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 450mgPotassium: 370mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 1500IUVitamin C: 80mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg NotesEnsure to drain any excess moisture from baked peppers before stuffing. Mix filling well for even flavor distribution. Watch closely while broiling to prevent burning. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
