Delicious Stuffed Banana Peppers

Unleash a burst of flavors with our tantalizing recipe for Stuffed Banana Peppers. This culinary marvel combines the heat of banana peppers with the richness of cream cheese, the savory kick of bacon, and the brightness of cilantro. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the art of creating these delectable stuffed peppers, offering cook notes, variations, and keto and low-carb versions for those seeking dietary alternatives. Get ready to elevate your appetizer game with this delicious and versatile dish.

Ingredients You Will Need

To craft these delicious stuffed banana peppers, gather the following ingredients:

Meat

• 10 slices peppered bacon – Adds a smoky, savory flavor.

Produce

• 10 banana peppers – Mild heat with a sweet undertone.
• 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro – Brightens the dish with a fresh, citrusy note.
• 3 cloves garlic – Provides a robust, aromatic flavor.
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes – Adds a rich, tangy sweetness.

Dairy

• 2 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese – Creamy base that holds the stuffing together.

Other

• Toothpicks – To secure the stuffed peppers.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Stuffed Banana Peppers

Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it reaches the desired temperature by the time you’re ready to bake.

1. Cook the bacon: Place the peppered bacon slices in a frying pan and cook until crispy. Once done, place them on paper towels to drain excess fat, then crumble or chop them into small pieces.
2. Chop the fresh cilantro finely to release its vibrant aroma and flavor.
3. Mince the garlic cloves, ensuring the pieces are small to blend well into the filling.
4. Dice the sun-dried tomatoes finely for an even distribution throughout the stuffing.

Step 2: Preparing the Banana Peppers

1. Cut a slit lengthwise down each banana pepper, creating an opening for stuffing. Be careful to leave the pepper as intact as possible.
2. Remove the seeds and membranes carefully to reduce the heat level and create more space for the filling. This step is crucial for those who prefer a milder dish.

Step 3: Making the Filling

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the crumbled bacon, chopped cilantro, diced sun-dried tomatoes, and softened cream cheese.
2. Mix thoroughly until all the ingredients are well incorporated, ensuring the flavors are evenly distributed.

Step 4: Stuffing the Peppers

1. Using a spoon or a piping bag, stuff each banana pepper with the cream cheese mixture. Be generous but careful not to overstuff, as the filling may spill out during baking.
2. Secure each pepper with a toothpick to keep the filling inside and maintain the shape of the pepper.

Step 5: Baking

1. Arrange the stuffed banana peppers on a baking sheet, ensuring they are evenly spaced.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the filling is golden and bubbly.

Step 6: Serving

1. Allow the stuffed banana peppers to cool slightly before serving to enhance the flavors and prevent burns.
2. Garnish with additional cilantro if desired, adding a touch of color and freshness to the dish.