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Creamy Stuffed Cherry Tomatoes – Easy Herbed Cheese Appetizer

creamy stuffed cherry tomatoes - featured image

These creamy stuffed cherry tomatoes are filled with a dreamy herbed cheese mixture, making them a quick, crowd-pleasing appetizer perfect for parties, brunches, or healthy snacking. Juicy cherry tomatoes cradle a tangy, fluffy cheese filling flecked with fresh herbs and lemon zest.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 1/2 pounds cherry tomatoes (about 3 cups), ripe but firm
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 4 ounces ricotta cheese (whole milk or part-skim)
  • 2 tablespoons sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh chives, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (optional)
  • 1 small garlic clove, grated or minced
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (or to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • Extra chopped herbs (parsley, dill, or chives), for garnish (optional)
  • Paprika, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Rinse cherry tomatoes under cool water and pat dry. Using a sharp paring knife, slice off the top (stem end) of each tomato to create a small opening.
  2. Use a small spoon, melon baller, or 1/4 teaspoon to gently scoop out the seeds and pulp from each tomato. Be careful not to pierce the sides or bottom.
  3. If tomatoes are juicy, flip them upside down on a paper towel-lined plate to drain while you prepare the filling.
  4. In a medium mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, ricotta cheese, and sour cream. Mix with a hand mixer on low speed (or use a fork) until smooth and creamy.
  5. Add chopped parsley, chives, dill (if using), garlic, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Mix until fully combined and fluffy. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  6. Transfer the cheese filling to a piping bag or zip-top bag with the corner snipped off. Pipe a small amount into each hollowed tomato, filling to the top. Alternatively, use a small spoon to fill each tomato.
  7. Arrange stuffed tomatoes on a serving platter. Sprinkle with extra chopped herbs and paprika, if desired.
  8. Chill for at least 15 minutes before serving to help flavors meld and keep the filling firm.

Notes

Choose firm, ripe cherry tomatoes for best results. Dry tomatoes well after scooping to prevent soggy filling. Filling can be made a day ahead; stuff tomatoes just before serving. For vegan or dairy-free, use plant-based cheeses. Slice a tiny bit off the bottom of each tomato to help them stand upright. Chill before serving for best texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: stuffed cherry tomatoes, herbed cheese appetizer, party snacks, gluten-free, vegetarian, easy appetizer, finger food, summer recipes, brunch, potluck