Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

Introduction

Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Peppers are a delicious and wholesome meal that combines tender bell peppers with a creamy, flavorful filling. This simple recipe is perfect for a nutritious weeknight dinner or an impressive dish to serve guests.

Ingredients

• 4 large bell peppers
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese (such as mozzarella or Parmesan)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes.
2. Step 2: In a bowl, combine the ricotta, chopped spinach, and shredded cheese until well mixed.
3. Step 3: Stuff each bell pepper with the ricotta and spinach mixture, filling them generously but not overflowing.
4. Step 4: Place the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the filling is heated through.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, add minced garlic or herbs like basil or oregano to the ricotta mixture.
• You can use frozen spinach if fresh is unavailable—just be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before mixing.
• Try topping the peppers with breadcrumbs before baking for a crispy finish.

Storage

Store leftover stuffed peppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until heated through. Avoid microwaving to maintain texture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute ricotta with cottage cheese or cream cheese, and use any mild melting cheese like mozzarella or cheddar for the topping.

Do I need to pre-cook the spinach before mixing it with ricotta?

No, fresh chopped spinach can be mixed directly with the ricotta as it will soften during baking. If using frozen spinach, make sure it is fully thawed and drained to avoid excess moisture.

Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 104 reviews

Delicious and wholesome Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Peppers featuring tender bell peppers filled with a creamy mixture of ricotta cheese, fresh spinach, and melted cheese, baked to perfection for a comforting and nutritious meal.

• Author: Ria
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Vegetables

• 4 large bell peppers, tops cut off and seeds removed
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped

Dairy

• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Other

• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for sautéing spinach)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Peppers: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Carefully cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Set aside.
2. Prepare the Filling: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat (optional). Add chopped spinach and sauté until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, sautéed spinach, half of the shredded cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine.
3. Stuff the Peppers: Spoon the ricotta and spinach mixture evenly into each hollow bell pepper until filled.
4. Bake: Arrange the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese on top of each stuffed pepper. Place in the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is golden and bubbly.
5. Serve: Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving. These stuffed peppers make an excellent main dish or side, served warm.

Notes

• You can add herbs like basil or oregano to the filling for extra flavor.
• For a richer filling, add an egg to bind the mixture before stuffing.
• To make it vegan, substitute ricotta with a plant-based cheese alternative.
• Serve with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Keywords: Spinach stuffed peppers, ricotta stuffed peppers, baked stuffed peppers, vegetarian stuffed peppers, healthy stuffed peppers