Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

These herby ricotta stuffed peppers are a delightful combination of creamy ricotta, fresh herbs, and sharp parmesan, making them a perfect side dish for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or looking for a quick weeknight meal, these stuffed peppers offer a burst of flavor and vibrant colors. Not only are they easy to prepare, but they also showcase the freshness of herbs and vegetables, making them a standout dish on your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor-packed: Each bite bursts with the rich flavors of ricotta and herbs.
• Quick to prepare: Ready in under an hour, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights.
• Versatile dish: Perfect as a side or main course, suitable for various occasions.
• Healthy ingredients: Loaded with fresh spinach and herbs, making it nutritious and filling.
• Customizable: Adjust the herbs or cheese types to suit your taste preferences.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you need to whip up these herby ricotta stuffed peppers.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowl
• Microwave-safe dish
• Sharp knife
• Spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for cooking the peppers without mess.
• Mixing bowl: Allows for easy combining of ingredients without spills.
• Sharp knife: Ensures clean cuts when preparing bell peppers and herbs.

Ingredients

These herby ricotta stuffed peppers are filled with creamy ricotta, fresh herbs, and sharp parmesan—an easy, flavor-packed side dish ready in under an hour.

For the Peppers

• 4 bell peppers (any color)
• 1 Tbsp olive oil (15 mL)
• 4 cups fresh spinach

For the Filling

• 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)

Seasonings

• 1 tsp each dried rosemary, dried thyme, fennel seed, and salt (roughly smash the fennel seeds to release their flavor)
• ½ tsp pepper

For Binding

• 2 large eggs

For Topping

• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• 1 Tbsp oil

How to Make Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). Cut 4 bell peppers in half lengthwise. Remove seeds and ribs. Place the peppers cut side up on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush all over with 1 Tbsp olive oil. Bake for about 20 minutes until they begin to soften. Once done, drain any excess water from each pepper and reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (176°C).

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

Microwave 4 cups of fresh spinach for 15 to 30 seconds until wilted down. Roughly chop the spinach. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped spinach with all remaining filling ingredients: ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, parmesan cheese, green onions, basil, parsley, dried rosemary, thyme, smashed fennel seeds, salt, pepper, and eggs.

Step 3: Stuff the Peppers

Fill each pepper evenly with the ricotta mixture you prepared in Step 2. Make sure not to overfill them; leave some space at the top.

Step 4: Add Topping

In a small bowl, combine ½ cup breadcrumbs with 1 Tbsp oil. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over each stuffed pepper for added crunch.

Step 5: Bake

Return the stuffed peppers to the oven and bake for an additional 30 minutes. If they aren’t golden brown at this point, turn on the broiler. Keep a close eye on them as they brown; it won’t take more than a minute or two!

Enjoy your delicious herby ricotta stuffed peppers!

How to Serve Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

These herby ricotta stuffed peppers are versatile and can be served in various ways. Whether as a main dish or alongside a few complementary sides, they are sure to impress your guests and family alike.

As a Main Dish

• Serve the stuffed peppers hot from the oven for a hearty meal.
• Pair with a fresh salad to balance the richness of the cheese.

With Homemade Tomato Sauce

• Drizzle homemade or store-bought tomato sauce over the peppers for added flavor.
• The acidity of the sauce complements the creamy filling perfectly.

On a Bed of Greens

• Place the stuffed peppers on a bed of mixed greens or spinach.
• This adds freshness and makes for an appealing presentation.

Accompanied by Crusty Bread

• Serve alongside warm crusty bread to soak up any extra filling or sauce.
• This adds a satisfying crunch and texture to your meal.

How to Perfect Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

To ensure your herby ricotta stuffed peppers turn out perfectly every time, consider these essential tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and spinach will enhance the flavor significantly compared to dried alternatives.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste your filling mixture before stuffing. Adjust salt and spices according to your preference.
• Don’t Overstuff: Fill each pepper generously but avoid overstuffing as it may cause them to burst while baking.
• Choose Sweet Peppers: Opt for sweeter varieties like red or yellow bell peppers for a more flavorful dish.
• Let Them Rest: Allow your stuffed peppers to sit for a few minutes after baking. This helps the flavors meld together.

Best Side Dishes for Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

Herby ricotta stuffed peppers pair wonderfully with numerous side dishes that complement their flavors. Here’s a list of great options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread: A classic side that adds crunch and flavor, perfect for dipping in sauces.
2. Mixed Green Salad: Light and refreshing with a vinaigrette dressing; it balances the richness of the stuffed peppers.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted with olive oil bring out their natural sweetness and add color to your plate.
4. Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed option that’s filling yet light, mixed with lemon and herbs for freshness.
5. Grilled Asparagus: Simple yet elegant, grilled asparagus enhances your meal with its earthy flavor.
6. Couscous with Herbs: Fluffy couscous tossed with fresh herbs makes for an aromatic side that pairs beautifully with cheese-filled peppers.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers, it’s easy to overlook a few key details that can impact the final dish. Here are some common mistakes to avoid.

• Using raw peppers: Starting with raw peppers can lead to them being too crunchy. Always pre-bake the peppers before stuffing to ensure they soften nicely.
• Overmixing the filling: Mixing the ricotta too much can make it watery. Combine the ingredients gently for the right texture and flavor.
• Skipping seasoning: Failing to properly season your filling can lead to bland peppers. Don’t forget to add herbs and spices for a burst of flavor.
• Not draining excess liquid: If you don’t drain the water from baked peppers, your dish might end up soggy. Make sure to remove any excess moisture before filling.
• Ignoring baking time: Overbaking or underbaking can affect texture. Keep an eye on your peppers; they should be golden and fully cooked but not dried out.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover stuffed peppers in an airtight container.
• They will keep for about 3-5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

• Place cooled stuffed peppers in a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (176°C). Bake covered with foil for 20-25 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, checking halfway through, until warm.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water. Cover and heat for about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best type of pepper for Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers?

Any color bell pepper works well, but red, yellow, or orange offer a sweeter taste than green.

Can I customize the filling for Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms, or substitute different cheeses based on your preference.

How do I make this recipe dairy-free?

You can use plant-based ricotta alternatives and nutritional yeast instead of parmesan cheese for a dairy-free version of Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers.

Can I prepare these stuffed peppers ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare and stuff the peppers a day in advance. Just refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake.

How do I know when my stuffed peppers are done?

The stuffed peppers are done when they are tender and the tops are golden brown. A fork should easily pierce through the pepper skin.

Final Thoughts

These Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers make an easy yet delicious dish that’s perfect as a side or main course. Their versatility allows you to customize them with various fillings and toppings. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to impress your family and friends!