I absolutely love making Pimento Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers! It’s one of those recipes that never fails to impress guests and comes together so easily, it’s practically foolproof. Picture this: a vibrant platter of mini peppers, their shiny skins glistening, all filled with that creamy, spicy pimento cheese. The combination of crunch from the peppers and the rich, cheesy goodness makes for a delightful bite every time.
Many Saturday afternoons, I find myself whipping these up for a gathering at my place. I remember the first time I served them at a barbecue. Guests were raving about them, and I couldn’t help but chuckle because I thought I had improvised something new, only to find out it was already a Southern classic. Let me tell you, there’s nothing quite like a recipe that balances simplicity with a show-stopping flavor!
What’s in Pimento Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers?
– **Mini Sweet Peppers:** These little gems are the star of the show! Their sweetness and vibrant colors make them a delight to eat and look at. Plus, they have a fun crunch that pairs beautifully with the creamy cheese filling.
– **Cream Cheese:** This will be the base of our pimento cheese. I usually opt for full-fat cream cheese for that rich, smooth texture, but there are lighter versions if you’re watching your calories.
– **Sharp Cheddar Cheese:** Now, this is where we kick the flavor up a notch! The sharpness of the cheddar adds a lovely depth to our cheese spread. I love using block cheese and shredding it myself for better texture and taste.
– **Pimentos:** You can find them in the jar or can – either works! They add just the right tang and a pop of color. If you can, use the diced ones without any extra preservatives for a fresher taste.
– **Mayonnaise:** A dollop of mayo adds creaminess and helps bind all of our ingredients together. I love using a good quality mayonnaise for that lift in flavor.
– **Garlic Powder and Onion Powder:** These spices add a warm, savory note. Feel free to adjust to your tastes, and you can always add a bit of smoked paprika if you want to step it up a little further!
Is Pimento Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers Good for You?
These delightful bites can be a fantastic addition to your appetizer table. Here are a few health considerations:
– **Mini Sweet Peppers:** These little guys are packed with nutrients. They are high in vitamins A and C, which are great for your immune system and skin health. They are also low in calories, making them a guilt-free snack!
– **Cream Cheese and Cheddar Cheese:** While delicious, these cheeses can be high in calories and fat. If you’re watching those, you might consider using low-fat alternatives or scaling back on the amounts.
– **Pimentos:** They carry some antioxidants and can be a fun way to add color and flavor without adding extra calories.
– **Mayo:** Using a light version can help you reduce some calories but still keep the creaminess intact.
So while this recipe is undeniably indulgent, you can still enjoy it in moderation, especially if you balance it out with some healthier options during the meal!
Ingredients
– 12 Mini Sweet Peppers (serves 6-8)
– 4 oz Cream Cheese (softened)
– 1 cup Sharp Cheddar Cheese (shredded)
– 1/2 cup Pimentos (drained and chopped)
– 1/4 cup Mayonnaise
– 1 tsp Garlic Powder
– 1 tsp Onion Powder
– Salt and Pepper to taste
How to Make Pimento Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (if you prefer them warm).
2. Slice the mini sweet peppers in half lengthwise and remove the seeds. Set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded sharp cheddar, chopped pimentos, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Mix until everything is well combined and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
5. Spoon the cheese mixture into each half of the mini peppers, packing it in generously.
6. (Optional Step) For a warm version, arrange the stuffed peppers on a baking sheet and bake for about 15-20 minutes until the cheese is slightly bubbly.
7. Serve them chilled or warm, and watch them disappear!
Delicious Variations & Tips for Pimento Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers
– **Spicy Kick:** If you love heat, throw in some diced jalapeños or add a few dashes of hot sauce to your pimento cheese mix!
– **Herb it Up:** Fresh herbs like chives or cilantro mixed in at the end can add an exciting twist.
– **Serving Suggestion:** Serve with crackers or tortilla chips for extra crunch on the side.
– **Make Ahead:** These can be made a few hours in advance. Just store them in the fridge until you’re ready to serve!
Whether you’re hosting friends for drinks or just looking for a fun snack to munch on while binge-watching your favorite show, Pimento Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers are the way to go. I can’t wait for you to whip these up and share your experiences. Trust me, they’ll be a hit!