Description
These Pimento Cheese-Stuffed Mini Peppers are a vibrant and cheesy appetizer perfect for parties or gatherings. Sweet mini peppers are halved and filled with a creamy mixture of cream cheese, pimentos, garlic powder, and cheddar cheese, then baked until melty and topped with fresh chives for a flavorful bite-sized treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Pimento Cheese Filling
- 1 (8-oz.) pkg. cream cheese, softened
- 1 (4-oz.) jar pimentos, drained
- 1/2 tsp. garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp. kosher salt
- Pinch of cayenne pepper
- 1 3/4 c. shredded cheddar cheese, divided
Peppers and Garnish
- 1 (1-lb.) bag mini sweet peppers (about 24)
- Sliced chives, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare filling: Arrange a rack in the center of the oven and preheat to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, thoroughly mix the softened cream cheese, drained pimentos, garlic powder, kosher salt, cayenne pepper, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until well combined and smooth.
- Prep the peppers: Cut each mini sweet pepper in half lengthwise and carefully scoop out the seeds and ribs from each half to create a cavity for the filling.
- Fill and arrange: Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the pimento cheese mixture into each pepper half, then arrange the stuffed halves cut side up on a baking sheet. Sprinkle the remaining 3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the filled peppers.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the stuffed mini peppers for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the cheese topping is melted and bubbly. Remove from the oven and let cool for 10 minutes to set.
- Garnish and serve: Just before serving, top the baked peppers with sliced chives for a fresh, aromatic finish.
Notes
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
- You can prepare the pimento cheese mixture in advance and refrigerate it until ready to use.
- Mini sweet peppers can vary in size; try to pick similar sized ones for even baking.
- These stuffed peppers can be served warm or at room temperature.
- For a spicier kick, increase the pinch of cayenne pepper or add some finely chopped jalapeño.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
