Bell Pepper Poppers: A Crunchy, Creamy, and Flavorful Snack
Bell Pepper Poppers are the perfect combination of creamy, cheesy, and crunchy, making them a fantastic appetizer, snack, or side dish. They are easy to make, healthier than traditional poppers, and packed with flavor.

Made with mini bell peppers stuffed with a rich, cheesy filling and baked to perfection, these poppers are crunchy on the outside, creamy on the inside, and perfect for game nights, gatherings, or a fun family snack.
Why You’ll Love Bell Pepper Poppers
🌶 A Mild, Kid-Friendly Alternative to Jalapeño Poppers
Bell peppers provide the perfect crunch without the spice, making them great for all ages.
🧀 Creamy, Cheesy, and Flavorful
The filling combines cream cheese, cheddar, and seasonings, creating a rich and creamy texture in every bite.
🕒 Quick and Easy to Make
With minimal prep and just 20 minutes of baking time, these poppers are ready in no time.
🥗 A Healthier Snack Option
Bell peppers are packed with vitamins and antioxidants, making these poppers a lighter alternative to deep-fried appetizers.
Ingredients for Bell Pepper Poppers
For the Poppers:
- 10-12 mini bell peppers, halved and seeds removed
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/4 cup cooked bacon bits (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley or chives, chopped
For the Topping (Optional):
- 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
Instructions for Bell Pepper Poppers

1️⃣ Prepare the Bell Peppers
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice the mini bell peppers in half lengthwise and remove the seeds.
- Arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
2️⃣ Make the Creamy Filling
- In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, bacon bits (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper.
- Mix until smooth and well combined.
3️⃣ Stuff the Peppers
- Spoon the filling into each bell pepper half, spreading evenly.
4️⃣ Add the Topping (Optional)
- If you prefer a crispy finish, mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle on top of the stuffed peppers.
5️⃣ Bake the Poppers
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6️⃣ Garnish and Serve
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley or chives before serving.
- Serve warm with ranch dressing, sour cream, or a spicy dipping sauce.
Tips for the Best Bell Pepper Poppers
🌟 Use Mini Bell Peppers for the Perfect Bite
Mini bell peppers are naturally sweet and crunchy, making them ideal for poppers.
🔥 Add a Spicy Kick
If you like heat, mix in chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes into the filling.
🧀 Experiment with Cheese
Try Pepper Jack, Swiss, or goat cheese for a unique flavor twist.
🥓 Make It Meatier
Add shredded chicken or crumbled sausage for extra protein.
How to Serve Bell Pepper Poppers
🍽 As an Appetizer
Serve with ranch dressing, guacamole, or a spicy dipping sauce.
🥗 With a Salad
Pair with a fresh garden salad or coleslaw for a balanced meal.
🍖 As a Side Dish
Enjoy alongside grilled meats, burgers, or BBQ dishes.
Variations to Try
🧄 Garlic Herb Poppers: Add roasted garlic and fresh herbs for extra flavor.
🌮 Tex-Mex Style: Mix in taco seasoning and black beans, and top with sour cream.
🧀 Buffalo Ranch Poppers: Toss the filling with Buffalo sauce and ranch seasoning for a spicy twist.
🥑 Keto-Friendly Poppers: Skip the breadcrumbs and use more cheese or crushed pork rinds for a low-carb version.

Bell Pepper Poppers
Ingredients
- 10-12 mini bell peppers halved and seeds removed
- 1 cup cream cheese softened
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese grated
- 1/4 cup cooked bacon bits optional
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley or chives chopped
- 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
Instructions
- Set the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Slice the mini bell peppers in half lengthwise and remove the seeds.
- Arrange them on the prepared baking sheet.
- In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, bacon bits (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper.
- Stir until smooth and well mixed.
- Spoon the filling into each bell pepper half, spreading evenly.
- Mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle on top of the stuffed peppers for a crispy texture.
- Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley or chives before serving.
- Serve warm with ranch dressing, sour cream, or a spicy dipping sauce.