Baked Stuffed Peppers are a delightful and colorful dish that brings together the comforting flavors of cheese and eggs, all wrapped in a nutritious pepper shell. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a satisfying meal that’s also visually appealing. With a blend of spices and creamy cheese, these stuffed peppers will surely become a favorite addition to your meal rotation.
Why We Love This Baked Stuffed Peppers Recipe
The appeal of Baked Stuffed Peppers goes beyond their stunning appearance. They are incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize the recipe based on your preferences. You can enjoy them as a hearty breakfast, a delicious brunch, or a fulfilling dinner. Additionally, they offer a wonderful balance of taste and nutrition. With ingredients like poblano peppers, eggs, and cheese, you get a dish that is both satisfying and nourishing. Plus, they’re an excellent way to use up extra vegetables and make leftovers disappear in a flash!
Ingredients about Baked Stuffed Peppers
To create your own batch of Baked Stuffed Peppers, you will need the following ingredients:
- 4 poblano peppers
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- Olive oil spray or cooking spray
How to Make Baked Stuffed Peppers Directions
Making Baked Stuffed Peppers is a straightforward process that yields delicious results. Follow these easy steps:
- Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature ensures your peppers cook evenly.
- Roast the Peppers: Place the poblano peppers under the broiler. Roast the peppers for about 5-10 minutes, or until their skins are charred and blistered. This roasting step enhances the flavor and adds a delightful smokiness.
- Steam the Peppers: After roasting, transfer the peppers to a bowl and cover them with plastic wrap. Let them steam for about 10 minutes. This steaming process helps loosen the skin for easier peeling.
- Peel and Prepare: Once the peppers have cooled enough to handle, peel the charred skins off and slice them down one side, removing the seeds carefully. This step creates a pocket for your delicious filling.
- Stuff the Peppers: Pack shredded cheese generously into each pepper. Choose your favorite cheese blend to personalize this dish to your taste.
- Mix the Egg Mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, paprika, and cumin until everything is well combined.
- Assemble the Dish: Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil spray and place your stuffed peppers in the dish. Pour the egg mixture over the stuffed peppers, ensuring they are well-covered.
- Bake: Place the prepared baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for about 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know they are done when the egg is set and slightly golden on top.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once out of the oven, allow them to cool slightly. Serve warm, and consider garnishing with fresh herbs or your favorite sides to enhance the meal.
How to Serve Baked Stuffed Peppers
Baked Stuffed Peppers can be served in numerous enjoyable ways. They make for a delightful breakfast option, providing a nutritious start to your day. If you’re serving them for lunch or dinner, consider pairing them with a green salad or some steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal. You can also offer a dollop of sour cream or yogurt on the side for those who enjoy a creamy addition. For a fun twist, add some fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley to sprinkle on top; they add a burst of freshness that complements the bold flavors of the stuffed peppers beautifully.
Expert Tips: Baked Stuffed Peppers
To ensure your Baked Stuffed Peppers turn out perfectly, consider these helpful tips:
- Choose Ripe Peppers: Look for poblano peppers that are firm and smooth, with no blemishes. The fresher the pepper, the better the flavor.
- Play with Cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese for varying flavors. A sharp cheddar will provide a different taste profile compared to a mild Monterey Jack.
- Adjust the Spices: Feel free to tweak the spices according to your preferences. If you enjoy heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or including diced jalapeños in the cheese filling.
- Don’t Over-Stuff: It’s tempting to pack your peppers full of cheese, but ensure you leave enough room for the egg mixture to fill in around the cheese for an even cooking texture.
- Check Doneness: Keep an eye on the baking time and check for doneness. Every oven is different, so if your peppers seem done before 30 minutes, don’t hesitate to take them out!
How to Store Baked Stuffed Peppers
Storing leftover Baked Stuffed Peppers is simple. Once they have cooled to room temperature, place them in an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them for a longer period, you can freeze them. Simply wrap each stuffed pepper individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. When properly stored, they can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, just thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and bake them in the oven until heated through.
Variation of Baked Stuffed Peppers
Baked Stuffed Peppers offer endless possibilities for variations. Here are some ideas to inspire your creativity:
- Quinoa or Rice Base: For added texture and nutrition, combine cooked quinoa or rice with the cheese mix before stuffing the peppers. This will make it a heartier dish.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate finely chopped spicy peppers or a dash of hot sauce into the egg mixture for an extra kick.
- Vegetarian Option: Add sautéed vegetables such as onions, mushrooms, or spinach to the cheese filling for a delicious vegetarian twist.
- Protein-Packed: If you want a protein boost, consider adding cooked ground chicken or turkey to the cheese filling. This makes the dish even more satisfying.
- Personalize the Topping: Top the early peppers with breadcrumbs mixed with herbs before baking for a crunchy texture.
FAQ
What can I serve with Baked Stuffed Peppers?
You can serve Baked Stuffed Peppers with a fresh salad, steamed veggies, or even some crusty bread for a complete meal.
Are Baked Stuffed Peppers healthy?
Yes, Baked Stuffed Peppers are quite healthy as they are filled with nutritious ingredients like peppers, eggs, and cheese, providing a good balance of protein and vitamins.
Can I make Baked Stuffed Peppers ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the peppers and stuff them a day in advance. Just cover them and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.
How do I reheat Baked Stuffed Peppers?
To reheat, place the leftover stuffed peppers in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Bake at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Can I use other types of peppers?
While poblano peppers are traditional, you can use bell peppers, Anaheim peppers, or even jalapeños for a spicier version!
By experimenting with these variations and following the straightforward process outlined, you’ll be well on your way to creating satisfying Baked Stuffed Peppers that you and your loved ones will adore. Enjoy the journey of discovering your perfect flavor combinations!
Baked Stuffed Peppers
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces poblano peppers Choose firm and smooth peppers
- 1 cup shredded cheese Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- Olive oil spray or cooking spray For greasing the baking dish
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the poblano peppers under the broiler. Roast for about 5-10 minutes until the skins are charred and blistered.
- Transfer the roasted peppers to a bowl and cover with plastic wrap. Let them steam for about 10 minutes.
- Once cool, peel the charred skins off and slice down one side, removing the seeds to create a pocket.
Stuffing
- Pack shredded cheese generously into each pepper.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, paprika, and cumin until well combined.
- Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil spray and place stuffed peppers inside.
- Pour the egg mixture over the stuffed peppers, ensuring they are covered.
Baking
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 to 30 minutes, or until the egg is set and slightly golden on top.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving warm.
Send me this recipe!
Just enter your email below and get it sent straight to your inbox!