Creamy Lobster Stuffed Peppers
Highlighted under: Family Comfort Recipes
I absolutely love making Creamy Lobster Stuffed Peppers for special occasions or just when I'm craving something indulgent. The combination of tender lobster meat and creamy filling is incredibly satisfying, and the vibrant bell peppers make for a beautiful presentation. Plus, the recipe is surprisingly easy to put together; you'll impress your friends and family with this gourmet dish. Trust me, once you try these stuffed peppers, they’ll become a staple in your recipe rotation!
When I first decided to create these Creamy Lobster Stuffed Peppers, I wanted a dish that felt luxurious but didn’t require hours in the kitchen. I was delighted to discover that the combination of fresh lobster, herbs, and creamy cheese comes together beautifully in just under an hour. I recommend using sweet bell peppers as they perfectly complement the rich filling.
One tip I found helpful is to bake the peppers uncovered for the last 10 minutes. This allows the cheese to brown and create a delicious crust on top, adding an extra layer of flavor and visual appeal. Your guests will be asking for seconds!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Decadent lobster flavor that elevates your dinner experience
- Creamy and comforting filling that's perfectly seasoned
- Eye-catching presentation that's perfect for entertaining
Choosing the Right Peppers
When selecting bell peppers for this recipe, opt for large, firm ones to create robust containers for your filling. Look for peppers that have a vibrant color and smooth skin, as these factors can indicate freshness. If you're feeling adventurous, you can mix colors—red, yellow, and green—to create a visually stunning dish. Just keep in mind that the flavor may vary slightly; for instance, red peppers tend to be sweeter than their green counterparts, which can add a delightful contrast to the savory filling.
Before using the peppers, ensure they are thoroughly washed under cold water to remove any pesticide residue or dirt. After slicing the tops and removing the seeds, you may encounter some bits of the membrane; removing these will improve the presentation and overall texture. Additionally, a touch of olive oil brushed on the outside of the peppers can add flavor and assist with browning in the oven. Cooking time may vary slightly based on the thickness of the peppers, so keep an eye on them as they roast.
Perfecting the Filling
The filling is the heart of your lobster-stuffed peppers, so choosing high-quality ingredients is essential. Freshly cooked lobster meat is preferable for its sweet and tender texture, but if you can't find it lightly poached or steamed lobster meat can serve as a suitable substitute. Be sure to chop it into bite-sized pieces for an even distribution throughout the filling. Using room temperature cream cheese ensures it blends seamlessly with the other ingredients, resulting in a smooth and creamy texture that holds its shape during baking.
When mixing your filling, aim for a balanced flavor profile. The acidity from the lemon juice cuts through the richness of the cheeses and lobster, while the fresh basil adds a aromatic touch that complements the seafood. I recommend tasting the mixture before stuffing the peppers—this way, you can adjust the seasoning as needed. If you prefer a hint of spice, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños to the filling for an extra kick.
Ingredients
For the Stuffed Peppers
- 4 large bell peppers (any color)
- 1 lb cooked lobster meat, chopped
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
These ingredients come together to make a truly delicious dish!
Directions
Prepare the Peppers
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. Place them in a baking dish cut side up.
Make the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped lobster meat, cream cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, basil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
Stuff the Peppers
Spoon the lobster filling into each bell pepper, packing it loosely. Make sure to fill them generously.
Bake
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil to brown the tops and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
Serve
Once golden and bubbly, take them out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious creation!
These stuffed peppers are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven!
Pro Tips
- For an even richer flavor, consider mixing in a splash of white wine into the filling before stuffing the peppers.
Make-Ahead Tips
You can prepare these lobster stuffed peppers ahead of time for a hassle-free meal. Simply prepare the filling and stuff the peppers, then cover them tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Just make sure to remove them from the fridge about 30 minutes before baking to bring them to room temperature, which promotes more even cooking.
If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For optimal texture, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, rather than in the microwave, which can make the peppers soggy.
Serving Suggestions
These Creamy Lobster Stuffed Peppers are perfect as a standalone main dish, but they also pair beautifully with a light salad or a zesty coleslaw for a refreshing contrast. A citrus vinaigrette can further elevate the dish, balancing the richness of the filling. If you're serving them for a dinner party, consider garnishing with additional fresh basil or a sprinkle of lemon zest for a pop of color and freshness.
For a fun twist, you can transform the filling into a dip by omitting the peppers and baking it in a small casserole dish. Serve it warm with toasted baguette slices or tortilla chips for a delicious appetizer. This variation allows you to enjoy the lobster flavor in a different format while still impressing your guests with its gourmet flair.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen lobster meat for this recipe?
Yes, frozen lobster meat is a great alternative. Just thaw it completely before using.
→ What other vegetables can I use in this recipe?
You can try zucchini or mushrooms as an alternative to bell peppers for stuffing.
→ Can I prepare these peppers ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffed peppers a day in advance and refrigerate them. Just add some extra time to the bake if they are cold.
→ Is there a vegetarian option for this dish?
Certainly! Substitute the lobster with a mixture of sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and feta cheese for a delicious vegetarian stuffing.
Creamy Lobster Stuffed Peppers
I absolutely love making Creamy Lobster Stuffed Peppers for special occasions or just when I'm craving something indulgent. The combination of tender lobster meat and creamy filling is incredibly satisfying, and the vibrant bell peppers make for a beautiful presentation. Plus, the recipe is surprisingly easy to put together; you'll impress your friends and family with this gourmet dish. Trust me, once you try these stuffed peppers, they’ll become a staple in your recipe rotation!
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Family Comfort Recipes
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Stuffed Peppers
- 4 large bell peppers (any color)
- 1 lb cooked lobster meat, chopped
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. Place them in a baking dish cut side up.
In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped lobster meat, cream cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, basil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
Spoon the lobster filling into each bell pepper, packing it loosely. Make sure to fill them generously.
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil to brown the tops and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
Once golden and bubbly, take them out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Extra Tips
- For an even richer flavor, consider mixing in a splash of white wine into the filling before stuffing the peppers.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Cholesterol: 130mg
- Sodium: 550mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 20g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 25g