If you're seeking a dish that is a balance of heat, sweetness, and a hint of smokiness, look no further. Stuffed banana peppers offer an explosion of flavors that will delight your taste buds. This recipe, with its unique blend of cream cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, cilantro, and bacon, guarantees an unforgettable dining experience.
Most ingredients in this recipe are commonly available. However, banana peppers and sun-dried tomatoes might not be as accessible in some homes. Banana peppers are mildly hot peppers that you can find in the produce section of your supermarket. Sun-dried tomatoes are usually located in the canned foods aisle. They are ripe tomatoes that are dried out in the sun and have a sweet, tangy taste.
Ingredients for Stuffed Banana Peppers
Cream cheese: This is used as the base for the stuffing. It's creamy and has a mild tangy flavor that balances the heat of the banana peppers.
Sun-dried tomatoes: These provide a sweet and tangy flavor to the stuffing, adding an extra layer of complexity.
Garlic cloves: Garlic adds a strong, pungent flavor that enhances the overall taste of the dish.
Fresh cilantro: Cilantro has a fresh, citrusy flavor that complements the other ingredients.
Banana peppers: These peppers are mildly hot and slightly sweet. They serve as the vessel for our savory stuffing.
Bacon slices: Bacon adds a smoky, salty flavor that contrasts beautifully with the sweet and tangy stuffing.
One reader, Killie Downey says:
The stuffed banana peppers recipe was a hit at my last gathering! The cream cheese and sun-dried tomato filling added a burst of flavor, and the bacon wrapping was a delicious touch. It was a crowd-pleaser and definitely a recipe I'll be making again.
Key Techniques for Making Stuffed Banana Peppers
How to prepare the cream cheese stuffing: Combine the cream cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and cilantro in a large bowl and mix well to create a smooth and flavorful filling for the banana peppers.
How to stuff the banana peppers: Cut a slit lengthwise through each pepper without slicing it in half, then make another slit about ¼ inch from the stem across the previous slit to form a 't'. Use a paring knife to remove the seeds if desired, then fill each pepper with the cream cheese stuffing mixture using a small spoon.
How to wrap the stuffed peppers with bacon: Wrap each stuffed pepper with a slice of raw bacon, ensuring it is securely wrapped around the pepper. Use toothpicks to hold the bacon in place.
How to grill the stuffed peppers: Preheat an outdoor grill for medium heat and lightly oil the grate. Grill the stuffed peppers for 15 minutes, then turn and cook for an additional 10 minutes or until the bacon is crisp.
How to serve the stuffed banana peppers: Once cooked, remove the toothpicks and serve the stuffed banana peppers as a delicious appetizer or side dish.
How To Make Stuffed Banana Peppers
Serve up these cheesy stuffed banana peppers for your next big party! They’re bacon-wrapped treats that can be made in under an hour.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 8ozcream cheese,2 packages, softened
- ½cupsun-dried tomatoes,chopped
- 3garlic cloves,minced, or more to taste
- 1tbspfresh cilantro,chopped
- 10banana peppers
- 10bacon slices,peppered, or to taste
Instructions
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Soak the toothpicks in water for 15 minutes.
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Combine the cream cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and cilantro in a large bowl. Mix well.
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Preheat an outdoor grill for medium heat, then lightly oil the grate.
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Cut a slit lengthwise through each pepper without slicing it in half.
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Cut another slit about ¼ inch from the stem across the previous slit, forming a ‘T’.
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Remove seeds, as desired, using a paring knife.
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Fill each pepper with the cream cheese stuffing mixture using a small spoon.
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Wrap each pepper with a slice of raw bacon.
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Slide 1 toothpick through the center of each pepper to hold onto the bacon.
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Grill the stuffed peppers for 15 minutes.
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Turn, then cook for 10 minutes until the bacon is crisp.
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Serve, and enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 219.24kcal
- Fat: 19.57g
- Saturated Fat: 8.27g
- Trans Fat: 0.04g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 7.04g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.34g
- Carbohydrates: 5.56g
- Fiber: 1.92g
- Sugar: 2.94g
- Protein: 6.21g
- Cholesterol: 44.09mg
- Sodium: 287.61mg
- Calcium: 34.78mg
- Potassium: 303.14mg
- Iron: 0.68mg
- Vitamin A: 95.54µg
- Vitamin C: 39.41mg
Helpful Technique for Preparing Stuffed Banana Peppers
To ensure your banana peppers are evenly cooked and the bacon is crispy, consider par-cooking the bacon before wrapping it around the peppers. This can be done by placing the bacon in a cold pan, then slowly heating it over medium heat. Once the bacon has started to release some of its fat but is still pliable, remove it from the pan. This will give you a head start on cooking the bacon and will result in a perfectly cooked stuffed pepper with crispy bacon.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Recipe
Prep ahead: Prepare the cream cheese mixture and stuff the peppers a day in advance to save time on the day of cooking.
Use a food processor: Use a food processor to quickly combine the cream cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and cilantro for the stuffing.
Bake instead of grilling: If you're short on time, bake the stuffed peppers in the oven at 375°F for 25-30 minutes until the bacon is crisp.
Prep multiple batches: Make extra stuffed peppers and freeze them for later use, saving time on future meals.
Prep the peppers: Use a small paring knife to quickly remove the seeds and prepare the peppers for stuffing.
Use pre-cooked bacon: Consider using pre-cooked bacon to save time on grilling or baking the stuffed peppers.
Substitute Ingredients For Stuffed Banana Peppers Recipe
cream cheese - Substitute with ricotta cheese: Ricotta cheese has a similar creamy texture and mild flavor that works well as a substitute for cream cheese in stuffed banana peppers. It adds a slightly different flavor profile but still complements the other ingredients.
sun-dried tomatoes - Substitute with fresh tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes can be used as a substitute for sun-dried tomatoes. They provide a juicy and slightly acidic flavor that can add a refreshing contrast to the dish.
garlic cloves - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used as a substitute for fresh garlic cloves. It provides a similar garlic flavor and is convenient to use in place of fresh garlic.
fresh cilantro - Substitute with fresh parsley: Fresh parsley can be used as a substitute for cilantro, providing a similar fresh and herbaceous flavor to the dish.
banana peppers - Substitute with mini sweet peppers: Mini sweet peppers can be used as a substitute for banana peppers, offering a similar shape and mild, sweet flavor.
bacon slices - Substitute with prosciutto: Prosciutto can be used as a substitute for bacon, providing a savory and slightly salty flavor to the stuffed banana peppers.
How to Beautifully Present Stuffed Banana Peppers
Elevate the plating: Arrange the stuffed banana peppers in a circular or linear pattern on a large, elegant platter. Ensure that each pepper is positioned with precision and care, creating a visually stunning display.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle the platter with finely chopped cilantro or parsley to add a pop of color and a touch of freshness to the dish.
Incorporate edible flowers: Introduce delicate, colorful edible flowers such as nasturtiums or pansies to add an artistic and sophisticated touch to the presentation.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the platter, allowing the vibrant colors of the stuffed peppers and garnishes to stand out and captivate the eye.
Add a drizzle of balsamic reduction: Create elegant, artistic swirls of balsamic reduction on the platter to enhance the visual appeal and provide a touch of acidity to complement the flavors of the dish.
Accentuate with microgreens: Sprinkle the platter with a delicate scattering of microgreens to add a subtle layer of texture and a hint of earthy flavor to the overall presentation.
Incorporate geometric elements: Introduce artistic and precise geometric elements using chili oil or herb-infused oils to add a modern and visually striking component to the plating.
Use elegant serving ware: Select refined and sophisticated serving ware that complements the overall aesthetic, such as sleek white porcelain or artisanal ceramic dishes.
Essential Tools for Making This Recipe
- Grill: A cooking appliance used to cook food over direct heat, typically using gas, charcoal, or electricity.
- Paring knife: A small knife with a plain edge blade that is ideal for peeling, trimming, and slicing fruits and vegetables.
- Toothpicks: Small, pointed sticks used to hold food items together, such as securing bacon-wrapped stuffed peppers during grilling.
Storing and Freezing Stuffed Banana Peppers
- Let the stuffed banana peppers cool completely before storing or freezing.
- To store in the refrigerator, place the peppers in an airtight container or wrap them tightly with plastic wrap. They will keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
- For longer storage, you can freeze the stuffed peppers:
- Place the cooled peppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, making sure they aren't touching each other.
- Put the baking sheet in the freezer for about 2 hours, or until the peppers are frozen solid.
- Once frozen, transfer the peppers to a freezer-safe container or a resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
- Frozen stuffed banana peppers will keep for up to 3 months.
- To reheat frozen stuffed peppers, place them on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat them in the microwave, but the bacon may not be as crispy.
- If you plan to freeze the peppers, it's best to slightly undercook the bacon during the initial grilling process, as it will cook further when reheated.
How To Reheat Leftover Stuffed Banana Peppers
The best way to reheat leftover stuffed banana peppers is in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the peppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the peppers are heated through and the bacon is crispy.
Another option is to reheat the peppers in the microwave. Place the peppers on a microwave-safe plate and heat them on high for 1-2 minutes, or until they are heated through. Be careful not to overcook them, as the cream cheese filling may start to melt and become runny.
If you have an air fryer, you can also use it to reheat your leftover stuffed banana peppers. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the peppers in the basket. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the peppers are heated through and the bacon is crispy.
For a quick and easy reheat, you can also use a skillet on the stovetop. Heat a small amount of olive oil or butter in the skillet over medium heat. Add the peppers and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are heated through and the bacon is crispy.
Regardless of the method you choose, be sure to reheat the peppers until they are heated through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety. If the bacon starts to burn before the peppers are fully heated, you can cover the pan or baking sheet with aluminum foil to prevent further browning.
Interesting Trivia About Stuffed Banana Peppers
The stuffed banana peppers recipe is a delicious appetizer that combines the heat of the peppers with the creaminess of the cheese and the smokiness of the bacon. It's a versatile dish that can be served as a snack, a side dish, or even as a main course. The combination of sun-dried tomatoes and garlic adds a burst of flavor to the dish, making it a crowd-pleaser. Additionally, banana peppers are rich in vitamin C, making this recipe a healthy choice. So, next time you're looking for a flavorful and spicy dish, consider making these stuffed banana peppers!
Is Making Stuffed Banana Peppers at Home Cost-Effective?
This stuffed banana peppers recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients, including cream cheese, bacon, and banana peppers, are relatively affordable and readily available. The dish offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making it a versatile option for various occasions. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15, making it a budget-friendly choice. Overall Verdict: 9.
Are Stuffed Banana Peppers Healthy or Unhealthy?
This stuffed banana peppers recipe, while undeniably delicious, leans more towards the unhealthy side due to a few key ingredients:
- Cream cheese: High in saturated fat and calories, which can contribute to weight gain and increased risk of heart disease if consumed in excess.
- Bacon: Also high in saturated fat and sodium, which can lead to similar health issues as cream cheese.
- Lack of nutrients: The recipe doesn't include a significant amount of vitamins, minerals, or fiber, which are essential for a balanced diet.
However, the recipe does have some redeeming qualities, such as the use of fresh ingredients like garlic and cilantro, which offer some health benefits.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:
- Swap the cream cheese for a lower-fat alternative, such as ricotta or cottage cheese, which will still provide a creamy texture but with less saturated fat and calories.
- Use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon to reduce the amount of saturated fat and calories. Alternatively, you could omit the bacon altogether and add more sun-dried tomatoes or other vegetables for flavor.
- Incorporate more nutrient-dense ingredients, such as:
- Spinach or kale for added fiber, vitamins, and minerals
- Quinoa or brown rice for a boost of protein and complex carbohydrates
- Diced bell peppers or onions for extra flavor and nutrients
- Reduce the amount of cheese and bacon used in each pepper to decrease the overall calorie and fat content of the dish.
Editor's Opinion on Stuffed Banana Peppers
This stuffed banana peppers recipe is a delightful combination of creamy, tangy, and smoky flavors. The cream cheese filling, infused with sun-dried tomatoes and garlic, adds a rich and savory element to the dish, while the bacon lends a satisfying crunch. The grilling process enhances the peppers' natural sweetness and adds a subtle smokiness, resulting in a well-balanced and flavorful appetizer. The presentation is also visually appealing, making it a perfect addition to any gathering or meal.
Enhance Your Stuffed Banana Peppers Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Why trust this Stuffed Banana Peppers Recipe:
This stuffed banana peppers recipe guarantees a burst of flavor and satisfaction. The combination of creamy cream cheese, zesty sun-dried tomatoes, and aromatic garlic creates a tantalizing filling. The addition of fresh cilantro elevates the dish with a burst of freshness. The peppers are carefully selected for their vibrant color and robust flavor. The use of quality bacon ensures a perfect balance of smokiness and richness. Trust in the expertise behind this recipe to deliver a delightful and memorable culinary experience.
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