Tender banana peppers filled with a rich, cheesy cream cheese and herb mixture, then baked to perfection. These creamy stuffed peppers make a delightful appetizer or side dish for any occasion.

FULL RECIPE

Ingredients

• 6 medium banana peppers, tops removed and seeded
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 tsp onion powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (plus extra for garnish)
• Olive oil spray or drizzle

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, sour cream, garlic, onion powder, salt, pepper, and parsley. Mix until fully blended and smooth.
3. Spoon the cheese mixture into each banana pepper cavity until generously filled.
4. Arrange the stuffed peppers in the prepared baking dish and lightly spray or drizzle with olive oil.
5. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the filling is bubbly and golden on top.
6. Garnish with extra chopped parsley before serving.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: 215 kcal per serving
• Protein: 7g
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 3g
• Sodium: 300mg
• Cholesterol: 45mg

History and Origin of Stuffed Banana Peppers

Stuffed banana peppers are a delicious variation of a classic stuffed pepper dish, which has roots in many cultures around the world. The tradition of stuffing peppers with savory fillings can be traced back to Mediterranean and Eastern European cuisines, where peppers were filled with meats, cheeses, and grains. Banana peppers, known for their mild heat and tangy flavor, offer a perfect canvas for creamy and cheesy fillings, making this recipe a contemporary twist on an old favorite. This particular creamy stuffed banana pepper recipe combines familiar comfort food elements with a fresh, approachable pepper variety that has become popular in American cooking.

Why Choose Banana Peppers for Stuffing?

Banana peppers are uniquely suited for stuffing because of their shape, size, and mild heat. Their elongated, slightly curved form creates an ideal pocket to hold generous fillings. Unlike hotter peppers, banana peppers have a gentle tang and a sweet undertone that complements creamy and cheesy fillings without overwhelming the palate. Their thin walls cook evenly and soften nicely in the oven, offering a pleasant contrast to the rich, dense filling inside. Their bright yellow color also adds visual appeal, making the dish attractive and inviting.

The Cream Cheese Base: Texture and Flavor Impact

Using cream cheese as the base for the filling adds a luxurious, creamy texture that melts into the pepper walls as it bakes. It also serves as a mild, slightly tangy counterbalance to the sharper flavors of Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses. The smoothness of cream cheese helps bind the other ingredients together, ensuring the filling holds well inside the peppers while creating a luscious mouthfeel. This choice of dairy also keeps the dish accessible for many because it doesn’t overpower the natural flavor of the banana peppers.

Role of Herbs and Garlic in Enhancing Taste

Herbs and garlic play an essential role in elevating this dish beyond simple cheese-stuffed peppers. Fresh parsley adds a burst of color and a mild, grassy freshness, balancing the richness of the cheese. Garlic provides a savory depth and a slight pungency that complements the creamy filling. These aromatics ensure the flavor profile is layered and complex, preventing the dish from feeling one-dimensional or too heavy. This balance makes the recipe satisfying and memorable.

Baking: Why It’s the Best Cooking Method for This Recipe

Baking allows the cheese filling to melt slowly and develop a golden, slightly crispy top while gently softening the banana peppers. This method evenly cooks the peppers without drying them out, preserving their tenderness and slight bite. The oven’s dry heat also encourages the flavors to meld and intensify, producing a harmonious blend of creamy and tangy notes. Compared to frying or grilling, baking is a healthier option and makes the dish easier to prepare in larger batches.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Creamy stuffed banana peppers can be served as an appetizer, side dish, or even a light main course. They pair beautifully with fresh salads, roasted vegetables, or simple grain dishes like quinoa or rice pilaf. For a fuller meal, these peppers can accompany grilled meats or seafood, adding a creamy contrast to smoky flavors. Serving them with a crisp white wine or a light beer enhances the meal experience by cutting through the richness of the cheese filling.

Variations and Customizations

This recipe is highly adaptable, allowing cooks to tailor the filling to their tastes or dietary needs. Adding cooked sausage, ground beef, or turkey transforms the dish into a hearty main course. Vegetarians can incorporate chopped mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes to add texture and flavor complexity. Spices like smoked paprika, cayenne, or Italian seasoning can also be mixed into the filling for an extra kick. Cheese varieties such as feta, goat cheese, or cheddar offer new flavor profiles that keep the dish interesting.

Nutritional Benefits and Considerations

While creamy and cheesy, this dish contains nutritious elements from the banana peppers themselves, which provide vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber. The cheeses contribute protein and calcium but also bring saturated fat and sodium, so moderation is key. Using lower-fat cheese options or reducing the amount of sour cream can make the recipe lighter. Adding vegetables or whole grains as side dishes can balance the meal nutritionally and keep it wholesome.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Leftover creamy stuffed banana peppers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when kept in an airtight container. To reheat, cover them loosely with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, usually about 15 minutes. Avoid microwaving, which can cause the cheese to become rubbery or separate. Reheating in the oven helps maintain the texture of the peppers and the creaminess of the filling, preserving the dish’s original appeal.

Tips for Selecting the Best Banana Peppers

When buying banana peppers for stuffing, look for firm, bright yellow peppers with smooth skins and no soft spots or blemishes. Medium to large-sized peppers are easier to fill and hold their shape better during baking. Fresh peppers with stems intact will stay fresh longer. If fresh banana peppers aren’t available, pickled versions can sometimes be used but will impart a much tangier, vinegary flavor and a softer texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overfilling the peppers can cause the filling to spill out during baking, so be careful to fill them just enough for a neat presentation. Underbaking can result in peppers that are too firm or filling that isn’t heated through properly. Using cold cream cheese without softening it first can make the filling lumpy and difficult to mix. Lastly, skipping seasoning or herbs will make the dish bland, so don’t overlook the importance of balancing flavors.

Conclusion

Creamy stuffed banana peppers are a versatile, flavorful dish that brings together mild, tangy peppers with rich, cheesy fillings for a satisfying appetizer or side. Their ease of preparation and adaptability make them ideal for home cooks looking to impress without stress. Whether served at a family dinner, party, or casual get-together, these peppers deliver comfort and elegance in one bite. With simple tweaks, they can fit any dietary preference or occasion, ensuring this recipe will remain a favorite for years to come.