Stuffed hot peppers with cheese

Delicious stuffed chili peppers with cheese recipe – An explosion of flavors and textures!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Number of servings: 4

When it comes to dishes that combine flavor with a touch of adventure, stuffed chili peppers with cheese are definitely one of the favorites. This recipe is ideal not only for spicy food lovers but also for those looking to discover new flavors. Whether you enjoy them as an appetizer at a party or as a delicious snack on the weekend, these chili peppers are guaranteed to be a hit!

A little history of the recipe

Stuffed chili peppers are a traditional dish in many culinary cultures, with deep roots in gastronomy. Over time, this dish has evolved, being adapted based on local ingredients and personal preferences. The fillings can vary from meat and rice to cheese and vegetables, but the combination of cheese and bacon offers a perfect contrast between creamy and crunchy, as well as between spicy and salty.

Necessary ingredients

- 12 chili peppers (preferably small, such as chili or jalapeño peppers)
- 200 g Philadelphia cheese (or other types of creamy cheese like Almette or Exquisa)
- 12 slices of bacon
- 1 teaspoon of fresh thyme (or ½ teaspoon of dried thyme)
- Salt and pepper to taste

Necessary utensils

- Kitchen knife
- Spoon
- Baking tray
- Baking paper (optional)
- Mixing bowl

Preparation method

1. Preparing the peppers: Start by washing the chili peppers well under cold running water. Using a knife, cut off the tops of the peppers and remove the seeds with a spoon. This is a crucial step, as the seeds contain most of the heat. If you want a milder flavor, make sure to remove all the seeds.

2. Preparing the filling: In a bowl, combine the Philadelphia cheese with the chopped thyme, adding salt and pepper to taste. Mix well until you achieve a homogeneous composition.

3. Stuffing the peppers: Using a spoon, fill each pepper with the cheese mixture, being careful not to leave any empty space. The filling should be well compacted so that it doesn’t leak during baking.

4. Wrapping in bacon: Each stuffed pepper will be wrapped in a slice of bacon. Make sure the bacon completely covers the pepper to achieve a crispy and delicious crust. If the bacon doesn’t hold, you can use toothpicks to secure it.

5. Baking: Preheat the oven to 200°C. Place the stuffed peppers in a baking tray, which you can line with baking paper. Bake the peppers for 20 minutes or until the bacon becomes crispy and golden.

6. Serving: Once the peppers are ready, let them cool for a few minutes before serving. They can be enjoyed warm, alongside a cold beer that will perfectly balance the spiciness of the peppers.

Useful tips

- Choose the peppers carefully: If you are not a fan of too much heat, opt for milder peppers or even bell peppers, which offer a pleasant sweetness.
- Cheese variations: You can experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or feta, to achieve a different texture and flavor.
- Add spices: Try adding spices like garlic or onion powder to the cheese filling to enhance the flavor.
- Grill cooking: If you want to add a smoky flavor, try grilling the peppers instead of baking them.

Nutritional information

This recipe for stuffed chili peppers with cheese offers a healthy mix of protein from bacon and cheese, while the peppers are an excellent source of vitamins C and A. Each serving has approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the type of cheese and bacon used. By consuming this snack, you will benefit from the antioxidant properties of the peppers, which can help strengthen the immune system.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use sweet peppers instead of chili peppers?
Yes, sweet peppers can be an excellent alternative, especially if you want a milder version of the recipe.

2. How can I store leftover peppers?
Stuffed peppers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Reheat them in the oven to return to a crispy texture.

3. Can I prepare the peppers in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed peppers a day in advance, keeping them in the refrigerator and baking them before serving.

Serving recommendations

These stuffed chili peppers with cheese pair perfectly with a fresh salad of tomatoes and cucumbers or a portion of guacamole. For a more elaborate appetizer, try serving them with a yogurt sauce flavored with mint and garlic. These combinations will enrich the culinary experience and make your meal a true feast!

In conclusion, the recipe for stuffed chili peppers with cheese is not only simple and quick but also full of flavor. Experiment with the ingredients and discover new and interesting combinations. Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family to bring a touch of joy to every meal!