**Savory Stuffed Mini Peppers with Cream Cheese and Herbs**
These delightful stuffed mini peppers make a perfect appetizer for any occasion! They are colorful, flavorful, and incredibly easy to prepare. The creamy filling infused with fresh herbs complements the sweet crunch of the peppers, making them an irresistible bite-sized treat.
**Ingredients:**
– 12 mini sweet peppers (any color)
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup sour cream
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh chives, finely chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil (for drizzling)
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat the Oven:**
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. **Prepare the Peppers:**
Wash the mini sweet peppers and slice them in half lengthwise. Remove the seeds and membranes carefully, creating a hollow space for the filling.
3. **Make the Filling:**
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, minced garlic, chives, parsley, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated and the mixture is smooth.
4. **Stuff the Peppers:**
Using a spoon or a piping bag, generously fill each mini pepper half with the cream cheese mixture. Make sure to pack the filling in nicely.
5. **Arrange on a Baking Sheet:**
Place the stuffed peppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle a little olive oil over the top of the peppers for added flavor and to help them brown nicely.
6. **Bake:**
Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the tops are slightly golden.
7. **Serve:**
Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Arrange on a serving platter and enjoy warm or at room temperature.
**Tips:**
– For a spicy kick, add diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the filling.
– You can prepare the stuffed peppers a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Just pop them in the oven before serving!
These Savory Stuffed Mini Peppers are sure to be a hit at your next gathering, offering a burst of flavor in every bite! Enjoy!