Ingredients
12 large fresh banana peppers
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a large baking sheet with olive oil or non-stick spray.
Step 2: Wash the banana peppers and pat them dry. Using a sharp knife, make a single lengthwise slit in each pepper. Gently remove the seeds and membranes, being careful to keep the pepper intact.
Step 3: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, chives, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Mix until smooth and well-combined.
Step 4: Using a small spoon or a piping bag, carefully fill each pepper with the cheese mixture. Do not overstuff, as the filling will expand.
Step 5: Place the stuffed peppers on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
Step 6: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese filling is bubbly and lightly golden on top.
Step 7: Remove from the oven and allow them to cool for 5 minutes before serving to let the cheese set.
Notes
For a spicier version, leave a few seeds inside the peppers. Always wear gloves when deseeded peppers to avoid skin irritation.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dishes & Savory Recipes
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 Stuffed Peppers
- Calories: 185 kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1.5g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 35mg