Imagine biting into a vibrant, sun-kissed pepper bursting with flavor. Each mouthful of Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers delivers a delightful medley of creamy ricotta, fresh herbs, and a touch of zest that dances on your palate. These beauties make the perfect centerpiece for dinner or a delightful side that steals the show. For more inspiration, check out this Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts recipe.
I remember the first time I whipped up these stuffed peppers; they were an instant hit at my family gathering. Everyone was so busy raving about them that my cousin almost missed out on dessert—now that’s what I call a compliment! Picture these colorful peppers gracing your table during summer barbecues or cozy autumn evenings, promising smiles with every bite.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners
- The combination of fresh herbs and creamy ricotta creates an unforgettable flavor profile
- Visually stunning with a rainbow of colors, they’re sure to impress any guest
- Enjoy them as a main dish or a versatile side that pairs well with various meals
I once made these peppers during a potluck, and my friends devoured them faster than I could say “seconds.” Their delighted expressions were priceless!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Bell Peppers: Choose vibrant colors like red, yellow, or orange for sweetness and visual appeal.
- Ricotta Cheese: Opt for creamy ricotta; it lends the stuffing its rich texture and mild flavor.
- Fresh Herbs: Basil and parsley are fantastic additions; they elevate flavors with freshness.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves add depth; don’t skimp on this essential ingredient.
- Lemon Zest: A sprinkle brightens up the filling and enhances the overall taste experience.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds savory notes and helps bind everything together.
- Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for drizzling; it brings richness to the dish.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust to your taste preferences as you go along.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare the Peppers: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while you wash your bell peppers under cool water. Cut off the tops and remove seeds gently.
Mix the Filling: In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, finely chopped herbs, minced garlic, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth; it should look like a luscious cloud of deliciousness.
Stuff the Peppers: Spoon generous amounts of the filling into each pepper until they overflow slightly. You want them to look like they’ve just eaten their favorite meal!
Add Toppings: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over each stuffed pepper. Drizzle with olive oil for added flavor before placing them in an oven-safe dish.
Bake Until Golden: Place your stuffed peppers in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. They’re done when the tops are golden brown and their aroma fills your kitchen.
Savor and Serve!: Let them cool slightly before serving—if you can resist! Garnish with additional fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy these beauties warm!
Now you have a deliciously unique dish that will surely impress anyone lucky enough to share your table!
You Must Know
- Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers are not only delicious but can easily transform your weeknight dinner
- The vibrant colors and enticing aromas will captivate your family, making it a dish to remember
- Customize them with seasonal veggies for an added twist that surprises everyone!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
First, roast the peppers at 400°F until tender, then prepare the ricotta filling while they cool. This way, everything comes together beautifully without fuss.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out herbs based on your preferences or even add crumbled sausage for an extra kick. It’s all about what makes your taste buds dance!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in a microwave or oven until warmed through to maintain their deliciousness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When prepping your peppers, slice them neatly for even cooking and a professional look
- Use fresh herbs for maximum flavor; dried just won’t cut it here!
- Always taste your ricotta filling before stuffing—it’s the secret to deliciousness!
I remember the first time I made Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers for my friends. Their delighted faces as they took their first bites still bring a smile to my face.
FAQ
What can I substitute for ricotta in stuffed peppers?
Cottage cheese or cream cheese works well as a ricotta alternative, adding unique flavors.
Can I make these stuffed peppers ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare and stuff the peppers in advance, then bake them when ready to serve.
How do I make my stuffed peppers spicier?
Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the ricotta mixture for extra heat!

Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Savor the vibrant taste of Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers, a stunning dish that combines creamy ricotta with fresh herbs and zesty lemon. These colorful peppers make an impressive centerpiece for any meal, whether as a main dish or a delightful side. Perfect for family gatherings, summer barbecues, or cozy dinners, this recipe will leave everyone wanting more!
Ingredients
- 4 large bell peppers (red, yellow, or orange)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Wash and prepare the bell peppers by cutting off the tops and removing seeds.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, chopped herbs, minced garlic, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.
- Generously stuff each pepper with the ricotta mixture until slightly overflowing.
- Place stuffed peppers in an oven-safe dish. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan and drizzle with olive oil.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until tops are golden brown and fragrant.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving; garnish with additional herbs if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pepper (200g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 13g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: Customize your filling by adding crumbled sausage or swapping herbs based on your preference. For added depth of flavor, consider roasting the peppers at 400°F before stuffing them.