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Cream Cheese Stuffed Banana Peppers Recipe Easy Spicy Appetizer with Calabrian Chili Oil

cream cheese stuffed banana peppers - featured image

A quick and easy appetizer featuring banana peppers stuffed with a creamy blend of cream cheese and Parmesan, topped with smoky Calabrian chili oil for a perfect balance of spicy and creamy flavors.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 medium banana peppers, fresh and firm
  • 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup (25 g) Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons Calabrian chili oil
  • Red pepper flakes (optional, a pinch)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and allow it to heat fully for about 10 minutes.
  2. Rinse banana peppers under cold water and pat dry. Slice each pepper lengthwise and carefully remove seeds and membranes.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and black pepper. Stir until smooth and evenly blended.
  4. Using a small spoon or piping bag, fill each pepper half with the cream cheese mixture, avoiding overstuffing.
  5. Place stuffed peppers cut side up on a lined baking sheet or oven-safe dish.
  6. Drizzle Calabrian chili oil evenly over the peppers and sprinkle red pepper flakes if desired.
  7. Bake for 15-20 minutes until peppers are tender and filling is warmed through without browning excessively.
  8. Let the peppers cool slightly for about 5 minutes before serving to allow the filling to set.

Notes

Use a piping bag or a ziplock bag with a corner snipped off for easier stuffing. Remove seeds carefully to avoid bitterness. Use quality Calabrian chili oil for best flavor. Adjust baking time if using thicker or different peppers. For dairy-free option, substitute cream cheese with plant-based alternative and omit Parmesan or use vegan cheese.

Nutrition

Keywords: banana peppers, cream cheese, stuffed peppers, Calabrian chili oil, spicy appetizer, easy appetizer, party food, low-carb snack