• Action: Wash and thoroughly dry the mini sweet peppers. Using a small, sharp knife, slice each pepper in half lengthwise, from the stem to the tip.
• Action: Use your fingers or a small spoon to gently remove the seeds and the white membrane from the inside of each pepper half.
• Why this step is important: This creates a clean, hollowed-out “boat” for your filling. Removing the white membrane (the pith) is key, as it can sometimes have a slightly bitter taste. A clean cavity allows you to pack in more of the delicious filling.

Step 2: Create the Cream Cheese Filling

• Action: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, place the 8 ounces of softened cream cheese. Use a fork or a spatula to mash it until it is completely smooth.
• Action: Add the ½ cup of shredded cheese, 2 tablespoons of Everything Bagel Seasoning, the minced garlic (or garlic powder), and the optional sliced green onions. Season with a small pinch of salt and pepper.
• Why this step is important: Remember that the Everything Bagel Seasoning already contains salt, so be conservative with any extra salt you add. Taste the filling before you decide if it needs more.
• Action: Mix all the ingredients together until they are thoroughly combined and the filling is uniform.

Step 3: Stuff the Peppers

• Action: Using a small spoon or a butter knife, carefully spoon the cream cheese mixture into each pepper half. Fill them generously, mounding the filling slightly.
• Why this step is important: Don’t be shy with the filling! The ratio of creamy filling to crisp pepper is key to the perfect bite.
• Action: Arrange the stuffed pepper halves on a serving platter or a baking sheet, depending on how you plan to serve them.
• Action: Sprinkle a little extra Everything Bagel Seasoning over the top of each stuffed pepper for extra crunch and visual appeal.

Step 4: Choose Your Method: Chilled or Baked

For Chilled (No-Cook) Stuffed Peppers:

• Action: After stuffing and garnishing the peppers, place the platter in the refrigerator to chill for at least 30 minutes.
• Why this step is important: Chilling allows the cream cheese filling to firm up slightly and the flavors to meld together. This version is perfect for a crisp, refreshing appetizer. They are ready to serve straight from the fridge.

For Baked (Warm) Stuffed Peppers:

• Action: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the stuffed peppers in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Why this step is important: The parchment paper prevents the cheese from sticking to the pan if any melts out.
• Action: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the peppers are tender-crisp and the cheese is hot, bubbly, and slightly golden on top.
• Action: Let them cool for a few minutes before serving, as the filling will be very hot.