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

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.
257
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American

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.
Keyword Bell Pepper Poppers
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