Spinach Artichoke Stuffed Peppers 🌶️🥗

These Spinach Artichoke Stuffed Peppers are a delightful twist on a classic dish. Bursting with flavor and creaminess, they're perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or even a light main course. Imagine the savory blend of spinach and artichokes enveloped in tender bell peppers, topped with melted cheese that stretches with each bite. You’ll want to make this recipe for every gathering! 🎉

Ingredients

For the filling

• 2 large bell peppers (any color)
• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 cup canned artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
• 1 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (plus more for topping)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: red pepper flakes for a bit of heat

Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

• Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. Place them upright in a baking dish.

🌶️ For an extra colorful presentation, try using a mix of red, yellow, and green bell peppers!

• In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped spinach, artichoke hearts, cream cheese, sour cream, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

🧄 Don’t be shy with the garlic! It adds a fantastic depth of flavor to the filling.

• Spoon the filling generously into each bell pepper, packing it in tightly.

• Top each stuffed pepper with additional mozzarella cheese for that melty finish.

• Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, uncover and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

• Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.

🍽️ These stuffed peppers are great on their own, but you can serve them with a simple side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal!

Variations

• Gluten-free: This dish is naturally gluten-free! Just ensure your sour cream and cheese are gluten-free certified.
• Vegan: Substitute the cream cheese and sour cream with vegan alternatives, and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a cheesy flavor without the dairy. You might also want to add some cooked quinoa for extra texture!
• Add protein: Incorporate cooked chicken, turkey, or even crab meat into the filling for a heartier dish.
• Spicy twist: Mix in some jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for an extra kick!

With a bit of creativity, these Spinach Artichoke Stuffed Peppers can adapt to any dietary preference while still being packed with flavor. Enjoy the delicious journey! 🌱🌟