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.
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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!
Free Keto Meal Plan : KETO DIET PLAN FOR BEGINNERS STEP BY STEP GUIDE
