Shrimp-Stuffed Mini Peppers 🌶️🍤🧄🧀 Creamy, Zesty, and Bite-Sized With Juicy Shrimp and a Bold, Cheesy Filling

This dish delivers contrast in every bite: cool, crunchy mini peppers filled with a creamy, herby, garlicky shrimp mixture. You can serve them cold or baked, depending on your vibe — both versions shine.

Think shrimp dip meets stuffed pepper, no fork required.

Ingredients (Makes ~20 halves)

For the peppers

• 10 mini sweet bell peppers, halved and seeded
• Olive oil (if baking)
• Salt and pepper (optional)

For the shrimp filling

• ½ lb cooked shrimp, finely chopped
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
• 1 clove garlic, finely minced
• 1–2 tbsp chopped green onion or chives
• 1–2 tbsp chopped parsley or cilantro
• Zest and juice of ½ lemon or lime
• ¼ cup shredded sharp cheddar or Parmesan
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: dash of hot sauce, cayenne, or smoked paprika

Instructions

Step 1: Prep the peppers
Slice peppers in half lengthwise and remove seeds. If serving raw, set aside. If baking, brush lightly with oil and season with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Make the filling
In a bowl, mix chopped shrimp, cream cheese, sour cream, garlic, herbs, citrus, and shredded cheese. Season to taste with salt, pepper, and any optional heat.

Step 3: Stuff the peppers
Spoon or pipe the filling into each pepper half. Smooth the tops or leave them rustic. Garnish with more herbs or chili flakes if desired.

Step 4: Serve or bake

• For cold bites: Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.
• For hot bites: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 12–15 minutes until warm and slightly golden on top.

Flavor Variations

• Add crumbled bacon or pancetta to the filling
• Use goat cheese, ricotta, or feta instead of cream cheese
• Mix in sun-dried tomatoes or olives for Mediterranean flair
• Add a spoonful of Dijon or horseradish for extra zing
• Top baked version with breadcrumbs or crispy shallots for crunch

Pro Tips

• Use small shrimp or chop finely for easier stuffing and better bite
• Don’t overfill — just a heaping spoonful per half works best
• Chill cold version fully before serving for cleaner texture
• If baking, line your sheet pan with parchment for easy cleanup

Final Thoughts

Shrimp-Stuffed Mini Peppers are creamy, bright, and ultra snackable — perfect as a fresh bite or warm appetizer. Whether you’re going elegant or casual, they pack huge flavor in tiny form.

Chop it. Mix it. Stuff it in and pass the tray. 🌶️🍤🧄🧀

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