Stuffed Pepper Sliders with Cheese

Name: Stuffed Pepper Sliders with Cheese
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 large bell peppers; 1 pound ground beef or turkey; 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix); 1/2 cup cooked rice; 1/4 cup diced onions; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

When I first tried making stuffed pepper sliders, I instantly fell in love with the combination of flavors. The sweet bell peppers are the perfect vessel for the cheesy filling, creating a delightful bite that's both hearty and fresh. This recipe allows me to bring together fresh vegetables and gooey cheese, making it a great dish for a gathering. Each slider is a masterpiece of taste, and they vanish quickly from the plate, leaving my guests always asking for the recipe!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-06T22:58:30.281Z

I remember the first gathering I had after perfecting my stuffed pepper slider recipe. The vibrant colors of the peppers caught everyone's eye, and the aroma wafting through the kitchen had them asking what was cooking. The combination of melting cheese and savory spices inside each pepper is something that's always a hit. A little hint: using a mix of cheeses creates a depth of flavor that truly elevates the dish.

Each time I whip these up, I experiment with different meats and spices, ensuring every batch is unique. Whether using ground turkey or beef, the sliders stay juicy and flavorful. Plus, making these sliders ahead of time makes for a stress-free entertaining experience!

        Why You'll Love These Sliders
        Colorful presentation makes them a showstopper at any gathering.
Customizable filling options cater to various tastes and dietary preferences.
A fantastic way to incorporate more vegetables into your meals.

      

Choosing the Right Peppers

For this recipe, it's essential to choose bell peppers that are firm and vibrant in color. Opt for a mix of red, yellow, and green to create a visually appealing dish. Make sure each pepper is large enough to hold a generous portion of the filling; they should sit upright in the baking dish without wobbling. When slicing the tops, aim for a clean, even cut to allow for a snug fit when baking, ensuring the cheese melts beautifully over the filling.

If sweet bell peppers aren't your preference or are unavailable, consider using poblano peppers for a slightly spicier kick. Their shape is also suitable for stuffing, and they provide a wonderful smoky flavor that pairs well with the cheese filling. Regardless of the type, remember to remove all seeds and membranes thoroughly, which can contribute to a bitter taste if left intact.

The Power of Cheese

Choosing the right cheese can significantly impact the flavor profile of your stuffed peppers. Cheddar brings sharpness, whereas mozzarella provides a delightful stretch when melted. A blend of both achieves a perfect balance of creaminess and depth. For a twist, sprinkle in some feta or goat cheese; their tangy notes can brighten up the overall dish, harmonizing beautifully with the sweetness of the peppers.

When mixing in the cheese, be mindful of the amount. Too much can lead to an overly greasy filling, while too little may result in a dry mixture. I recommend using at least one cup of cheese, dividing it as specified in the recipe to ensure the filling remains moist while still having that indulgent cheesy topping. If you're looking for a lighter option, low-fat cheese blends can work well, though they might not melt as richly.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

These stuffed pepper sliders can be prepped ahead of time, making them an excellent choice for busy weeknights or gatherings. You can assemble the filled peppers and store them in the refrigerator, covered, for up to a day before baking. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld together more intensively. When you're ready to cook, simply add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time to ensure they're heated through.

If you want to freeze the stuffed peppers, do so before baking. Wrap each pepper tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to three months. To cook from frozen, I suggest letting them thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Then, bake as per the recipe with an additional 10-15 minutes to accommodate their chilled state. This method allows you to enjoy these delicious sliders at your convenience!

Ingredients

For the Sliders

4 large bell peppers
1 pound ground beef or turkey
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
1/2 cup cooked rice
1/4 cup diced onions
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Peppers

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Place them upright in a baking dish.

Make the Filling

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground meat until browned. Add onions, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir in cooked rice and half of the cheese, mixing well.

Stuff the Peppers

Fill each pepper with the meat and rice mixture, pressing down lightly. Top with the remaining cheese.

Bake

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, until the peppers are tender and the cheese is bubbly.

Allow cooling for a few minutes before serving. These sliders are perfect for sandwiches or as a stand-alone dish!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, you can add jalapeños or hot sauce to the meat mixture. Also, experiment with different cheese types for various flavors!

Variations to Try

These stuffed pepper sliders can easily be tailored to fit various dietary needs. For a vegetarian option, substitute the ground meat with chopped mushrooms, lentils, or black beans. Adding diced zucchini or corn can elevate the texture and sweetness, enhancing the overall dish while fitting vegetarian and vegan diets. Be cautious with cooking times; ensure they’re sufficiently tender before serving.

Additionally, you could experiment with different grains in place of rice. Quinoa or farro not only add a nutty flavor but also increase the nutritional value. For a Mediterranean twist, incorporate olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and herbs like basil or oregano into the filling. These variations can give the sliders an exciting update, keeping them fresh and appealing.

Serving Suggestions

To serve these sliders, consider placing them on a large platter garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a pop of color. Pairing them with a side salad or a light, tangy coleslaw can help balance the richness of the cheesy filling. For added crunch, you can offer tortilla chips with a salsa verde, providing a contrast that complements the sliders wonderfully.

For a fun twist, serve the stuffed peppers with small dipping bowls of ranch dressing or a zesty dip for guests to enjoy. This interactive element can elevate your dining experience, making it memorable and engaging. You might also find that adding a sprinkle of crushed tortilla chips on top before serving can give an appealing crunch that contrasts with the soft filling.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find that your stuffed peppers are too crunchy after baking, it could be due to the type of pepper used or insufficient baking time. Generally, larger and thicker peppers take longer to cook. I recommend checking for tenderness by piercing the peppers with a fork; they should be soft but not mushy. If you prefer them softer, covering with foil helps trap steam, cooking them more effectively.

Another potential issue is the filling spilling out during baking. To avoid this, ensure you’re packing the filling in firmly but not overstuffing. A slight depress in the filling before topping with cheese can provide space for expansion without spilling over. Also, placing the peppers upright in a snug baking dish helps them maintain their shape during cooking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of peppers?

Absolutely! You can use any color of bell peppers or even poblano peppers for a smoky flavor.

→ Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the stuffed peppers and refrigerate them before baking. Just add a few minutes to the cooking time when baking from cold.

→ What can I serve these sliders with?

These sliders pair well with a green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

→ Are these sliders suitable for freezing?

Yes, you can freeze the unbaked stuffed peppers. Just thaw and bake as directed when ready to eat.