Delicious Cream Cheese Stuffed Bell Pepper

Delicious Cream Cheese Stuffed Bell Pepper

Ingredients:
4 large bell peppers (any color)
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or cheese of your choice)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tbsp sour cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/2 cup cooked ground meat (optional—ground turkey, chicken, or beef for added protein)
Fresh herbs (like parsley or chives), for garnish

.

Instructions:
1. Prepare the Bell Peppers:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Slice the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Set aside.
If you prefer softer peppers, you can lightly blanch them in boiling water for 3-4 minutes before stuffing. Otherwise, you can leave them raw for a bit more crunch.

2. Make the Cream Cheese Filling:
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, sour cream (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Use a hand mixer or a spoon to mix until smooth and creamy. If you’re adding ground meat, stir it into the cream cheese mixture.

3. Stuff the Peppers:
Spoon the cream cheese filling into each bell pepper, pressing gently to pack the filling in and make sure it’s evenly distributed.
Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish, standing upright.
4. Bake the Stuffed Peppers:
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the peppers are tender.
For extra golden, bubbly cheese, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes.

5. Garnish and Serve:
Once done, remove the peppers from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.
Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives before serving.
Tips:
Add-ins: You can add cooked ground meat like chicken, turkey, or beef to the cream cheese mixture for a more hearty meal. You can also include sautéed spinach or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrients.
Cheese variation: Feel free to use other cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for a different flavor profile.
Meal prep: These stuffed peppers are great for meal prep. They can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
These Cream Cheese Stuffed Bell Peppers are rich, creamy, and satisfying while being low-carb and keto-friendly. Whether as a main dish or a side, they’ll quickly become a favorite!