If you’re looking for a delicious and comforting dish that brings everyone together at the dinner table, then these Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Peppers are just what you need! They are not only colorful and eye-catching but also packed with nutrients. This recipe is a family favorite of mine, and it’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you have friends over for a cozy gathering. Plus, they can be prepped ahead of time, making your life a little easier!

Imagine sinking your fork into a tender bell pepper, filled with creamy ricotta and savory spinach. The flavors meld beautifully, creating a dish that feels indulgent yet wholesome. Trust me; once you try this recipe, it will quickly become a go-to in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, you’ll have these stuffed peppers ready in no time.
Family-Friendly: Kids love the fun presentation, and parents appreciate the nutritious filling.
Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare them ahead of time and pop them in the oven when you’re ready to eat.
Delicious Flavor: The combination of creamy ricotta, savory spinach, and sweet peppers creates an irresistible taste.
Versatile Dish: Perfect as a main course or served alongside a fresh salad or crusty bread.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients for this delightful dish! You’ll find everything you need right at your local grocery store.

4 Large Bell Peppers (any color) – These form the edible bowls for our filling. Choose peppers that are firm, relatively uniform in size, and can stand upright when halved. Red, yellow, or orange peppers tend to be sweeter than green ones.
1 tbsp Olive Oil – Extra virgin olive oil is preferred for sautéing the aromatics, adding a fruity depth.
1 medium Yellow Onion (finely chopped) – Provides a foundational sweet and savory flavor base for the filling.
3-4 cloves Garlic (minced) – Essential for its pungent aroma and flavor boost. Adjust the amount based on your preference for garlic.
1 (10 oz) package Frozen Chopped Spinach (thawed and squeezed very dry) – Using frozen spinach is convenient. The crucial step is squeezing out as much water as possible to prevent a soggy filling. Alternatively, use about 1 pound of fresh spinach, wilted and squeezed dry.
1 (15 oz) container Whole Milk Ricotta Cheese – This is the heart of the filling, providing a creamy, rich texture. Whole milk ricotta offers the best flavor and consistency.
1 Large Egg (lightly beaten) – Acts as a binder, helping the filling hold its shape once baked.
½ cup Grated Parmesan Cheese (plus extra for topping) – Adds a salty, nutty complexity to the filling and creates a delicious crust when sprinkled on top.
¼ cup Plain Breadcrumbs (optional, Panko preferred) – Helps bind the filling and adds a slight texture. Panko breadcrumbs offer a lighter, crispier result. You can omit for a gluten-free version or use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
1 tsp Dried Italian Seasoning (or mix of dried oregano and basil) – Infuses the filling with classic Mediterranean herbs. Fresh herbs like chopped basil or parsley can also be used (use about 1 tbsp fresh for 1 tsp dried).
½ tsp Salt (or to taste) – Enhances all the other flavors. Adjust based on the saltiness of your Parmesan.
¼ tsp Black Pepper (freshly ground preferred) – Adds a touch of warmth and spice.
Optional: ½ cup Marinara Sauce – For lining the bottom of the baking dish, adding moisture and extra flavor during baking.

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with different ingredients or flavors to suit your taste.

Add some protein: Mix in cooked quinoa or shredded chicken for an extra hearty meal.
Change up the cheese: Try using feta cheese instead of ricotta for a tangy twist on flavor.
Go Mediterranean: Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes or olives into the filling for an added burst of flavor.
Spice it up: Incorporate red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños if you prefer some heat.

How to Make Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

Step 1: Prepare the Peppers

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats up, wash your bell peppers thoroughly. Cut them in half lengthwise and remove any seeds inside. Place them cut-side up in a baking dish lined with marinara sauce if using. This step not only prevents sticking but also adds moisture as they bake.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and let it warm up before tossing in your finely chopped onion. Sauté until it’s translucent—this usually takes about 5 minutes—then add minced garlic. Cooking these aromatics helps release their natural sweetness that will enhance our stuffing!

Step 3: Make the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine thawed spinach (be sure it’s really dry), ricotta cheese, beaten egg, grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs (if using), Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir until it’s well combined. This mixture is where all those wonderful flavors come together!

Step 4: Stuff Your Peppers

Now comes the fun part! Spoon generous amounts of the spinach ricotta mixture into each half of your prepared bell peppers. Don’t be shy; pack it in there! If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle more grated Parmesan on top before placing them in the oven.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden

Cover your baking dish with foil to keep moisture in during baking—after about 25 minutes covered at 375°F (190°C), remove the foil so they can brown nicely on top. Bake for an additional 10–15 minutes until golden brown and bubbly on top.

And there you have it—golden-brown Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Peppers that are sure to impress! Enjoy every bite with family or friends; they won’t last long!

Pro Tips for Making Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

Making these stuffed peppers is a delightful experience, and a few tips can make your dish even more flavorful and satisfying!

Choose the right peppers: Opt for firm, colorful bell peppers that stand upright. They not only look vibrant on your plate but also provide the perfect vessel for your filling.
Squeeze out excess moisture: After thawing your spinach, make sure to squeeze it dry. This prevents the filling from becoming watery and ensures that every bite is packed with flavor.
Mix in fresh herbs: While dried Italian seasoning works well, adding fresh herbs like basil or parsley enhances the freshness of your filling and brightens the overall flavor profile.
Bake until golden: Keep an eye on your stuffed peppers while they bake. A golden-brown topping adds texture and visual appeal, making them even more inviting!
Make-ahead option: Prepare the filling in advance and stuff the peppers just before baking. This saves time on busy weeknights and allows you to enjoy a homemade meal without much fuss.

How to Serve Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

These Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Peppers are as delicious as they are visually appealing! Presenting them beautifully can elevate your dining experience, making it feel extra special.

Garnishes

Fresh Basil Leaves: A few leaves of fresh basil placed on top not only add a pop of color but also enhance the aroma and flavor.
Drizzle of Olive Oil: A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil just before serving can add richness and a touch of elegance to each pepper.

Side Dishes

Garlic Bread: The crunchy texture and buttery garlic flavor complement the creamy stuffing beautifully.
Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the stuffed peppers, creating a wholesome meal.
Quinoa Pilaf: Nutty quinoa cooked with vegetables offers a hearty side that pairs well with the flavors of the dish.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add vibrancy to your plate and contribute extra nutrients—plus, their caramelized edges are simply delightful!

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re ready to impress family and friends with a comforting meal that’s both nutritious and beautiful. Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Peppers are perfect for meal prep! You can easily make them ahead of time, making busy weeknights a breeze and ensuring you have a healthy, satisfying meal ready to go.

Storing Leftovers

Allow the stuffed peppers to cool completely before storing.
Place them in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
For best flavor, consume within the first couple of days.

Freezing

To freeze, wrap each stuffed pepper tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
Place wrapped peppers in a freezer-safe bag or container.
They can be frozen for up to 3 months. For best results, label the container with the date.

Reheating

Thaw frozen peppers in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Place the peppers in a baking dish, cover with foil, and reheat for about 25-30 minutes until warmed through. If desired, remove the foil during the last 5 minutes to crisp the top.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Peppers that might help you!

Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen in Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Peppers?

Absolutely! About 1 pound of fresh spinach will work perfectly. Just wilt it down, squeeze out excess moisture, and then mix it into your filling.

How long do Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Peppers last in the fridge?

Stored properly in an airtight container, these stuffed peppers can last in the fridge for up to 3 days. Enjoy them as leftovers!

Can I prepare Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Peppers ahead of time?

Yes! These peppers can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the fridge or freezer until you’re ready to bake them. Perfect for meal prep!

What can I serve with Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Peppers?

These stuffed peppers pair wonderfully with a side salad or some crusty bread. A light marinara sauce drizzled over top also adds extra flavor!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delightful Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Peppers as much as I do! They’re not only easy to prepare but also filled with wholesome ingredients that make for a comforting and satisfying meal. Give them a try—your taste buds will thank you! Happy cooking!