Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

If you’re looking for a comforting meal that’s simple to prepare and bursting with flavor, then these Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Peppers are just the thing! This recipe has become one of my all-time favorites because it combines vibrant bell peppers with a creamy filling that’s both satisfying and nutritious. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy family gathering, these stuffed peppers are always a hit. Trust me; everyone will be coming back for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
• Family-Friendly: These stuffed peppers are not only tasty but also packed with nutrients, making them perfect for kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the filling ahead of time and stuff the peppers when you’re ready to bake them, saving you time during busy evenings.
• Flavorful and Satisfying: The combination of spinach, ricotta, and spices creates an irresistible filling that everyone will love.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite ingredients or swap out the cheeses to suit your taste!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients for this delightful dish. You’ll find everything you need right in your 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

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it is! You can easily adapt it to fit what you have on hand or to satisfy different taste preferences.

• Swap in Different Vegetables: Try adding zucchini or mushrooms to your filling for added texture and flavor!
• Change Up the Cheese: If you prefer something sharper, substitute feta cheese for part of the ricotta for an exciting twist!
• Add Protein: Mix in some cooked quinoa or shredded chicken if you’d like to add some protein to your meal.
• Experiment with Spices: Don’t hesitate to play around with different herbs or spices—cumin or red pepper flakes could add an exciting kick!

How to Make Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

Step 1: Prepare Your Peppers

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that’s heating up, slice each bell pepper in half lengthwise and remove any seeds. It’s important that they stand upright when placed in your baking dish so they hold all that delicious filling!

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In a skillet over medium heat, warm up that tablespoon of olive oil. Add in your finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent—this usually takes about five minutes. Adding garlic now will elevate those flavors even further; cook until fragrant! This step builds an amazing base for our stuffing.

Step 3: Mix Your Filling

In a large bowl, combine your sautéed onion and garlic mixture with thawed spinach, ricotta cheese, beaten egg, parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs (if using), Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly so every bite has all those wonderful flavors.

Step 4: Fill Your Peppers

Now comes the fun part! Spoon generous amounts of that creamy spinach mixture into each halved pepper until they’re brimming full. If you like saucy peppers, drizzle some marinara sauce into your baking dish before placing them inside.

Step 5: Bake

Cover your baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in your preheated oven for about 25 minutes. After that time has passed, remove the foil; sprinkle extra parmesan on top if desired! Return them to bake uncovered for another ten minutes until golden brown.

And there you have it—delicious Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Peppers that are sure to impress everyone at your table! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

Making these stuffed peppers can be a delightful experience, especially when you keep a few helpful tips in mind!

• Choose the right peppers – Opt for firm, colorful bell peppers that will stand up nicely when halved. This not only enhances presentation but ensures a sturdy vessel for your filling.

• Squeeze the spinach – After thawing frozen spinach, make sure to squeeze out as much moisture as possible. This step is crucial because excess water can lead to soggy stuffed peppers.

• Experiment with cheese – While ricotta is the base, feel free to mix in other cheeses like mozzarella or feta for added flavor and creaminess. This can personalize the dish to your taste!

• Don’t skip the egg – The beaten egg acts as a binder, keeping your filling cohesive during baking. Without it, your delicious stuffing may crumble apart.

• Make ahead – If you’re pressed for time, you can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just assemble and bake when you’re ready for a cozy meal!

How to Serve Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

Serving these stuffed peppers can be just as fun as making them! With their vibrant colors and comforting flavors, they deserve a lovely presentation.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs – A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley on top adds freshness and liveliness to your dish.
• Drizzle of olive oil – A light drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil just before serving elevates the flavor and gives a beautiful sheen.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread – Crispy garlic bread complements the stuffed peppers perfectly, providing a crunchy contrast and soaking up any extra sauce.
• Simple Green Salad – A refreshing salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the filling.
• Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted veggies add depth to the meal while keeping things healthy. Think zucchini, carrots, or asparagus tossed with olive oil and herbs.
• Quinoa or Brown Rice – A side of quinoa or brown rice offers a wholesome grain option that pairs well with the hearty stuffing without overpowering it.

By combining these suggestions with your Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Peppers, you’ll create a satisfying meal that’s 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 make these delightful peppers in advance, making busy weeknight dinners a breeze. Here’s how to store them properly.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the stuffed peppers to cool completely before storing.
• Place leftovers in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, allow the cooked peppers to cool completely.
• Wrap each pepper tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place the wrapped peppers in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen peppers in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the peppers in a baking dish and cover with foil.
• Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through. For a crispy topping, remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Peppers.

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

Absolutely! If you’re using fresh spinach, you’ll need about 1 pound. Sauté it until wilted, then squeeze out excess moisture before mixing it into your filling.

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

Stored properly in an airtight container, these stuffed peppers will last about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Can I make Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Peppers ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare these stuffed peppers ahead of time and store them in the fridge or freezer until you’re ready to bake them.

Are Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Peppers suitable for vegetarians?

Yes! This recipe is vegetarian-friendly as it features ricotta cheese and spinach without any meat ingredients.

What sides go well with Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Peppers?

These stuffed peppers pair wonderfully with a fresh garden salad or some garlic bread on the side for a complete meal!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Peppers as much as I do! They’re not only delicious but also versatile and perfect for any day of the week. Whether you’re preparing them for a family dinner or meal prepping for yourself, these stuffed peppers are sure to bring comfort and joy to your table. Happy cooking!