If you are searching for a delightful, colorful appetizer that’s as charming as it is tasty, look no further than this Pimento Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers Recipe. Bursting with creamy, cheesy goodness and a hint of spice, these little stuffed peppers are perfect for any occasion—from casual get-togethers to elegant parties. Sweet mini peppers filled with a luscious pimento cheese blend create a combo that’s impossible to resist, offering a perfect balance of vibrant color, rich texture, and bold flavor in every bite. This recipe is an absolute crowd-pleaser and a surefire way to brighten up your appetizer platter.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this Pimento Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers Recipe lies in its simple yet carefully chosen ingredients. Each component brings something unique—from sharp cheddar for punchy flavor to the crisp sweetness of mini peppers, everything works together deliciously.
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese (8 oz, grated): Provides the robust cheesy backbone essential for authentic pimento cheese.
- Cream Cheese (4 oz, softened): Adds a creamy smoothness that makes the filling dreamy and easy to spread.
- Mayonnaise (1/4 cup): Helps bind the mixture smoothly while adding a subtle tang.
- Dijon Mustard (2 tablespoons): Brings a mellow heat and depth that liven up the cheese blend.
- Jarred Pimentos (1/4 cup, drained and chopped): Gives that signature sweet pepper flavor and pops of color.
- Garlic Powder (1/4 teaspoon): Infuses a gentle savory note without overpowering.
- Onion Powder (1/4 teaspoon): Enhances the overall flavor with subtle warmth.
- Cayenne Pepper (1/4 teaspoon, optional): Adds a touch of heat for those who enjoy a little kick.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for rounding out the flavors perfectly.
- Mini Sweet Peppers (12-15, halved and deseeded): Deliver the perfect colorful vessel with a sweet crunch.
How to Make Pimento Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
Begin by combining all the filling ingredients in a medium bowl. Mix the grated sharp cheddar, softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, chopped pimentos, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper if using, and salt and pepper. Stir until the mixture is smooth, creamy, and well combined. This filling is where all the flavor excitement happens, so take your time to get the texture just right.
Step 2: Prepare the Peppers
Next, slice your mini sweet peppers in half lengthwise and carefully remove their seeds. Keeping the stems on can make handling easier and also adds a cute, rustic touch to presentation. The sweet, crisp nature of the peppers makes them the perfect colorful boats for the luscious pimento cheese.
Step 3: Stuff the Peppers
Using a small spoon or a piping bag, generously fill each pepper half with the cheese mixture. Be sure to pack the filling in firmly but gently, ensuring every pepper is bursting with that creamy, tangy goodness. This step is so satisfying because you get to see all those vibrant colors and textures come together.
Step 4: Serve
Finally, arrange your stuffed mini peppers on a beautiful platter. You can serve them immediately for that fresh, crisp bite or pop them into the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to let the flavors meld beautifully. Either way, they’ll disappear in no time once you put them on the table!
How to Serve Pimento Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your presentation, consider garnishing the peppers with a sprinkle of smoked paprika or a few fresh chopped chives. A light drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt can also add a delightful finishing touch that enhances both appearance and flavor.
Side Dishes
These stuffed mini peppers pair wonderfully with a crisp green salad or a simple veggie platter. They also complement charcuterie boards beautifully, alongside cured meats and olives, offering an enticing burst of creamy cheese and sweet crunch.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive flair, serve your Pimento Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers Recipe in small individual cups or on skewers for easy grab-and-go bites. You can also nestle them on a bed of fresh herbs or lettuce leaves to add a pop of green and freshness that brightens the whole platter.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The stuffed peppers will stay fresh for up to 2 days, making them a convenient snack or appetizer option for the next day.
Freezing
Freezing is not recommended for this recipe due to the cream cheese and fresh peppers, which can separate or become mushy once thawed. To keep the best texture and flavor, enjoy the peppers fresh or refrigerated.
Reheating
Since the dish is typically served cold or at room temperature, reheating is unnecessary. If preferred, you can let chilled peppers sit out for 15 minutes before serving to take the chill off and let flavors open up.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese in this recipe?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is traditional and gives that classic pimento cheese taste, you can mix in Monterey Jack, pepper jack for extra spice, or even a bit of smoked gouda for a unique twist.
Are mini sweet peppers the only peppers that work?
Mini sweet peppers are ideal because they are naturally small, sweet, and easy to handle, but you could also try baby bell peppers or even mild jalapeños if you want a little heat. Just adjust the spice in the filling accordingly.
Can this recipe be made vegan or dairy-free?
Yes, by substituting vegan cream cheese and cheddar-style shreds along with a plant-based mayo, you can create a dairy-free and vegan-friendly version. The flavors will differ slightly but still be delicious.
How spicy is this recipe?
The cayenne pepper is optional; if you skip it, the dish will have a gentle warmth from the Dijon mustard but remain mild and kid-friendly. Add cayenne if you like a little bite to balance the sweetness of the peppers.
What occasions are best for serving these stuffed peppers?
This Pimento Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers Recipe is perfect for parties, potlucks, picnics, holiday gatherings, or anytime you want an easy yet impressive appetizer. They always make a fun and festive addition to any table.
Final Thoughts
If you haven’t tried the Pimento Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers Recipe yet, now is the perfect time to dive in. It’s a vibrant, flavorful treat that’s easy to make yet feels special. Whether you’re hosting friends or looking for a colorful snack, this recipe delivers joyous flavor and inviting presentation with every bite. Happy stuffing!
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Pimento Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 12-15 stuffed mini pepper halves, serves 12-15
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
Pimento Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers are a colorful and flavorful appetizer featuring sweet mini peppers filled with a creamy, tangy pimento cheese mixture. This no-cook recipe is easy to prepare, perfect for parties, gatherings, or as a quick snack that delivers a delightful combination of sharp cheddar cheese, cream cheese, and a hint of spice.
Ingredients
Pimento Cheese Filling
- 8 oz sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup jarred pimentos, drained and chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Vegetables
- 12–15 mini sweet peppers (red, yellow, or orange), halved and deseeded
Instructions
- Prepare the Filling: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the grated sharp cheddar cheese, softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, chopped pimentos, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper if using, and salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything thoroughly until the mixture is creamy and well blended.
- Prepare the Peppers: Slice each mini sweet pepper in half lengthwise and carefully remove the seeds and membranes. Leave the stems on if you prefer, as they can make handling and presentation easier.
- Stuff the Peppers: Using a spoon or a piping bag, fill each mini pepper half with the prepared pimento cheese mixture, packing it in generously so each pepper is nicely filled.
- Serve: Arrange the stuffed mini peppers on a serving platter. Serve them immediately for the freshest taste or refrigerate for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld before serving.
Notes
- You can prepare the pimento cheese filling a day ahead and refrigerate it to save time.
- For extra garnish, sprinkle with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, increase the cayenne pepper or add a dash of hot sauce to the filling.
- Keep the stuffed peppers refrigerated if not serving immediately to maintain freshness and texture.
