Roasted Goat Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers Recipe
Introduction
Roasted Goat Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers are a delightful, bite-sized appetizer that’s full of creamy, tangy flavor. These vibrant peppers stuffed with smooth goat cheese and drizzled with balsamic glaze make an impressive yet easy dish for any gathering.
Ingredients
- 1 pound mini sweet bell peppers (about 12 peppers)
- 10 ounces goat cheese
- Balsamic glaze, to drizzle
- Honey, to drizzle
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme (or dried)
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Step 2: Wash and dry the mini peppers. Cut each pepper in half lengthwise and carefully remove the seeds and white membranes.
- Step 3: Spoon a small amount of goat cheese into each pepper half. You can fill them generously or use just a little—tailor it to your preference.
- Step 4: Arrange the stuffed peppers in a single layer on a baking dish or sheet.
- Step 5: Roast in the oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the peppers are softened and lightly browned or charred.
- Step 6: Remove from the oven and transfer the peppers to a serving platter. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and honey, then sprinkle with fresh thyme and freshly ground black pepper.
- Step 7: Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips & Variations
- Use fresh thyme for a brighter herb flavor and appealing green color, but dried thyme works well in a pinch.
- For an extra kick, add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes before roasting.
- Try swapping goat cheese with cream cheese or ricotta for a milder taste.
- Drizzle a bit of extra virgin olive oil before roasting to add richness.
Storage
Store leftover stuffed peppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving to maintain their creamy texture and flavor.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I prepare these stuffed peppers ahead of time?
Yes, you can stuff the peppers and keep them in the fridge for a few hours before roasting. However, they are best enjoyed fresh and warm right after cooking.
What type of balsamic glaze should I use?
Use a good quality balsamic glaze or reduction for the best flavor. You can buy it pre-made or make your own by simmering balsamic vinegar until it thickens.
PrintRoasted Goat Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers Recipe
These Roasted Goat Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers are a delightful appetizer featuring sweet mini bell peppers filled with creamy goat cheese, roasted to perfection, then drizzled with balsamic glaze and honey. Enhanced with fresh thyme and black pepper, this dish offers a beautiful balance of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors, perfect for entertaining or a light snack.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 35-40 minutes
- Yield: 12 stuffed mini pepper halves (serves 4–6 as appetizer) 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Peppers
- 1 pound mini sweet bell peppers (about 12 peppers)
Filling
- 10 ounce goat cheese
Toppings
- Balsamic glaze, to drizzle
- Honey, to drizzle
- 2 Tbsp fresh thyme (or dried thyme)
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F to ensure it reaches the perfect roasting temperature for the peppers.
- Prepare Peppers: Wash and dry the mini sweet bell peppers thoroughly. Slice each pepper in half lengthwise and carefully remove the seeds and white membranes.
- Stuff Peppers: Spread a couple of scoops of goat cheese into each pepper half. You can adjust the amount of cheese depending on your preference, either filling them to the brim or using a small spoonful as a guide.
- Arrange for Roasting: Lay all the stuffed pepper halves in a single layer on a baking dish or sheet. Make sure they are evenly spaced for uniform roasting.
- Roast: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and roast the peppers for 20-25 minutes, or until the peppers are softened, lightly browned, and slightly charred.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the roasted mini peppers from the oven and transfer to a serving platter. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and honey, then sprinkle with fresh thyme leaves and freshly ground black pepper. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- You can use dried thyme if fresh is not available, but fresh thyme provides a better color and aroma.
- Adjust the amount of goat cheese to suit your taste—more cheese for a richer bite or less for a lighter option.
- Balsamic glaze can be store-bought or homemade for added depth.
- Serve these roasted stuffed peppers as an appetizer or a side dish for parties and gatherings.
- They are best enjoyed warm but can also be served at room temperature.
Keywords: roasted stuffed peppers, goat cheese appetizer, mini bell peppers, baked snacks, vegetarian appetizer
