Beef Bacon and Goat Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers

Introduction

Beef Bacon and Goat Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers are the kind of appetizer that quickly becomes the star of any gathering. These colorful mini peppers are stuffed with a mouthwatering filling of crispy beef bacon, tangy goat cheese, and a perfect blend of herbs and spices. The sweetness of the peppers perfectly balances the rich and savory flavors inside, creating a bite that’s both satisfying and flavorful. Whether served as a starter, a side dish, or even as a healthy snack, these stuffed mini peppers are bound to leave everyone asking for the recipe.

The first time I made Beef Bacon and Goat Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers, I was amazed by how easy they were to prepare, yet how impressive they looked once they were finished. As I carefully stuffed each pepper with the creamy goat cheese and crispy beef bacon mixture, I knew they would be a hit. When they came out of the oven, the peppers had softened just enough to provide the perfect texture, and the aroma of bacon and herbs filled my kitchen, making it impossible to wait to take that first bite.

What I love most about these stuffed mini peppers is their versatility. They’re ideal for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a casual family meal. The combination of beef bacon and goat cheese is always a crowd-pleaser, and the mini peppers make them easy to serve and eat in a few quick bites. Plus, you can easily customize the filling to your taste, adding more herbs, spices, or even swapping out the beef bacon for another protein. These stuffed mini peppers are a guaranteed hit that will leave everyone asking for more.

Perfect for:

• Party appetizers
• Game day snacks
• Holiday gatherings
• Casual weeknight dinners
• Cheese lovers

Why You’ll Love This Beef Bacon and Goat Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers

Here’s why Beef Bacon and Goat Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers will become a staple in your recipe collection:

• Savory and Rich Flavor: The combination of crispy beef bacon and tangy goat cheese creates an irresistible flavor that’s both savory and creamy.
• Perfect Bite-Sized Portions: These mini peppers are easy to handle and make for the perfect finger food, ideal for parties and gatherings.
• Healthy and Flavorful: Packed with fresh vegetables, lean beef bacon, and the richness of goat cheese, this dish offers a satisfying balance of flavors without being overly indulgent.
• Quick and Easy to Make: With a short prep time and minimal cooking required, these stuffed mini peppers are perfect for when you need an appetizer or snack in a pinch.
• Versatile: You can customize the filling with different herbs, spices, or cheeses to suit your taste preferences.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 8 servings (2 peppers per person)
• Calories per serving: Approximately 150-180 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 10g, Carbs: 5g, Fat: 12g

Ingredients

To make Beef Bacon and Goat Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers, gather the following ingredients:

• 12 mini bell peppers (or 6 large bell peppers)
• 4 oz beef bacon, diced
• 4 oz goat cheese, softened
• 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh chives, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Olive oil for drizzling (optional)
• 1 tablespoon Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)

Ingredient Highlights

• Beef Bacon: A leaner alternative to traditional pork bacon, beef bacon adds a smoky and savory flavor to the dish, complementing the creaminess of the goat cheese.
• Goat Cheese: Its tangy and creamy flavor pairs perfectly with the savory beef bacon and adds a rich texture to the filling.
• Mini Bell Peppers: These sweet peppers offer a natural crunch and a mild flavor that provides the perfect vessel for the creamy filling.
• Herbs and Spices: Fresh parsley, chives, and garlic powder infuse the filling with a burst of freshness and savory flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Beef Bacon and Goat Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers:

Prepare the Peppers:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the Peppers: Cut the tops off the mini bell peppers and carefully remove the seeds and membranes. Set the peppers aside.
3. Optional Roasting: For a slightly roasted flavor, you can drizzle the peppers with olive oil and roast them for 10 minutes before stuffing them.

Prepare the Filling:

4. Cook the Beef Bacon: In a medium skillet over medium heat, cook the diced beef bacon until it becomes crispy. Remove from the skillet and set aside to drain on paper towels.
5. Mix the Cheese Filling: In a bowl, combine the goat cheese, cream cheese, chopped parsley, chives, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and well combined.
6. Add Beef Bacon: Fold the cooked beef bacon into the cheese mixture until evenly distributed.

Stuff the Peppers:

7. Stuff the Mini Peppers: Using a spoon, carefully stuff each mini bell pepper with the cheese and bacon mixture. Make sure the filling is packed tightly inside each pepper.
8. Optional Topping: Sprinkle a little Parmesan cheese on top of each stuffed pepper for extra flavor and a golden finish.

Bake the Peppers:

9. Bake: Arrange the stuffed peppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with a little olive oil, if desired. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the filling is slightly golden and bubbly.
10. Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.

How to Serve Beef Bacon and Goat Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers

Beef Bacon and Goat Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers are a versatile dish that can be served in various ways:

• As an Appetizer: These stuffed mini peppers make a great starter for dinner parties, casual gatherings, or any celebration.
• With a Side Salad: Serve with a light salad, such as a mixed greens salad or arugula, for a fresh and balanced meal.
• On a Platter: Arrange the stuffed peppers on a large platter with other bite-sized snacks like olives, crackers, or cheese for a delicious appetizer spread.
• As a Side Dish: Pair with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or even a hearty soup to make a complete meal.
• With Dips: Serve with a side of dipping sauce, such as a tangy ranch dressing, to complement the flavors of the stuffed peppers.

Additional Tips for Beef Bacon and Goat Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers

Here are some tips to ensure your Beef Bacon and Goat Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers turn out perfectly every time:

• Avoid Overstuffing the Peppers: While it’s tempting to pack the filling in tightly, be sure not to overstuff the peppers, as it could cause the filling to spill out during baking.
• Customize the Cheese: Feel free to use a blend of cheeses, such as cream cheese and cheddar, if you prefer a milder flavor.
• Pre-Cook the Peppers: If you prefer softer peppers, roast or grill the mini bell peppers before stuffing them to enhance their flavor and texture.
• Use a Toothpick: If you want the filling to stay in place while baking, you can secure the tops of the peppers with toothpicks before baking.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the stuffed peppers up to 24 hours in advance. Store them in the fridge and bake when ready to serve.

Recipe Variations for Beef Bacon and Goat Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers

Here are 10 variations you can try for Beef Bacon and Goat Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers:

• Turkey Bacon and Goat Cheese: Swap the beef bacon for turkey bacon for a leaner option without sacrificing flavor.
• Spicy Stuffed Peppers: Add chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the cheese mixture for a spicy kick.
• Cheddar Cheese Stuffing: Replace goat cheese with sharp cheddar cheese for a more classic cheesy flavor.
• Vegetarian Option: Skip the bacon and add sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables to the cheese filling.
• Pine Nut and Basil Stuffed Peppers: Add toasted pine nuts and fresh basil to the filling for an Italian-inspired twist.
• Feta and Olive Stuffing: Substitute goat cheese with feta cheese and add chopped Kalamata olives for a Mediterranean version.
• Sweet and Savory: Add a drizzle of honey or balsamic glaze over the stuffed peppers before serving for a sweet contrast.
• Mexican Flavored Stuffing: Use crumbled queso fresco, cilantro, and black beans in the filling for a Mexican-inspired version.
• Cream Cheese and Bacon Stuffing: Swap goat cheese with cream cheese for a creamier texture and use crumbled regular bacon.
• Cheese and Sausage Stuffed Peppers: Replace beef bacon with cooked sausage for a heartier stuffing option.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: You can freeze the stuffed mini peppers before baking. Place the stuffed peppers on a baking sheet in a single layer, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Bake directly from frozen, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

Special Equipment for Beef Bacon and Goat Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers

Here are some special equipment items to help you make Beef Bacon and Goat Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers:

• Baking Sheet: A large baking sheet lined with parchment paper is ideal for baking the stuffed peppers evenly.
• Skillet: Use a skillet to cook the beef bacon until crispy.
• Spoon: A spoon is handy for stuffing the mini peppers with the cheese and bacon mixture.
• Parchment Paper: Helps prevent the peppers from sticking to the baking sheet while also making cleanup easier.
• Toothpicks: Use toothpicks to secure the peppers if necessary, especially when using larger peppers.

FAQ Section for Beef Bacon and Goat Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers

1. Can I use regular bell peppers instead of mini ones?
   Yes, you can use regular bell peppers, but be sure to adjust the baking time as they may require a bit longer to soften.
2. Can I make these ahead of time?
   Absolutely! Prepare the stuffed peppers in advance and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.
3. Can I use a different type of cheese?
   Yes, you can use other cheeses like cream cheese, ricotta, or feta as a substitute for goat cheese.
4. Can I make these vegetarian?
   Yes, you can omit the beef bacon and add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or even sun-dried tomatoes for a delicious vegetarian version.
5. How do I prevent the filling from spilling out?
   Be sure not to overstuff the peppers, and consider securing the tops with toothpicks to hold the filling in place during baking.

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Conclusion

Beef Bacon and Goat Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers are a delightful and flavorful dish that will surely become a hit at any gathering. The savory combination of beef bacon and creamy goat cheese, mixed with fresh herbs, creates a rich filling that complements the sweetness of the mini bell peppers perfectly. Whether you’re serving them as appetizers, side dishes, or snacks, these stuffed peppers are sure to impress your guests with their delicious taste and beautiful presentation.

This recipe is not only simple to make but also offers a lot of versatility. You can adjust the filling by adding your favorite herbs, spices, or even swapping out the beef bacon for turkey bacon or another type of meat. These stuffed mini peppers are perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight meals to festive holiday parties.

I’d love to see how your Beef Bacon and Goat Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers turn out! Don’t forget to snap a photo and tag me on Instagram—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations! Enjoy and happy cooking!