Sausage Stuffed Sweet Mini Peppers

Introduction

Sausage Stuffed Sweet Mini Peppers are the kind of appetizer that everyone gravitates toward at a party. Their vibrant colors immediately catch your eye, and their irresistible aroma draws you in. Each sweet mini bell pepper is filled with a savory sausage mixture, seasoned to perfection, and topped with just the right amount of cheese that melts into golden, bubbly perfection. The contrast of the natural sweetness of the peppers with the hearty, spiced sausage filling creates a flavor combination that’s simply unforgettable.

The first time I made these, I was hosting a small family gathering and wanted an appetizer that was both easy to make and a little different from the usual fare. As I scooped the filling into the hollowed-out peppers and placed them in the oven, I could already imagine how delicious they would be. When they emerged, hot and fragrant, I couldn’t resist sneaking a bite. The sweet, tender pepper paired with the rich, flavorful filling was everything I hoped for and more.

What I love most about Sausage Stuffed Sweet Mini Peppers is their versatility. They can be customized with different sausage varieties, cheeses, or even a sprinkle of herbs for added flair. They’re not only a hit at parties but also make a fantastic snack or a light lunch paired with a salad. Plus, they’re naturally low-carb and gluten-free, making them a great option for a variety of dietary preferences. Whether you’re hosting a big celebration or just looking for a quick and delicious appetizer, these stuffed peppers are guaranteed to impress.

Perfect for:

• Holiday parties
• Game day snacks
• Potluck contributions
• Family dinners
• Low-carb appetizers

Why You’ll Love This Sausage Stuffed Sweet Mini Peppers Recipe

Here’s why Sausage Stuffed Sweet Mini Peppers are a must-try:

• Vibrant and Appetizing Appearance: The colorful mini peppers make these appetizers visually appealing and festive.
• Burst of Flavor in Every Bite: The combination of savory sausage, creamy cheese, and sweet peppers creates a perfect balance of flavors.
• Quick and Easy to Prepare: This recipe comes together in no time, making it ideal for last-minute party prep.
• Customizable Filling: You can easily swap out ingredients to suit dietary preferences or flavor profiles.
• Low-Carb and Gluten-Free Option: These stuffed peppers are naturally low in carbs and gluten-free, making them suitable for a variety of diets.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 6 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 150-180 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 9g, Carbs: 6g, Fat: 10g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make Sausage Stuffed Sweet Mini Peppers:

• 1 lb sweet mini bell peppers
• ½ lb ground sausage (chicken or turkey sausage for a lighter option)
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Ingredient Highlights

• Sweet Mini Bell Peppers: Their natural sweetness contrasts beautifully with the savory sausage filling.
• Ground Sausage: Adds rich flavor and a hearty texture to the stuffing.
• Cream Cheese: Provides a creamy and smooth base for the filling.
• Mozzarella and Parmesan Cheese: Enhance the richness and provide a cheesy finish to the dish.
• Smoked Paprika: Adds a subtle smoky flavor to complement the sausage.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Sausage Stuffed Sweet Mini Peppers:

Prepare the Peppers:

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
2. Cut the Peppers: Slice each mini pepper lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes. Arrange them cut-side up on the prepared baking sheet.

Prepare the Filling:

3. Cook the Sausage: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground sausage until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess grease and set aside to cool slightly.
4. Mix the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked sausage, cream cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.

Stuff the Peppers:

5. Fill the Peppers: Spoon the sausage mixture into each mini pepper half, pressing it gently to fill evenly.
6. Add Cheese Topping: If desired, sprinkle a bit of additional shredded mozzarella or Parmesan on top of each stuffed pepper.

Bake the Peppers:

7. Bake Until Golden: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted and golden.
8. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.

How to Serve Sausage Stuffed Sweet Mini Peppers

Sausage Stuffed Sweet Mini Peppers are versatile and can be served in various ways:

• As an Appetizer: Serve these on a platter with toothpicks for easy grabbing at parties.
• With a Dipping Sauce: Pair with ranch dressing, marinara sauce, or a spicy aioli for added flavor.
• On a Grazing Board: Include them as part of a charcuterie board alongside meats, cheeses, and crackers.
• For a Snack: Enjoy them as a savory, protein-packed snack between meals.
• As a Side Dish: Serve alongside roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a light meal.

Additional Tips for Sausage Stuffed Sweet Mini Peppers

Here are some tips to make your Sausage Stuffed Sweet Mini Peppers perfect every time:

• Choose Fresh Peppers: Look for mini peppers that are firm and brightly colored for the best results.
• Cook Sausage Thoroughly: Ensure the sausage is fully cooked before mixing it into the filling.
• Soften the Cream Cheese: Allow the cream cheese to come to room temperature for easier mixing.
• Don’t Overfill: Avoid overstuffing the peppers to prevent the filling from spilling out during baking.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the filling and stuff the peppers ahead of time, then refrigerate until ready to bake.

Recipe Variations for Sausage Stuffed Sweet Mini Peppers

Try these 10 variations to customize your Sausage Stuffed Sweet Mini Peppers:

1. Vegetarian Stuffed Peppers: Substitute sausage with cooked quinoa or lentils for a meat-free option.
2. Spicy Sausage Stuffing: Use hot Italian sausage for a spicy kick.
3. Mexican-Inspired Peppers: Add taco seasoning and black beans to the filling for a Tex-Mex twist.
4. Bacon-Wrapped Peppers: Wrap each stuffed pepper half with a strip of turkey bacon before baking.
5. Herb-Infused Filling: Mix fresh basil, thyme, or rosemary into the filling for an herbal note.
6. Cheddar-Stuffed Peppers: Swap mozzarella with sharp cheddar cheese for a bolder flavor.
7. Spinach and Sausage Peppers: Add sautéed spinach to the sausage filling for extra nutrients.
8. Four-Cheese Peppers: Use a blend of cream cheese, ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan for a creamy, cheesy filling.
9. Mediterranean Peppers: Incorporate feta cheese, olives, and sun-dried tomatoes into the filling.
10. Breakfast Peppers: Use ground breakfast sausage and add scrambled eggs to the mix for a morning treat.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: Assemble the stuffed peppers but don’t bake them. Freeze them on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Special Equipment for Sausage Stuffed Sweet Mini Peppers

Here’s some special equipment that will make preparing Sausage Stuffed Sweet Mini Peppers easier:

1. Baking Sheet: Perfect for roasting the stuffed mini peppers evenly without crowding, ensuring a crisp texture.
2. Parchment Paper: Helps prevent sticking while baking and makes cleanup easier after cooking.
3. Sharp Knife: Ideal for carefully cutting the mini peppers without crushing them and for slicing the sausage.
4. Spoon or Melon Baller: Used to scoop out the seeds from the mini peppers for easy stuffing.
5. Large Mixing Bowl: Perfect for combining the sausage, cheese, and seasonings before stuffing the peppers.
6. Stuffing Spoon: Helps pack the sausage mixture into the mini peppers without making a mess.
7. Skillet: For browning the sausage and any vegetables before stuffing the peppers, enhancing the flavor.
8. Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensures precise measurement of ingredients like cheese, breadcrumbs, and spices.
9. Basting Brush: Useful for brushing the peppers with olive oil or butter before roasting for a golden, crispy finish.
10. Serving Platter: To elegantly serve the stuffed mini peppers once they are ready, enhancing the presentation.

FAQ Section for Sausage Stuffed Sweet Mini Peppers

1. Can I use regular-sized bell peppers?
   Yes, but you may need to adjust the cooking time to ensure the larger peppers cook through.
2. Can I make these ahead of time?
   Yes, assemble the stuffed peppers and refrigerate them up to 24 hours before baking.
3. What’s a good substitute for sausage?
   Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based sausage crumbles work well.
4. Can I freeze leftovers?
   Yes, you can freeze baked or unbaked stuffed peppers. Just reheat them in the oven when ready to serve.
5. How do I keep the filling from spilling out?
   Avoid overfilling the peppers and press the mixture gently to ensure it stays in place.

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Conclusion

Sausage Stuffed Sweet Mini Peppers are a delightful and versatile appetizer that’s both visually stunning and incredibly tasty. With their balance of sweet and savory flavors, they’re perfect for impressing guests or enjoying as a family snack. This easy, customizable recipe is sure to become a go-to for any occasion.

Treat yourself and your loved ones to these flavorful bites—you won’t regret it! Be sure to snap a photo and tag me on Instagram—I’d love to see how you make these mini peppers your own. Don’t forget to leave a comment and share your thoughts! Happy cooking!