Goat Cheese Stuffed Peppers: A Delicious and Elegant Appetizer

When it comes to appetizers that are both beautiful and delicious, goat cheese stuffed peppers stand out as a crowd-pleaser. Mini sweet bell peppers filled with creamy goat cheese, fresh herbs, and a touch of honey make the perfect combination of savory and sweet. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a quick and easy snack, these stuffed peppers are sure to impress your guests and elevate your table.

In this article, you’ll learn how to create this simple yet elegant dish, along with tips for customization, serving suggestions, and more.

Why You’ll Love Goat Cheese Stuffed Peppers

These stuffed peppers are the epitome of a versatile appetizer. They’re:

• Flavorful: The creamy goat cheese pairs perfectly with the sweet mini peppers and honey drizzle.
• Nutritious: Packed with protein, vitamins, and fresh ingredients.
• Simple to Make: Requires minimal prep and only 20 minutes in the oven.
• Customizable: Add your favorite herbs or spices to make it your own.

Ingredients for Goat Cheese Stuffed Peppers

Ingredient	Quantity	Notes
Mini sweet bell peppers	16	Choose fresh, vibrant peppers
Goat cheese	8–10 oz (1 log)	Regular or honey-flavored works well
Shallots	2 (minced)	Adds a subtle sweetness and depth
Green onion	1 (diced)	Provides a fresh, mild onion flavor
Basil leaves	15–18 (chopped)	Adds an aromatic, fresh herb flavor
Garlic	2 cloves (minced)	Enhances the overall taste
Honey	1½–2 tbsp	Drizzle for a touch of sweetness

Equipment Needed

• Parchment paper
• Sheet pan

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

1. Set your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a sheet pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

2. Prepare the Mini Bell Peppers

1. Wash the peppers thoroughly and dry them with a paper towel.
2. Slice each pepper in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membrane using a small spoon or knife.

3. Make the Goat Cheese Mixture

1. In a mixing bowl, combine goat cheese, minced shallots, diced green onion, chopped basil, and minced garlic.
2. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.

4. Stuff the Peppers

1. Using a spoon, fill each pepper half with the goat cheese mixture.
2. Press gently to ensure the filling stays in place.

5. Bake the Stuffed Peppers

1. Arrange the stuffed peppers on the parchment-lined sheet pan, cut side up.
2. Bake for 20 minutes, or until the peppers are soft and the cheese is golden.

6. Add the Finishing Touch

1. While the peppers are still warm, drizzle them with honey for a sweet and tangy finish.
2. Serve immediately with extra honey on the side if desired.

Pro Tips for Perfect Goat Cheese Stuffed Peppers

1. Choose the Right Peppers

Mini sweet bell peppers are ideal for their naturally sweet flavor and bite-sized convenience.

2. Soften the Goat Cheese

Let the goat cheese sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before mixing. This makes it easier to blend with the other ingredients.

3. Don’t Overfill

Fill the peppers just to the rim to avoid overflowing while baking.

4. Experiment with Herbs

If basil isn’t your favorite, try thyme, parsley, or chives for a different flavor profile.

5. Serve Warm

These peppers taste best when served warm, but they’re also delicious at room temperature.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Per Serving (Approx.)
Calories	~120 kcal
Protein	~4g
Carbohydrates	~8g
Fat	~7g
Fiber	~2g
Sugar	~5g

Serving Suggestions for Goat Cheese Stuffed Peppers

These stuffed peppers are versatile and pair well with many dishes:

1. Appetizer Platter: Serve alongside crackers, olives, and cured meats for a Mediterranean-inspired board.
2. Salad Topping: Add these peppers to a fresh green salad for extra flavor.
3. Side Dish: Pair with grilled chicken, steak, or fish for a complete meal.
4. Party Snack: Arrange on a platter with toothpicks for easy serving at gatherings.

Delicious Variations to Try

1. Spicy Stuffed Peppers

Add a pinch of red chili flakes or diced jalapeños to the goat cheese mixture for a spicy kick.

2. Nutty Crunch

Sprinkle chopped walnuts or almonds on top before baking for added texture.

3. Herbed Delight

Mix in fresh dill, parsley, or rosemary for a unique herbal twist.

4. Balsamic Drizzle

Replace honey with a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a tangy finish.

5. Vegan Option

Use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative and maple syrup instead of honey for a vegan-friendly version.

FAQs About Goat Cheese Stuffed Peppers

1. Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?

Yes! Prepare the peppers and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Bake them just before serving.

2. What Other Cheeses Can I Use?

While goat cheese is ideal, cream cheese or ricotta can also work as a substitute.

3. Are These Peppers Gluten-Free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.

4. Can I Grill Instead of Bake?

Absolutely! Grill the stuffed peppers over medium heat for 8–10 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

5. How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

6. Can I Use Regular Bell Peppers?

Yes, but you’ll need to cut them into smaller portions to make them bite-sized.

Why You Should Make Goat Cheese Stuffed Peppers Today

Goat cheese stuffed peppers are a perfect balance of flavor, texture, and elegance. They’re simple to prepare, healthy, and versatile enough to fit any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a quick appetizer, these stuffed peppers are guaranteed to impress.

So, grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a dish that’s as delicious as it is beautiful!

Print