Introduction
Hey there, fellow food lovers! Ready to transform humble bell peppers into an absolutely delightful vegetarian masterpiece? This Ricotta Stuffed Peppers recipe is your ticket to a cozy, comforting meal that’s surprisingly easy to make. We’re taking everyday ingredients and turning them into something truly special – perfect for a weeknight dinner or a fun family gathering. Let’s get cooking!
Why This Works
This recipe is a winner because it’s a beautiful balance of flavors and textures. The creamy ricotta filling is perfectly complemented by the sweet and slightly smoky roasted peppers. It’s also incredibly adaptable – feel free to add your own favorite herbs and spices to make it your own! Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some extra veggies, making it a healthy and satisfying meal the whole family will adore.
Key Ingredients
- 🫑 4 large bell peppers (any color you like!)
- 🧀 15 ounces ricotta cheese
- 🥚 1 large egg
- 🌿 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 🧄 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 🧅 1/2 small onion, finely chopped
- 🧀 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 🧂 Salt and pepper to taste
- 🍅 1 cup marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 🧀 ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Wash and halve your bell peppers, removing the seeds and membranes.
2️⃣ In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, parsley, garlic, onion, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined.
3️⃣ Spoon the ricotta mixture into each pepper half, filling them generously.
4️⃣ Arrange the stuffed peppers in a baking dish. Pour the marinara sauce around the peppers.
5️⃣ Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese over the peppers and sauce.
6️⃣ Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Handy Tips
- For extra flavor, sauté the onion and garlic before adding them to the ricotta mixture.
- If your peppers are on the smaller side, you might need less filling.
- Don’t overfill the peppers, or they might burst during baking!
Heat Control
Baking at 375°F (190°C) ensures the peppers cook evenly and the cheese melts beautifully without burning. If your oven runs hot, keep an eye on them and reduce the temperature slightly if needed.
Crunch Factor
While the peppers themselves become tender, the topping of melted mozzarella cheese provides a delightful, gooey contrast. For an extra textural element, consider adding some toasted breadcrumbs to the top before baking.
Pro Kitchen Tricks
- For a quicker meal prep, use pre-chopped onions and garlic.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the ricotta mixture for a little heat.
- To make it a complete meal, serve with a side of crusty bread for dipping in the delicious sauce.
Storage Tips
Leftover stuffed peppers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven.
Gift Packaging Ideas
These make a fantastic gift! Bake them in individual ramekins for easy portioning and presentation. You can also wrap them beautifully in cellophane bags tied with ribbon.
Flavor Variations
🌟 Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the ricotta mixture.
🌟 Herby: Experiment with different herbs like oregano, basil, or thyme.
🌟 Cheesy: Try adding some crumbled feta cheese to the ricotta mixture along with the Parmesan.
🌟 Meaty: Add cooked ground beef or sausage to the ricotta mixture for a heartier dish.
Troubleshooting
- Peppers burning: If the peppers are browning too quickly, reduce the oven temperature or loosely tent the baking dish with foil.
- Filling too dry: Add a tablespoon or two of milk or cream to the ricotta mixture if it seems too dry.
- Peppers not cooked through: Increase the baking time by 5-10 minutes, checking for doneness with a fork.
FAQ
- Can I use frozen peppers? It’s best to use fresh peppers for this recipe, but you could potentially thaw and drain frozen peppers before using them.
- Can I make this ahead of time? You can prepare the filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Assemble and bake the peppers shortly before serving.
- What kind of cheese can I use instead of mozzarella? Provolone, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of cheeses would work well.
Conclusion
We hope you enjoyed this recipe for Ricotta Stuffed Peppers! It’s a simple yet satisfying vegetarian dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Give it a try and let us know how it turns out! Don’t forget to share your delicious creations with us on social media using #AngelRecipes. Happy cooking!