Ingredients:

  • 12 large Banana Chillies
  • 1 tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil
  • 1 lb Italian sausage, browned and drained
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
  2. Cook 1 lb Italian sausage in a skillet until deeply browned and crumbly.
  3. Pour off the excess grease.
  4. Combine the hot sausage with 4 oz cream cheese, 1/2 cup cheddar, minced garlic, and 1 tsp smoked paprika.
  5. Slice a T shape at the top of 12 Banana Chillies and one long slit down the side.
  6. Use a small spoon to scrape out all seeds and white pith.
  7. Spoon about 2-3 tablespoons of filling into each pepper until plump but not bursting.
  8. Brush the outside of each pepper with 1 tbsp olive oil.
  9. Place on the tray and bake 25 minutes until skins are blistered and cheese is bubbling.
  10. Let them sit for 5 minutes so the filling sets up.