Bite-sized pizza pepper poppers are a fun and delicious appetizer that combines the flavors of pizza with the crunch of peppers. Here’s an easy recipe for making them:
Bite-Sized Pizza Pepper Poppers Recipe
Ingredients:
- 12 mini sweet peppers (or bell peppers, halved and seeds removed)
- 1 cup pizza sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or a blend of mozzarella and cheddar)
- 1/2 cup mini pepperoni slices (optional)
- 1/4 tsp dried oregano
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- Olive oil spray (or a little olive oil for drizzling)
- Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the peppers:
- Slice the mini sweet peppers in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes. If you’re using bell peppers, just cut them into bite-sized pieces or halves.
- Stuff the peppers:
- Place the pepper halves on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Spoon a little pizza sauce into each pepper half, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the sauce in each pepper.
- Add mini pepperoni slices or any other toppings you prefer (like olives, mushrooms, or sausage).
- Season:
- Sprinkle the filled peppers with a pinch of dried oregano and garlic powder for extra flavor.
- Bake:
- Lightly spray or drizzle olive oil over the stuffed peppers to help them crisp up.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the peppers are tender.
- Garnish and serve:
- Remove the poppers from the oven and garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired.
- Let them cool for a minute or two, and then serve hot!
Tips:
- If you prefer a spicier kick, you can use spicy Italian sausage or add a few sliced jalapeños on top.
- You can also make these ahead of time and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake.
These pizza pepper poppers are great as a snack, appetizer, or party food. They combine all the classic pizza flavors in a bite-sized, colorful form. Are you planning to serve them for a special occasion or just for a fun meal at home?