If you’re looking for a savory appetizer that packs a punch, then these pepper poppers are for you. A mix of sausage, garlic and cheese, this dish is memorable and a definite crowd-pleaser. I use a mix of jalapeno peppers and the more mild tri-color varietals–not to be confused with bell peppers.
Gardeners will especially appreciate this recipe, because peppers are super easy to grow. And when you have an abundant harvest, you need ways to consume it!
For best results, pop these peppers into the oven just before ready to serve for maximum gooey-delicious impact.
Pepper Poppers
Author: Rashelle Miller
Recipe type: Appetizer
Cuisine: American
Prep time:
Cook time:
Total time:
Serves: 30-40
These peppers are delicious and can be served spicy or mild, depending on your taste buds.
Ingredients
- 15-20 peppers, jalapeno or sweet, sliced in half lengthwise, seeds removed
- 1 lb. mild Italian sausage
- ¼ cup minced red pepper
- ¼ cup minced red onion
- ⅛ cup minced jalapenos (optional)
- 3 TBSP minced garlic
- 1 8 oz. package of softened cream cheese
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese
- salt/pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
- Brown sausage, peppers, onions, garlic and minced jalapeno.
- Drain grease and add softened cream cheese, Parmesan, salt/pepper and mix well.
- Line baking sheet with nonstick foil or parchment paper.
- Place approximately 1 TBSP of mixture into each pepper half and top with ½ tsp mozzarella cheese.
- Place the tray of peppers into the oven and bake until cheese is melted.
- Sprinkle a bit of Parmesan over top before serving.
Notes
I use a mix of peppers for this recipe, because I find that some like it "hot" while others "not!" These sweet peppers are not your bell pepper variety, but appear more similar to the jalapeno variety and can be found in the produce section sold by the bag (usually tri-color).
