Name: Cream Cheese Stuffed Piquante Peppers
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: International
Ingredients: 20 piquante peppers (Peppadew®), drained; 8 ounces (225 grams) cream cheese, softened; 1 teaspoon fresh parsley, finely chopped; 1 teaspoon fresh chives, finely chopped; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Why You’ll Love Cream Cheese Stuffed Piquante Peppers Recipe

These cream cheese stuffed piquante peppers are irresistibly delicious, incredibly easy to prepare, and require no cooking. The combination of tangy-sweet peppers and rich, herb-infused cream cheese creates a mouthwatering contrast that will leave guests reaching for seconds. Plus, they’re vegetarian-friendly and can be made ahead for effortless entertaining.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

20 piquante peppers (Peppadew®), drained
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 teaspoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
1 teaspoon fresh chives, finely chopped
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Directions

Prepare the peppers: Drain the piquante peppers thoroughly, making sure the interiors are free of any excess liquid.
Make the filling: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, chopped parsley, chives, and garlic powder. Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, then mix until smooth and well combined.
Stuff the peppers: Using a small spoon or piping bag, fill each piquante pepper with the herbed cream cheese mixture. Ensure each one is generously filled but not overflowing.
Chill and serve: Arrange the stuffed peppers on a serving platter and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. Serve chilled.

Servings and timing

Servings: 20 stuffed peppers
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Calories: 70 kcal per serving

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the cream cheese mixture for a spicy twist.
Cheese Blend: Mix in some crumbled feta or goat cheese for a tangier flavor.
Crunchy Topping: Sprinkle with crushed nuts or toasted breadcrumbs just before serving.
Sweet Touch: Drizzle with a bit of honey or balsamic glaze for a sweet-savory combo.
Vegan Version: Use plant-based cream cheese and herbs for a dairy-free alternative.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover stuffed piquante peppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. These are best served cold, so there is no need to reheat. For the freshest taste, consume within 24 hours of preparation.

FAQs

How far in advance can I make these stuffed peppers?

You can prepare them up to 24 hours in advance. Just cover tightly and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Can I use jarred piquante peppers?

Yes, jarred piquante peppers like Peppadew® work perfectly and are the most commonly used for this recipe.

What type of cream cheese should I use?

Full-fat cream cheese offers the richest flavor, but you can also use light cream cheese for a lower-calorie option.

Can I freeze stuffed piquante peppers?

Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the cream cheese and peppers can become watery and less appealing upon thawing.

What can I use instead of piquante peppers?

Mini bell peppers or cherry peppers can be a good alternative if you can’t find piquante peppers.

Can I add meat to the filling?

Yes, crumbled bacon or finely chopped prosciutto can be added for a savory, meaty flavor.

Are these peppers very spicy?

Piquante peppers are known for their sweet and mild heat, so they are not overly spicy and are generally well-tolerated.

How do I make the filling smoother?

Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing. You can also use a hand mixer for a smoother texture.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Yes, but use them sparingly—about one-third the amount—since dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor.

What should I serve with these?

They pair well with a charcuterie board, crisp crackers, or a glass of white wine or sparkling beverage.

Conclusion

Cream cheese stuffed piquante peppers are an elegant, no-cook appetizer that delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Perfect for parties, holidays, or everyday snacking, they’re a versatile and crowd-pleasing addition to your recipe collection. With endless variations and easy prep, these stuffed peppers are sure to become a go-to favorite.