Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

If you’re looking for a dish that’s not only delicious but also comforting and easy to whip up, then these Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Peppers are for you! This recipe has become a family favorite in our home. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak some veggies into your meal while enjoying creamy ricotta and savory flavors.

These stuffed peppers are versatile enough to impress at family gatherings or cozy dinners with friends. The combination of fresh ingredients and warm spices creates a delightful experience that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, even beginner cooks can master this dish quickly.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike adore these colorful peppers filled with cheesy goodness.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prep them in advance and bake them just before serving, making dinner stress-free!
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with spinach and nutrients, this recipe offers a wonderful balance of taste and health.
• Delicious Flavor: The blend of ricotta, Parmesan, and Italian seasoning makes each bite melt-in-your-mouth delightful.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully in this dish. You’ll find everything you need right in your pantry or local grocery store!

• 4 Large Bell Peppers (any color) – These form the edible bowls for our filling. Choose peppers that are firm, relatively uniform in size, and can stand upright when halved. Red, yellow, or orange peppers tend to be sweeter than green ones.
• 1 tbsp Olive Oil – Extra virgin olive oil is preferred for sautéing the aromatics, adding a fruity depth.
• 1 medium Yellow Onion (finely chopped) – Provides a foundational sweet and savory flavor base for the filling.
• 3-4 cloves Garlic (minced) – Essential for its pungent aroma and flavor boost. Adjust the amount based on your preference for garlic.
• 1 (10 oz) package Frozen Chopped Spinach (thawed and squeezed very dry) – Using frozen spinach is convenient. The crucial step is squeezing out as much water as possible to prevent a soggy filling. Alternatively, use about 1 pound of fresh spinach, wilted and squeezed dry.
• 1 (15 oz) container Whole Milk Ricotta Cheese – This is the heart of the filling, providing a creamy, rich texture. Whole milk ricotta offers the best flavor and consistency.
• 1 Large Egg (lightly beaten) – Acts as a binder, helping the filling hold its shape once baked.
• ½ cup Grated Parmesan Cheese (plus extra for topping) – Adds a salty, nutty complexity to the filling and creates a delicious crust when sprinkled on top.
• ¼ cup Plain Breadcrumbs (optional, Panko preferred) – Helps bind the filling and adds a slight texture. Panko breadcrumbs offer a lighter, crispier result. You can omit for a gluten-free version or use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
• 1 tsp Dried Italian Seasoning (or mix of dried oregano and basil) – Infuses the filling with classic Mediterranean herbs. Fresh herbs like chopped basil or parsley can also be used (use about 1 tbsp fresh for 1 tsp dried).
• ½ tsp Salt (or to taste) – Enhances all the other flavors. Adjust based on the saltiness of your Parmesan.
• ¼ tsp Black Pepper (freshly ground preferred) – Adds a touch of warmth and spice.
• Optional: ½ cup Marinara Sauce – For lining the bottom of the baking dish, adding moisture and extra flavor during baking.

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with your fillings based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap out the cheese: Try using cottage cheese instead of ricotta for a lighter option.
• Add protein: Mix in cooked quinoa or shredded chicken for an extra boost of nutrition.
• Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños if you like things hot!
• Go veggie: Incorporate other vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini into your filling for added texture.

How to Make Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your stuffed peppers bake evenly and develop that lovely golden crust we all crave.

Step 2: Prepare the Peppers

While your oven heats up, slice the tops off your bell peppers and remove the seeds. This gives them room to fill with our delicious mixture! Place them upright in a baking dish lined with marinara sauce if you’re using it—this adds moisture during baking.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

In a skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent—about five minutes. Then stir in minced garlic until fragrant; this step really brings out those sweet flavors!

Step 4: Mix the Filling

In a large bowl, combine thawed spinach (remember to squeeze out excess water!), ricotta cheese, beaten egg, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs if using, dried Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is combined; this creamy filling is what makes these Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Peppers so special!

Step 5: Stuff Your Peppers

Carefully spoon generous amounts of filling into each pepper until they’re packed full but not overflowing. Sprinkle extra Parmesan on top if desired; it adds an irresistible crust as they bake!

Step 6: Bake Them Up

Cover your baking dish with foil to keep moisture in during cooking. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes. Remove the foil for an additional ten minutes until they’re bubbly and golden brown on top—yum!

Step 7: Serve & Enjoy

Once out of the oven, let them cool slightly before serving. These Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Peppers make an impressive presentation on any table! Enjoy every bite knowing you’ve created something truly delicious from scratch!

Pro Tips for Making Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

Creating the perfect Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Peppers can be a rewarding experience, and these tips will help you achieve delicious results every time!

• Choose the right peppers: Opt for firm, brightly colored peppers that can stand upright. This not only enhances the presentation but also ensures they hold the filling well without toppling over.

• Squeeze out excess moisture: After thawing your spinach, make sure to squeeze it dry. This prevents the filling from becoming watery and ensures each bite is packed with flavor.

• Customize your filling: Feel free to add cooked quinoa or rice for extra texture and nutrition. This not only makes the dish heartier but also adds a unique twist that complements the ricotta beautifully.

• Experiment with cheeses: While Parmesan is fantastic, you can mix in other cheeses like mozzarella or feta for different flavor profiles. This allows you to tailor the dish to your taste preferences or what you have on hand.

• Bake until golden: Keep an eye on your stuffed peppers as they bake; look for a golden crust on top to know they’re perfectly done. This adds an appealing texture and enhances the overall flavor.

How to Serve Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

Serving up your Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Peppers can be just as fun as preparing them! Here are some ideas to make this delightful dish even more special.

Garnishes

• Fresh basil leaves: A few sprigs of basil add a pop of color and a fresh aroma that complements the flavors of the peppers.
• Cracked black pepper: A light sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper not only looks appealing but also enhances the dish’s warmth and depth.

Side Dishes

• Simple Green Salad: A refreshing salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the stuffed peppers perfectly.
• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is always a crowd-pleaser and provides a satisfying crunch that pairs wonderfully with the creamy filling.
• Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal roasted vegetables brings color and additional nutrients to your meal while complementing the Mediterranean flavors.
• Quinoa Pilaf: A fluffy quinoa pilaf with herbs adds a nutty flavor and serves as a hearty side, ensuring your meal is both nutritious and filling.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Peppers are sure to impress family and friends alike! Enjoy every delicious bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Peppers recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the filling ahead of time or even stuff the peppers in advance for a quick weeknight dinner.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow any leftovers to cool completely before storing.
• Place the stuffed peppers in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• If you want to freeze, prepare the stuffed peppers but do not bake them.
• Wrap each pepper tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat, thaw the peppers in the refrigerator overnight.
• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Bake the stuffed peppers for about 25-30 minutes, or until heated through. If baked from frozen, increase the time to about 45-50 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about preparing Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Peppers.

Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen for Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Peppers?

Yes! You can use about 1 pound of fresh spinach. Simply wilt it in a pan and squeeze out excess moisture before using it in the filling.

How long do Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Peppers last in the fridge?

Stuffed peppers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure they are kept in an airtight container!

Can I make Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Peppers gluten-free?

Absolutely! You can omit the breadcrumbs altogether or use gluten-free breadcrumbs to keep this dish suitable for a gluten-free diet.

What should I serve with Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Peppers?

These stuffed peppers pair wonderfully with a simple side salad or some crusty bread. They also make a great standalone meal!

Can I customize the filling of my Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Peppers?

Definitely! Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini, or even mix in some cooked quinoa or rice for extra heartiness!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these delicious Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Peppers! They are not only satisfying but also a beautiful way to enjoy nutritious ingredients. Whether you’re prepping for a busy week or planning a cozy dinner, these stuffed peppers will surely delight your taste buds. Enjoy every bite, and don’t forget to share your experience – I’d love to hear how they turned out!