🦐 Grilled Shrimp Stuffed Mini Bell Peppers

Ingredients

For the Stuffed Peppers

• 8 mini sweet bell peppers, halved and seeded

• 4 oz (115g) cream cheese, softened

• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 2 tbsp finely diced onion

• 1 tbsp chopped green onions

• 1 tsp lemon juice

• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Shrimp

• 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• ½ tsp garlic powder

• ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)

• Salt and black pepper to taste

Garnish

• Chopped green onions

• Fresh parsley

• Extra Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Peppers

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Slice mini peppers in half lengthwise.

3. Remove seeds and membranes.

Step 2: Make the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine:

• Cream cheese

• Mozzarella cheese

• Parmesan cheese

• Onion

• Lemon juice

• Salt and pepper

Mix until smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Stuff the Peppers

1. Spoon the cheese mixture into each pepper half.

2. Arrange on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 4: Cook the Shrimp

1. Toss shrimp with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, cayenne, salt, and pepper.

2. Grill or sear in a hot skillet for 2–3 minutes per side until lightly charred.

Step 5: Bake

Bake stuffed peppers for 12–15 minutes until the filling is hot and bubbly.

Step 6: Assemble

1. Remove peppers from the oven.

2. Top each pepper with a grilled shrimp.

3. Sprinkle with parsley, green onions, and Parmesan.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve as a party appetizer.

• Pair with garlic aioli, Cajun sauce, or spicy ranch.

• Excellent for game nights, holidays, and seafood platters.

Prep Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 15 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

Nutrition (Per Serving)

• Calories: 260

• Protein: 20g

• Carbohydrates: 8g

• Fat: 16g

Chef's Tip

For an extra indulgent version, mix chopped crab meat or lobster into the cheese filling before baking. The sweet peppers, creamy cheese, and smoky grilled shrimp create an irresistible bite-sized appetizer that's always a crowd favorite. 🍤🫑✨