Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

If you’re looking for a comforting and nutritious dish to brighten up your dinner table, these Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Peppers are just the ticket! This recipe is not only a feast for the eyes with its vibrant colors but also a crowd-pleaser that works perfectly for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. The combination of creamy ricotta and savory spinach stuffed inside sweet bell peppers makes for a wholesome meal that everyone will love.

I adore this recipe because it’s simple yet feels like a special occasion dish. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some veggies while satisfying those cheesy cravings!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps and minimal fuss, you can have this delicious meal ready in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike enjoy the colorful presentation and delightful flavors.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare the filling ahead of time, and simply stuff the peppers when you’re ready to bake!
• Versatile Flavor: Customize the filling with your favorite herbs or spices to suit your family’s taste.
• Wholesome Ingredients: Packed with nutrition, these stuffed peppers are as good for you as they are tasty.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to bring these Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Peppers to life. You likely have most of them on hand!

• 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 my favorite things about these stuffed peppers is how flexible they are! Feel free to get creative with what you have on hand.

• Swap in Different Greens: If spinach isn’t your thing, try Swiss chard or kale instead!
• Add Protein: Mix in cooked quinoa or beans for an added protein punch that keeps it hearty.
• Go Vegan: Substitute ricotta with tofu blended with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option that still packs flavor.
• Spice It Up: Add some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to give it an extra kick!

How to Make Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

Step 1: Prepare Your Peppers

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it warms up, carefully slice each bell pepper in half from top to bottom. Remove any seeds and membranes so they can hold all that delicious filling later! Don’t worry if they wobble; just give them a little trim at their base so they stand upright.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and let it warm up. Add finely chopped onion along with minced garlic. Sauté until the onions turn translucent—this brings out their natural sweetness! It creates an aromatic base that adds depth to our filling.

Step 3: Mix Your Filling

In a large bowl, combine thawed spinach (make sure it’s well-drained!), ricotta cheese, beaten egg, grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs if using them, dried Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until well mixed—this will create that creamy stuffing we all love!

Step 4: Stuff Those Peppers

Spoon generous amounts of your delicious filling into each pepper half. Pack it in there; we want these peppers full! If you’re using marinara sauce at this point, spread some at the bottom of your baking dish before arranging your stuffed peppers snugly.

Step 5: Bake!

Cover your baking dish with foil (to keep everything moist), then pop it into your preheated oven for about 25 minutes. After that time has passed, remove the foil and sprinkle any extra Parmesan cheese on top before returning them to bake uncovered for another 10 minutes until golden brown.

And there you have it! A delightful plate of Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Peppers ready to be savored by family or friends! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

Making perfect Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Peppers is all about the details, so here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out delicious every time!

• Choose the Right Peppers: Pick firm, colorful bell peppers that can stand upright. This not only makes for a beautiful presentation but also ensures they hold up well during baking.

• Squeeze Out the Excess Water: After thawing, make sure to squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the spinach. This prevents your filling from becoming soggy and keeps every bite delectable.

• Mix Well: When combining your filling ingredients, ensure everything is thoroughly mixed. A well-blended filling means that every pepper gets an equal taste of flavor, making each bite just as enjoyable as the last.

• Bake with Marinara: If you choose to use marinara sauce at the bottom of your baking dish, it not only adds flavor but also helps keep the peppers moist while they cook.

• Let Them Rest: After baking, allow the peppers to sit for a few minutes before serving. This resting period helps the flavors meld together beautifully and makes them easier to handle when plating.

How to Serve Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

These Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Peppers are not just tasty; they also look gorgeous on a plate! Here are some ideas on how to present them beautifully while enhancing their flavors further.

Garnishes

• Fresh Basil: A sprinkle of fresh basil leaves adds a vibrant pop of color and a delightful aroma that complements the dish.
• Balsamic Glaze: Drizzling a bit of balsamic glaze over your stuffed peppers can introduce a sweet tanginess that contrasts nicely with the creamy filling.
• Chili Flakes: For those who like a little heat, a dash of chili flakes can elevate the dish and add an exciting kick.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad tossed with cucumber, tomatoes, and lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the stuffed peppers.
• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread serves as a fantastic accompaniment for scooping up any leftover filling or sauce on your plate.
• Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted seasonal vegetables provides color and balances out the meal with healthy options.
• Mixed Green Salad: A simple mixed green salad dressed lightly in olive oil and vinegar adds crunch and freshness that pairs perfectly with these hearty stuffed peppers.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Peppers will be a hit whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a cozy dinner at home!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Peppers are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare them in advance and enjoy them throughout the week, making your life just a little bit easier.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover stuffed peppers in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
• To keep the peppers from drying out, place a damp paper towel in the container.

Freezing

• Allow the stuffed peppers to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap each pepper tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. For best results, store them in a freezer-safe container or bag.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen peppers overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the peppers in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 25-30 minutes or until heated through.
• Alternatively, reheat in the microwave on medium power for about 5-7 minutes, checking periodically.

FAQs

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

Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?

Yes, you can use fresh spinach! Approximately 1 pound of fresh spinach will yield about the same amount as a 10 oz package of frozen spinach once wilted and squeezed dry.

Are Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Peppers healthy?

Absolutely! These stuffed peppers are packed with nutrients from the spinach and provide protein from the ricotta cheese and egg. They make for a wholesome meal option!

How do I prevent my filling from being too watery?

To prevent soggy filling, be sure to squeeze out as much water as possible from your thawed spinach. Additionally, using breadcrumbs can help absorb excess moisture.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Simply substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or omit them entirely if preferred.

What can I serve with Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Peppers?

These stuffed peppers pair beautifully with a simple side salad or some crusty bread to soak up any delicious marinara sauce!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delightful Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Peppers as much as I do! They’re not only delicious but also versatile and easy to prepare ahead of time. Whether you’re feeding your family or hosting friends, this recipe is sure to impress. Happy cooking!