Grilled Spanish-Style Cheese-Stuffed Peppers on the Arteflame

There is something inherently social and vibrant about Spanish tapas culture, where food is meant to be shared, savored, and enjoyed with good company. These Grilled Spanish-Style Cheese-Stuffed Peppers capture that very essence, blending the smoky char of the grill with the rich, nutty creaminess of Manchego cheese. Unlike traditional oven-baked appetizers, preparing these on the Arteflame grill adds a distinct depth of flavor. The high-heat sear of the flat-top plancha blisters the pepper skins perfectly while gently melting the savory filling into a gooey, irresistible delight. Whether you are hosting a summer barbecue or looking for a sophisticated starter for a dinner party, this recipe brings a touch of Mediterranean flair to your backyard. The combination of sweet peppers, sharp Spanish cheese, and aromatic smoked paprika creates a flavor profile that is both comforting and exotic, ensuring these bites disappear from the platter almost as fast as you can grill them.

Ingredients

• 12-15 mini sweet peppers (mix of red, orange, and yellow)
• 1 cup Manchego cheese, finely grated (can substitute with mild Pecorino if needed)
• 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened to room temperature
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (pimentón)
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (plus extra for garnish)
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Peppers

1. Wash the mini sweet peppers thoroughly and pat them completely dry with a paper towel.
2. Using a small paring knife, make a lengthwise slit from the stem to the tip of each pepper. Do not cut the pepper in half; you want to create a pocket.
3. Gently pry the opening apart and carefully scrape out the seeds and white membranes using a small spoon or your fingers, keeping the stem intact for a nice presentation.

Step 2: Create the Cheese Filling

1. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and the grated Manchego cheese.
2. Add the minced garlic, smoked paprika, fresh thyme leaves, a pinch of sea salt, and a grind of black pepper.
3. Mix everything together vigorously until the ingredients are well incorporated and the mixture is relatively smooth.

Step 3: Stuff the Peppers

1. Using a small spoon or a piping bag, fill each pepper with the cheese mixture.
2. Be careful not to overstuff them; the filling should be level with the slit to prevent excessive overflowing during the grilling process.
3. Gently press the slit closed to seal the cheese inside as much as possible.

Step 4: Fire Up the Arteflame

1. Start a fire in your Arteflame grill and allow it to burn down until the center grate is hot and the outer flat cooktop (plancha) reaches a medium-high heat.
2. Lightly oil the flat cooktop with vegetable oil or olive oil to prevent sticking and ensure a good sear.

Step 5: Grill to Perfection

1. Brush the outside of the stuffed peppers with the olive oil and sprinkle lightly with salt.
2. Place the peppers on the flat cooktop, arranging them so the slit side is facing up initially to let the cheese warm through.
3. Grill for about 2-3 minutes per side, rotating them gently with tongs. You want the skins to blister and char slightly, and the cheese to become melty and hot.
4. Remove from the grill immediately once the peppers are tender and serve warm.

Tips for Success

Grilling stuffed vegetables requires a balance of heat and timing to ensure the filling melts without leaking out entirely. When using the Arteflame, utilize the different heat zones of the cooktop. Start the peppers closer to the center to get a quick sear on the skins, then move them toward the cooler outer edge to allow the cheese to melt thoroughly without burning the pepper flesh. It is also crucial to ensure your cream cheese is fully softened before mixing; this ensures a smooth binder that holds the crumbly Manchego together effectively. If you are worried about the peppers splitting open, you can secure them with a toothpick, just remember to remove it before serving. Finally, let the peppers rest for about two minutes after pulling them off the grill. This short window allows the filling to set slightly, preventing molten cheese burns and making them easier to eat.

Variations

While the classic combination of Manchego and smoked paprika is undeniably delicious, this recipe is incredibly versatile and can be adapted to suit various palates. You can easily shift the flavor profile by swapping the cheeses or adding proteins to the filling. The beauty of the Arteflame is that it handles diverse textures easily, so don't be afraid to experiment with chunkier fillings or different spice blends. Here are a few creative twists to try for your next cookout:

• The Carnivore: Mix in 1/4 cup of cooked, crumbled spicy chorizo into the cheese mixture for an extra savory kick.
• Herbed Goat Cheese: Substitute the Manchego and cream cheese with a blend of goat cheese, honey, and rosemary for a sweet and savory option.
• Spicy Kick: Add a finely chopped jalapeño or a teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the filling for some heat.
• Bacon Wrapped: Wrap each stuffed pepper in a half-slice of bacon before grilling for a crispy, salty exterior.
• Vegan Delight: Use dairy-free cream cheese and a vegan parmesan alternative, boosting the flavor with nutritional yeast and extra garlic.

Best Pairings

To create a truly authentic Spanish tapas experience, pairing these stuffed peppers with the right beverages and side dishes is essential. The smoky and salty profile of the dish calls for drinks that can cut through the richness of the cheese while complementing the char from the grill. A chilled glass of white Sangria with slices of citrus and apple is a classic choice that refreshes the palate. Alternatively, a dry Spanish white wine like Albariño or a light red Rioja works beautifully. For food pairings, serve these alongside a platter of serrano ham, marinated olives, and crusty grilled bread rubbed with tomato and garlic (Pan con Tomate). If you are serving this as a side dish rather than an appetizer, it pairs exceptionally well with grilled ribeye steaks or lamb chops, as the creamy peppers provide a nice contrast to the robust meat flavors.

Conclusion

Mastering these Grilled Spanish-Style Cheese-Stuffed Peppers on your Arteflame is a surefire way to elevate your outdoor cooking repertoire. They offer a sophisticated yet accessible option that moves beyond standard BBQ fare, bringing the vibrant flavors of Spain directly to your backyard. The combination of the smoky sear from the plancha and the rich, melting cheese creates a texture and taste experience that is hard to replicate with any other cooking method. Whether enjoyed as a solo snack, part of a larger tapas spread, or a side to a hearty steak, these peppers are bound to become a favorite. So, light up the grill, pour a glass of wine, and enjoy the simple pleasure of great food shared with friends and family. It is a recipe that invites conversation and celebration with every bite.