Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

If you’re looking for a dish that’s not only delicious but also a feast for the eyes, then these Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Peppers are just the ticket! Colorful bell peppers filled with a creamy ricotta and spinach mixture make for an inviting meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Plus, they’re easy to prepare and always impress, turning even simple dinners into special occasions.

I love how this recipe combines wholesome ingredients to create something truly comforting. The vibrant colors of the peppers coupled with the rich filling make it a dish that you’ll want to share with your loved ones again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: In under an hour, you can have a hearty meal ready to enjoy.
• Family-Friendly: These stuffed peppers are a hit with both kids and adults alike, making mealtime enjoyable for everyone.
• Make-Ahead Option: Prepare them in advance and simply bake when you’re ready to eat!
• Packed with Flavor: The blend of ricotta, spinach, and Italian herbs creates a deliciously creamy filling that’s bursting with taste.
• Customizable: You can easily adapt the recipe to suit your preferences or dietary needs.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients for Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Peppers is a breeze! With simple and wholesome items, you’ll find everything you need right at your local grocery store. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 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

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to mix things up according to your tastes or what you have on hand.

• Swap in Different Greens: Use kale or Swiss chard instead of spinach for an exciting twist on flavor.
• Add Protein: Mix in some cooked quinoa or shredded chicken if you want to boost the protein content.
• Change Up Your Cheeses: Try using feta cheese instead of ricotta for a tangy kick!
• Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes to give your stuffing some heat.

How to Make Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

Step 1: Prepare the Peppers

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it warms up, carefully slice each bell pepper in half lengthwise and remove the seeds. This will create perfect little bowls ready to be filled!

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, toss in your chopped onion. Sauté until it’s soft and translucent—about 5 minutes—and then stir in minced garlic. Cooking these together brings out their natural sweetness which elevates our dish beautifully!

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, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix until everything is well blended; this is where all those wonderful flavors come together.

Step 4: Fill Your Peppers

Carefully spoon the filling into each bell pepper half until they’re generously packed! If you’re using marinara sauce at this point, spread some at the bottom of your baking dish first—it adds moisture during baking.

Step 5: Bake

Place your filled peppers in the baking dish upright and cover it with foil. Bake in your preheated oven for about 25 minutes. After that time has passed, remove the foil and sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top before returning them to bake uncovered for another 10 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!

Once they’re out of the oven and slightly cooled down, serve these Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Peppers warm! They make such an impressive presentation—perfectly colorful and absolutely mouthwatering! Enjoy every bite with family or friends; I promise they’ll be asking for seconds!

Pro Tips for Making Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

Making Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Peppers is a joy, and with these handy tips, you’ll ensure they turn out delightful every time!

• Squeeze the spinach well: Removing as much moisture as possible from the spinach prevents a soggy filling and ensures each bite is flavorful and satisfying.
• Choose ripe peppers: Opt for firm, colorful bell peppers. They not only taste better but also add vibrant color to your dish, making it visually appealing.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the spices to your liking. Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can give your dish a wonderful kick!
• Bake until bubbly: Keep an eye on your stuffed peppers while they bake; you want the cheese on top to be golden and bubbly for that perfect finish.
• Make ahead: You can prepare these stuffed peppers in advance, refrigerate them, and bake just before serving. This makes it an excellent option for meal prep or entertaining guests.

How to Serve Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

Serving these Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Peppers can turn a simple meal into something special! Here are some ideas to elevate your presentation.

Garnishes

• Fresh basil leaves: A few torn or whole leaves add a fresh burst of flavor and make for a lovely visual contrast against the colorful peppers.
• Zest of lemon: A sprinkle of lemon zest can brighten the dish, enhancing flavors and adding an aromatic touch.

Side Dishes

• Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad with a light vinaigrette helps balance the rich flavors of the stuffed peppers. Toss in some cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and avocado for extra texture.
• Quinoa Pilaf: This protein-packed side dish complements the peppers well while adding a nutty flavor. Mix in herbs like parsley or cilantro for freshness.
• Garlic Bread: Warm, crispy garlic bread serves as an excellent accompaniment for scooping up any leftover filling or sauce.
• Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal roasted vegetables brings additional nutrients and color to the table, making your meal more vibrant and satisfying.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re ready to impress friends and family with your delicious Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Peppers! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Peppers are not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can make them ahead of time and enjoy them for busy weeknights or quick lunches.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover stuffed peppers in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• If you have leftover filling, store it separately in a sealed container.

Freezing

• Allow the stuffed peppers to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap each pepper tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just be sure to label with the date!

Reheating

• To reheat from frozen, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Place the frozen peppers on a baking dish and cover with foil. Bake for about 30-40 minutes until heated through.
• For refrigerated leftovers, simply remove from the fridge and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes until warm.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Peppers.

Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?

Absolutely! If you prefer fresh spinach, use about 1 pound. Just wilt it down first, then squeeze out any excess moisture before mixing it into your filling.

How long do Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Peppers last in the fridge?

Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Peppers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure they’re in an airtight container to maintain their freshness.

Can I substitute ricotta cheese?

Yes! If you’re looking for alternatives, try using cottage cheese or a vegan ricotta if you want a dairy-free option. Each will give a different flavor and texture but will still work beautifully with this recipe.

Are Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Peppers healthy?

Yes, they are packed with nutrients! The combination of spinach, ricotta cheese, and fresh vegetables makes for a balanced and wholesome meal that is both satisfying and nourishing.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Peppers as much as I do! They’re not just easy to prepare but also bursting with flavor and nutrition. Whether you share them with family or savor them on your own, these stuffed peppers are sure to bring joy to your table. Happy cooking!