If you’re searching for a snack that’s bursting with color, flavor, and that perfect creamy tang, look no further than this Pimento Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers Recipe. It’s a delightful bite-sized treat that combines the sharpness of cheddar, the smoothness of cream cheese, and the sweet crunch of mini peppers into one irresistible package. Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving a quick, satisfying nibble, these stuffed peppers offer an easy, crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s as vibrant to look at as it is delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple but absolutely essential to creating the perfect balance of tastes and textures in this Pimento Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers Recipe. Each one adds a unique dimension from tangy and creamy to sweet and spicy that makes every bite memorable.
- Sharp cheddar cheese, 8 oz, grated: The star of the filling, providing sharp, nutty flavor and a firm texture that holds well.
- Cream cheese, 4 oz, softened: Adds creamy richness and smoothness, making the filling luscious and decadent.
- Mayonnaise, 1/4 cup: Helps bind the ingredients and lends a subtle tang that enhances the cheese.
- Dijon mustard, 2 tablespoons: Brings a mild kick and depth of flavor that balances the richness.
- Jarred pimentos, 1/4 cup, drained and chopped: Adds sweetness and a pop of vibrant color with a smoky undertone.
- Garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon: Infuses a gentle aromatic savory note without overpowering the cheese.
- Onion powder, 1/4 teaspoon: For a subtle sweetness and complexity to the filling.
- Cayenne pepper, 1/4 teaspoon (optional): Introduces a touch of heat that wakes up your taste buds.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings that bring out the best in every ingredient.
- Mini sweet peppers, 12-15, halved and deseeded (red, yellow, or orange): These crunchy, colorful vessels not only look gorgeous but add a fresh, sweet crunch that perfectly complements the creamy filling.
How to Make Pimento Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
Start by combining all the filling ingredients in a medium mixing bowl. The sharp cheddar cheese, softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, chopped pimentos, and seasonings come together in this bowl to create a creamy, richly flavored mixture. Don’t rush this step—taking a moment to mix everything until smooth and well combined is key to achieving that dreamy, spreadable texture.
Step 2: Prepare the Peppers
Next up, grab your mini sweet peppers and slice them lengthwise. Carefully remove the seeds to make room for your delicious filling. Leaving the stems on not only adds a charming rustic look but also makes these bite-size snacks easier to handle whether you’re casually snacking or serving guests.
Step 3: Stuff the Peppers
Now for one of the best parts—filling your peppers with the cheese mixture. You can use a small spoon or get fancy with a piping bag to neatly and generously fill each pepper half. Packing in the filling well ensures every bite bursts with that irresistible cheesy goodness paired with the crisp sweetness of the pepper.
Step 4: Serve
Arrange your stuffed mini peppers on a beautiful platter and serve immediately for a fresh, lively appetizer. If you prefer, pop them in the fridge for about 30 minutes before serving. This brief chill helps the flavors meld and the cheese filling to firm up just slightly, making them even easier to enjoy. Either way, they’re destined to disappear fast!
How to Serve Pimento Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a little extra garnish can elevate these stuffed mini peppers from tasty to truly irresistible. Sprinkle freshly chopped chives, parsley, or even a pinch of smoked paprika on top to introduce a splash of color and fresh flavor. A light drizzle of olive oil with cracked black pepper can also add a lovely sheen and enhance taste without overpowering.
Side Dishes
This Pimento Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers Recipe pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Serve alongside a crisp green salad to balance the richness, or platter up with crunchy crackers and pickles for a fun appetizer spread. They also complement grilled meats or barbecues as a bright, tangy side.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party, try threading the stuffed peppers onto cocktail picks for a playful finger food presentation. You can also nestle each pepper half on a small bed of mixed greens or serve them in colorful mini muffin tins to keep them upright and charming. Presentation is your playground with this dish, and a bit of creativity goes a long way in impressing your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, fear not—this Pimento Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers Recipe keeps well when stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen with a little rest, making the next day just as delicious, if not more so.
Freezing
While these stuffed peppers taste best fresh, you can freeze the filling separately in a sealed container for up to a month. Avoid freezing the stuffed peppers themselves, as the texture of the sweet peppers can change and become watery upon thawing. When ready to enjoy, thaw the filling in the refrigerator and stuff fresh mini peppers.
Reheating
This recipe is typically served cold or at room temperature, so reheating is not necessary. However, if you prefer a warm version, gently heat the filling alone in a microwave-safe bowl until just warmed through, then stuff fresh peppers. Keep in mind this changes the texture of the peppers themselves.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese for the filling?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is classic, you can experiment with cheeses like Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or even smoked gouda for different flavor profiles. Just be mindful of how each cheese melts and blends with the other ingredients.
Are mini sweet peppers necessary, or can I use regular bell peppers?
Mini sweet peppers are ideal because of their small size and sweetness, making them perfect for bite-sized appetizers. Regular bell peppers can be used but will require cutting into smaller pieces and might change the serving experience.
How spicy is the Pimento Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers Recipe?
The spice level is quite mild and customizable. The recipe includes cayenne pepper for a subtle kick, but you can omit it entirely for a more family-friendly version or add more if you like it with a little heat.
Can this recipe be made vegan or dairy-free?
To make this dish vegan or dairy-free, substitute the cheese and cream cheese with plant-based alternatives and use vegan mayonnaise. Keep in mind the flavor and texture will differ somewhat but can still be delicious with the right ingredients.
What is the best way to transport these for a party?
Transport them in a shallow airtight container lined with paper towels to absorb any moisture. Keep the filling and peppers separate if possible and assemble at the venue for maximum freshness and ease.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the Pimento Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers Recipe that makes it a must-have in your appetizer rotation. It’s vibrant, richly flavorful, and incredibly easy to put together, making it the perfect dish to share with friends and family. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite snack that everyone keeps requesting!
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Pimento Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 12-15 stuffed mini peppers (serves 12)
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American Southern
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Delicious and easy-to-make Pimento Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers are a perfect appetizer or snack. Sweet mini peppers are halved and filled with a creamy, tangy pimento cheese mixture made from sharp cheddar, cream cheese, mayonnaise, and flavorful seasonings. Ready in just 10 minutes, these colorful bites bring a delightful combination of creamy, cheesy, and slightly spicy flavors, ideal for parties, gatherings, or light snacks.
Ingredients
Pimento Cheese Filling
- 8 oz sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup jarred pimentos, drained and chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Mini Peppers
- 12–15 mini sweet peppers (red, yellow, or orange), halved and deseeded
Instructions
- Prepare the Filling: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the grated cheddar cheese, softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, chopped pimentos, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well combined and creamy.
- Prepare the Peppers: Slice the mini peppers in half lengthwise and remove the seeds. You can leave the stems on for easier handling and presentation.
- Stuff the Peppers: Using a spoon or piping bag, fill each mini pepper half with the pimento cheese mixture, packing it in well.
- Serve: Arrange the stuffed mini peppers on a serving platter and serve immediately. Alternatively, refrigerate them for about 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.
Notes
- Use sharp cheddar cheese for the best flavor impact.
- The cayenne pepper is optional and can be omitted or adjusted based on your spice preference.
- Mini peppers can be left whole as a vessel after slicing in half; leaving stems on adds visual appeal.
- Refrigerating the stuffed peppers for 30 minutes improves flavor and firmness for easier eating.
- This recipe is best served chilled or at room temperature.
