How to Create Savory Bacon and Cheddar Stuffed Peppers
Stuffed peppers are an easy and satisfying dish that everyone loves. When you add smoky bacon and gooey cheddar cheese to the mix, it becomes truly special. This recipe is simple yet packed with flavor, making it perfect for dinner, parties, or an afternoon snack. Follow along as we show you how to create savory bacon and cheddar stuffed peppers step by step.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before starting, gather your ingredients. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:
- 6 medium-sized bell peppers (any color works, but red, yellow, or orange are sweeter)
- 6 strips of bacon
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or more, depending on how cheesy you like it!)
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: chopped scallions or parsley for garnish
These ingredients are basic, but you can customize them based on your personal tastes. For example, adding cooked rice, mushrooms, or diced jalapeños can make the peppers even heartier.
Step 1: Prepare the Peppers
Start by prepping the bell peppers. Wash them thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt. Then, cut each pepper in half, lengthwise. Be sure to remove the seeds and white membranes inside the peppers; these can be bitter and tough when cooked.
Once your peppers are clean and halved, set them aside on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. The baking sheet will catch any melted cheese that might drip as the peppers cook.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
Bacon is one of the stars of this dish, so cook it until crispy for maximum flavor. You can fry the bacon in a skillet over medium heat or bake it in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-15 minutes. Once the bacon is done, place it on a paper towel to absorb the excess grease. Once cooled, chop the bacon into small pieces. These will be your crunchy, smoky bites in the filling.
Step 3: Make the Filling
Creating the filling is quick and easy. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Stir everything together until it forms a creamy and flavorful mixture.
Next, fold in the chopped bacon pieces. Be sure to mix thoroughly so every bite of the filling contains cheesy, bacony goodness. If you want more texture, you can add diced scallions, parsley, or even a few chili flakes for a spicy kick.
Step 4: Stuff the Peppers
Now comes the fun part—stuffing the peppers. Using a spoon or your hands, carefully fill each halved pepper with the cheesy bacon mixture. Don’t be afraid to pack the filling in tightly, as it will spread slightly when cooked. For an extra cheesy top, sprinkle a little extra shredded cheddar on each pepper before baking.
Step 5: Bake the Peppers
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once the oven is ready, place the baking sheet with your stuffed peppers inside. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the peppers are soft and the cheese is bubbling and golden.
If you want the tops of the peppers to be extra crispy and cheesy, turn on the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once the peppers are golden and bubbly, take them out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley or scallions for a fresh touch. Now, you’re ready to serve!
These bacon and cheddar stuffed peppers are perfect as a main dish or side dish. Pair them with a green salad, roasted veggies, or even some crusty bread for a complete meal. You can also store leftovers in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave, and they’ll taste just as delicious.
Tips for Customizing Your Recipe
While this recipe is delicious as-is, there are countless ways to make it your own. Here are a few ideas:
- Different Cheeses: Swap out cheddar for mozzarella, pepper jack, or gouda for unique flavor profiles.
- Add Grains: Mix cooked rice, quinoa, or couscous into the filling for added texture and nutrition.
- Make It Spicy: Stir in diced jalapeños, hot sauce, or chili flakes if you like a bit of heat.
- Vegetarian Option: Skip the bacon and add sautéed mushrooms or spinach instead.
Final Thoughts
Bacon and cheddar stuffed peppers are a crowd-pleasing recipe that looks fancy but is surprisingly simple to make. With creamy cheese, crispy bacon, and sweet roasted peppers, this dish is loaded with irresistible flavors. Whether you’re cooking for your family, entertaining guests, or treating yourself, this recipe will leave everyone coming back for more. Happy cooking!
