Name: Pimento Cheese Stuffed Shishito Peppers
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Shishito peppers (quantity as desired); Pimento cheese (about 2 teaspoons per pepper); 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil; Flaky salt (for topping)

If you’re looking for a trendy, flavorful appetizer that’s both quick to prepare and guaranteed to impress, these Pimento Cheese Stuffed Shishito Peppers are your answer. Combining the mild, smoky heat of blistered shishito peppers with the creamy, tangy richness of pimento cheese, this recipe is a step up from the classic jalapeño popper. It’s the kind of dish that feels elevated yet approachable, making it perfect for parties, family gatherings, or even a fun snack to enjoy on a quiet evening.

What makes these peppers special is their versatility. Shishito peppers are mild and flavorful, with just the occasional surprise pepper that packs a little heat. Stuffing them with pimento cheese transforms them into bite-sized indulgences that are rich, satisfying, and endlessly snackable. Whether you’re entertaining a crowd or just treating yourself, these peppers are a must-try. Let’s explore why they’re so irresistible, how to make them, and tips for ensuring they turn out perfectly every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: You only need four ingredients and about 15 minutes to create this show-stopping dish.
Sophisticated Flavor: The combination of charred shishito peppers and creamy, tangy pimento cheese offers a unique flavor profile that feels elevated.
Perfect for Entertaining: These stuffed peppers are ideal as finger food, and their bright, blistered appearance makes them a visually stunning addition to any appetizer spread.
Customizable: You can easily adapt the recipe to suit your preferences, whether that means adding a hint of spice or using a different cheese filling.
Naturally Low-Carb: These peppers are a lighter option for snacking, fitting well into low-carb or keto diets without compromising on flavor.

Preparation Time and Servings

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: Serves 4 as an appetizer (adjust quantity as needed)
Calories: Approximately 170 calories per serving

Ingredients

You’ll only need a few simple ingredients to bring this recipe to life:

Shishito peppers: Choose fresh, firm peppers. Their mild heat makes them approachable for everyone.
Pimento cheese: Approximately 2 teaspoons per pepper. Use store-bought or homemade for a creamy, tangy filling.
3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil: For blistering the peppers and adding a light richness.
Flaky salt: Enhances the flavor and adds a satisfying crunch to the finished dish.

Optional garnishes include a sprinkle of smoked paprika, chopped chives, or a drizzle of hot honey for a sweet and spicy kick.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Peppers

Start by washing the shishito peppers and patting them dry with a clean kitchen towel. Using a small paring knife, cut a small slit into the side of each pepper. Be careful not to cut all the way through the pepper—you want to create a pocket for the filling.

Next, use a small spoon (or your fingers) to stuff about 2 teaspoons of pimento cheese into each pepper. Don’t overfill them, as the cheese will melt slightly during cooking. Set the stuffed peppers aside on a plate.

Step 2: Cook the Peppers

Heat 3 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully arrange the stuffed peppers in a single layer in the skillet.

Cook the peppers for about 2 minutes, turning them occasionally with tongs to ensure even blistering. The goal is to achieve lightly blackened, blistered skin on all sides while warming the cheese filling. Be gentle when turning the peppers to avoid squeezing out the filling.

Step 3: Serve

Once the peppers are beautifully blistered, transfer them to a serving platter. Sprinkle them with flaky salt for a finishing touch. For an extra pop of flavor, consider adding a light dusting of smoked paprika or a drizzle of hot honey. Serve the peppers warm for the best texture and flavor.

Tips for Success

Don’t Overstuff: Adding too much cheese can cause it to ooze out during cooking. Stick to about 2 teaspoons per pepper for the perfect balance.
Blister with Care: Medium-low heat is key to achieving a perfect blister without burning the peppers or drying out the filling.
Customize the Pimento Cheese: If you’re making homemade pimento cheese, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for a spicier kick.
Serve Immediately: These peppers are best enjoyed warm when the cheese is gooey and the peppers are tender. If serving later, gently reheat them in the skillet.
Choose Fresh Peppers: Look for shishito peppers that are firm, vibrant green, and free of blemishes for the best flavor and texture.

Recipe Variations

This recipe is easily customizable to suit your taste preferences. Here are some variations to try:

Spicy Version: Mix chopped jalapeños or hot sauce into the pimento cheese for an extra kick.
Herbaceous Touch: Add chopped fresh herbs like chives, parsley, or basil to the cheese filling for a fresh, aromatic twist.
Cheese Swap: Use goat cheese, cream cheese, or even blue cheese as an alternative to pimento cheese for a different flavor profile.
Grilled Option: Instead of cooking the peppers in a skillet, blister them on a hot grill for a smoky char.
Sweet and Spicy: Drizzle the cooked peppers with hot honey for a delightful contrast of flavors.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 170
Fat: 15g
Carbohydrates: 3g
Protein: 7g
Sugar: 2g
Fiber: 1g

How to Serve

Pimento Cheese Stuffed Shishito Peppers are versatile and can be served in various ways:

Appetizer Spread: Arrange them on a platter alongside dips like hummus, guacamole, or tzatziki for a crowd-pleasing appetizer spread.
Cocktail Party Pairing: Serve them with crisp white wine or a light beer to balance the creamy and smoky flavors.
Casual Snacking: Enjoy them as a fun, indulgent snack on their own or with a simple green salad for a lighter meal.

Make-Ahead and Storage

These peppers are best served fresh, but you can prepare the components in advance:

Prepare the Peppers: Stuff the peppers with cheese up to 1 day ahead and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Cook Before Serving: Blister the peppers just before serving to ensure they’re warm and perfectly textured.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat them in a skillet over low heat for the best results.

Conclusion

These Pimento Cheese Stuffed Shishito Peppers are a delightful combination of bold flavors and simple preparation. The creamy, tangy pimento cheese pairs perfectly with the smoky, charred peppers, making them a standout appetizer for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, planning a holiday menu, or simply looking for an elevated snack, this recipe is a guaranteed hit.

I can’t wait for you to try this recipe! If you make it, be sure to let me know how it turned out. Share your photos, feedback, and tips in the comments or on social media—I love seeing your creations. Enjoy every cheesy, smoky bite!