Jump to Recipe Print RecipeWith a vibrant splash of color and fragrance, my kitchen transformed into a mini Tuscan eatery last week. The star of the show? These Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers, a delightful dish that beautifully balances fresh herbs and creamy ricotta, capturing the spirit of Italian home cooking. The best part? They come together in under an hour! Perfect for any weeknight craving or gathering, this vegetarian delight offers an irresistible comfort that feels just a tad gourmet. Plus, they’re gluten-free adaptable, giving you the flexibility to tailor them to your dietary needs. Ready to discover how easily you can bring a taste of the Italian countryside to your home? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that perfectly blends simplicity with elegance! Why Are These Peppers So Irresistible? Flavor-Packed Filling: Each bite reveals a delightful combination of creamy ricotta and fresh herbs, making every pepper burst with taste. Quick and Easy: With a prep time of under an hour, this recipe is perfect for busy evenings or unexpected guests. Vegetarian Delight: A satisfying meat-free option that doesn’t compromise on flavor, making it a favorite for everyone at the table. Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: These stuffed peppers are not only beautiful but also incredibly fun to serve at gatherings or family dinners. Customizable: Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies or spices—why not check out my Sausage Stuffed Jalapenos for more creative filling ideas? Prepare to impress your family and friends with this dish that’s as delicious as it is colorful! Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers Ingredients For the Peppers • Bell Peppers – Choose vibrant colors like red, yellow, or orange for a visually stunning dish; swap with poblano for a spicy twist. • Olive Oil – Adds moisture and richness; feel free to substitute with any neutral oil. For the Filling • Fresh Spinach – Brings color and nutrients; frozen spinach can work, just ensure it’s thoroughly drained. • Ricotta Cheese – Provides creaminess and binds the filling; cottage cheese works as a lighter option. • Shredded Mozzarella Cheese – Contributes melty goodness; omit for a vegan version or opt for dairy-free alternatives. • Grated Parmesan – Enhances the savory flavor; use nutritional yeast for a vegan twist. • Sliced Green Onions – Offers a fresh bite; shallots or yellow onions are good substitutes. • Chopped Fresh Basil – Imparts aromatic freshness; if unavailable, dried basil can stand in (1 tsp). • Flat-leaf Parsley – Offers brightness; can be swapped for chives or omitted if desired. • Dried Rosemary, Thyme, and Fennel Seeds – Elevate the flavor complexity; Italian seasoning is a great alternative. • Salt & Pepper – Essential for flavor; adjust these to suit your taste preferences. • Large Eggs – Acts as a binding agent; for a vegan option, a flax or chia egg is perfect. • Breadcrumbs – Adds delightful texture; gluten-free breadcrumbs are available for those with dietary needs. Get ready to embrace the deliciousness of these Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers, perfectly simple yet elegantly flavorful! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers Step 1: Prep Peppers Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C) to create a warm, inviting environment. While the oven heats, carefully halve each bell pepper, removing the seeds and membranes. Arrange the pepper halves cut-side up on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush them lightly with olive oil; this adds moisture and flavor. Bake for about 20 minutes until the peppers are softened and slightly tender. Step 2: Prepare Filling While the peppers are roasting, microwave the fresh spinach for 1-2 minutes until wilted. In a large bowl, combine the wilted spinach with creamy ricotta, shredded mozzarella, and grated parmesan, along with sliced green onions, fresh basil, parsley, and dried herbs. Season generously with salt and pepper, then add the eggs to bind the filling. Stir until all the ingredients are well mixed, creating a delightful herby ricotta filling. Step 3: Stuff Peppers Once the peppers have cooled slightly, it’s time to fill them with the herby ricotta mixture. Generously spoon the filling into each pepper half, ensuring they are packed and overflowing for that beautiful presentation. Arrange the stuffed peppers back onto the baking sheet, ensuring they sit snugly together—this keeps them from tipping over during baking. Step 4: Add Topping In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with a drizzle of olive oil to create a crispy topping. Sprinkle this breadcrumb mixture evenly over each stuffed pepper, adding a satisfying crunch and golden color to the dish. This topping elevates the herby ricotta stuffed peppers into a visually appealing, hearty dish. Step 5: Finalize Baking Reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (176°C) and return the stuffed peppers to bake for an additional 30 minutes. Keep an eye on them as they bake, watching for the topping to turn a lovely golden brown. For an extra crispy finish, switch to broil for the last minute or two, watching closely to prevent burning. Your herby ricotta stuffed peppers are now ready to impress! Make Ahead Options These Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers are a meal prep dream come true! You can prepare the filling (ricotta, spinach, cheeses, herbs, and eggs) up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and ensure to mix well before stuffing the peppers. You can also pre-bake the halved peppers for about 20 minutes and then refrigerate them. When you’re ready to serve, just stuff the pre-prepared filling into the chilled peppers, sprinkle with breadcrumbs, and finish baking at 350°F (176°C) for about 30 minutes. This way, you’ll enjoy a delicious, home-cooked meal with minimal effort, keeping the flavors just as vibrant! What to Serve with Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers Transform your vibrant Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers into a complete meal with these delightful pairings that sing of comfort and flavor. Mixed Green Salad: Perfectly refreshing, a light salad with a zesty vinaigrette complements the creaminess of the peppers, offering a delightful crunch. Toss in some cherry tomatoes and avocado for an extra burst of flavor. Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is an irresistible companion, adding a lovely crunchy texture and soaking up any flavors left on your plate. Your taste buds will absolutely dance with delight! Quinoa Pilaf: A nutty quinoa pilaf brings a satisfying chewiness, contrasting beautifully with the tender peppers. Infuse it with herbs and nuts for an elegant, nutritious addition. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini, carrots, or asparagus add depth and a bit of sweetness, elevating your dish while kindling that warm, homey feeling. Creamy Polenta: Silky, cheesy polenta serves as a luscious base, perfectly balancing the herbaceous stuffed peppers with its comforting creaminess. It’s a dish that feels like a warm hug! White Wine Spritzer: A light, refreshing white wine spritzer enhances the flavors of your meal without overshadowing the dish, making it a perfect sip as you indulge in savoring those stuffed peppers. Elevate your dining experience by combining these delightful sides or drinks, inviting the essence of culinary joy into your table. Expert Tips for Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers Drain Peppers Well: Ensure you drain any excess moisture from roasted peppers before stuffing to avoid a soggy dish that can ruin your meal. Protein Boost: For an extra protein kick, consider mixing in some cooked ground meat, chickpeas, or even lentils with the herby ricotta filling. Spinach Preparation: If using frozen spinach, remember to thaw and thoroughly squeeze out the moisture—this will keep your filling nice and creamy without extra water. Cheese Alternatives: If you want a lighter option, use cottage cheese instead of ricotta. It still offers creaminess while reducing fat content. Breadcrumb Substitutes: For gluten-free fans, swap regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives to ensure everyone can enjoy these satisfying Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers. Storage Tips for Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers Fridge: Store leftover stuffed peppers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (176°C) for best results. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze stuffed peppers before baking. Wrap each pepper tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Reheating: If you freeze the peppers, thaw in the fridge overnight before baking. Bake at 350°F (176°C) until heated through, about 30-35 minutes. Room Temperature: Serve freshly baked herby ricotta stuffed peppers immediately for the best texture and flavor. Avoid leaving them out for more than 2 hours. Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers Variations Feel free to get creative and customize these delicious stuffed peppers to suit your taste buds. Spice It Up: Adding diced jalapeños to the filling provides a delightful kick. You could even experiment with other spicy peppers to ignite your dish! Add Extra Grains: Incorporate cooked quinoa or brown rice for a heartier filling. These whole grains not only enhance texture but also add a nutritious boost. Nutty Flavor: Toasted pine nuts or chopped walnuts can elevate the stuffing. They add a lovely crunch and depth of flavor, transforming the dish into a gourmet experience. Vegan-Friendly: For a plant-based option, swap ricotta with creamy cashew cheese or tofu blended with herbs. This keeps the creamy texture while making it suitable for vegans. Cheeseboard Vibes: Mix in crumbled feta for a tangy twist. Pairing it with the herby richness creates a unique flavor that’s something to remember! Mediterranean Twist: Add diced sun-dried tomatoes and olives for a Mediterranean flavor profile. This burst of flavor makes each bite even more unforgettable. Fresh Herbs: Experiment with different herbs like dill or cilantro. They can change the flavor backbone and add freshness that’s simply vibrant. Try Other Veggies: Consider stuffing other vegetables like zucchini or tomatoes. Each vegetable will impart a different flavor, making dinner feel new and exciting! Don’t forget to check out my Sausage Stuffed Jalapenos for more delightful filling inspiration! Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers Recipe FAQs How do I choose the best bell peppers for this recipe? Absolutely! Look for firm, glossy bell peppers with vibrant colors—red, yellow, or orange are all perfect choices. Avoid any with dark spots or wrinkles, as these can indicate overripeness. If you prefer a kick, consider poblano peppers for a spicy twist! What’s the best way to store leftover Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers? For sure! Store any leftover stuffed peppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For the best texture, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (176°C) until heated through, which usually takes about 15-20 minutes. Can I freeze the stuffed peppers? How should I do it? Yes, you can! To freeze your herby ricotta stuffed peppers, prepare them up to the baking stage. Wrap each stuffed pepper individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll last for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw them in the fridge overnight and bake at 350°F (176°C) for about 30-35 minutes until heated thoroughly. What if my mixture seems too watery when preparing the filling? Very common! If your filling appears too watery, you have a couple of options. First, ensure your spinach is well-drained if using frozen. Second, you can add more breadcrumbs to absorb excess moisture. If it’s still too loose, consider refrigerating the filling for about 30 minutes; this can help it firm up before stuffing. Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind? Of course! This recipe can easily adapt to various dietary needs. For vegan options, substitute the ricotta with vegan cheese, use a flax or chia egg instead of a large egg, and choose gluten-free breadcrumbs. Always double-check all ingredient labels to avoid allergens, especially if serving guests! How can I enhance the flavor of my filling? Absolutely! Beyond what’s listed in the recipe, you can add minced garlic or finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the filling for extra depth. Fresh herbs like oregano or parsley can also be mixed in for increased flavor complexity. Don’t hesitate to get creative with spices or even adding some diced olives for a Mediterranean twist! Heavenly Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers in Under an Hour Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers are a vibrant, vegetarian delight that comes together in under an hour, perfect for any gathering or weeknight craving. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 20 minutes minsCook Time 50 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 10 minutes mins Servings: 4 peppersCourse: DinnerCuisine: ItalianCalories: 320 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Peppers3 whole Bell Peppers Choose vibrant colors like red, yellow, or orange; poblano for a spicy twist.2 tablespoons Olive Oil Feel free to substitute with any neutral oil.For the Filling1 cup Fresh Spinach Frozen spinach can work, just ensure it's thoroughly drained.1 cup Ricotta Cheese Cottage cheese works as a lighter option.1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese Omit for a vegan version or use dairy-free alternatives.1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Use nutritional yeast for a vegan twist.3 tablespoons Sliced Green Onions Shallots or yellow onions are good substitutes.1/4 cup Chopped Fresh Basil Dried basil can stand in (1 tsp) if unavailable.1/4 cup Flat-leaf Parsley Can be swapped for chives or omitted if desired.1 teaspoon Dried Rosemary1 teaspoon Dried Thyme1 teaspoon Fennel Seeds Italian seasoning is a great alternative.1 teaspoon Salt Adjust to suit taste preferences.1/2 teaspoon Pepper Adjust to suit taste preferences.2 large Eggs For a vegan option, a flax or chia egg is perfect.1/2 cup Breadcrumbs Gluten-free breadcrumbs are available for those with dietary needs. Equipment ovenBaking sheetMicrowavemixing bowl Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). Halve each bell pepper, removing seeds and membranes. Place cut-side up on a parchment-lined baking sheet, brush lightly with olive oil, and bake for 20 minutes until softened.Microwave fresh spinach for 1-2 minutes until wilted. In a bowl, combine wilted spinach, ricotta, mozzarella, parmesan, green onions, basil, parsley, and dried herbs. Season with salt and pepper, add eggs, and stir well to mix.Fill each pepper half with the herby ricotta mixture, packing it in well. Arrange stuffed peppers back on the baking sheet snugly.Mix breadcrumbs with a drizzle of olive oil and sprinkle evenly over each stuffed pepper for crunch. Elevate presentation with a golden color.Reduce oven temperature to 350°F (176°C) and bake for an additional 30 minutes. Optionally broil for a crispy finish. Your stuffed peppers are now ready to impress! Nutrition Serving: 1pepperCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 16gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 450mgFiber: 4gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 1500IUVitamin C: 80mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg NotesEnsure to drain any excess moisture from roasted peppers before stuffing to avoid sogginess. For added protein, mix in cooked ground meat, chickpeas, or lentils. Use cottage cheese for a lighter filling and opt for gluten-free breadcrumbs as needed. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
