These Cream Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers are the perfect low-carb, colorful appetizer that combines creamy, cheesy goodness with a refreshing crunch. Made with just 4 simple ingredients, these bite-sized stuffed peppers can be served hot or cold, making them an incredibly versatile option for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a light snack or a fun appetizer for a party, these mini peppers will definitely hit the spot!
Why You’ll Love Cream Cheese Stuffed Peppers
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Easy-to-Make: This simple appetizer requires minimal effort – just halve, mix, stuff, and bake (or chill). It’s as easy as that!
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Budget-Friendly: With just 4 ingredients, this recipe is affordable without compromising on flavor or satisfaction.
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Healthy: These stuffed mini peppers are low-carb, gluten-free, and packed with vitamins and minerals from the peppers. They’re the perfect light appetizer or snack!
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Customizable: You can make this recipe your own by adding extra ingredients or swapping out flavors to fit your preferences. From bacon to whipped ricotta, the possibilities are endless!
Ingredients
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Mini Sweet Bell Peppers: These small peppers are sweet, crunchy, and perfect for stuffing.
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Whipped Cream Cheese: Provides a smooth, creamy texture. You can also use regular softened cream cheese if you prefer.
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Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Adds extra flavor and cheesiness to complement the cream cheese.
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Everything Bagel Seasoning: The star ingredient that ties everything together. It’s packed with poppy seeds, sesame seeds, garlic, onion, and salt for a savory, flavorful punch.
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
Step 1: Prepare Mini Sweet Peppers
Start by halving the mini sweet peppers. Cut them in half lengthwise and remove the seeds.
Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the whipped cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, and everything bagel seasoning. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined.
Step 3: Stuff the Peppers
Carefully stuff the cream cheese mixture into each pepper half. Spread the mixture evenly using a knife to ensure a smooth and even filling.
Step 4: Serve & Enjoy
Option 1 – Serve Cold: Top with an extra sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Option 2 – Serve Hot:
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Oven: Place the stuffed peppers on a baking sheet in a single layer and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted to your liking.
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Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and air fry for 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese has melted.
Serve hot and enjoy the cheesy, creamy, and crunchy goodness!
Servings and Timing
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Servings: 4-6 servings
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
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Cook Time: 15 minutes (if baking) or 3-5 minutes (if air frying)
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Total Time: 20 minutes
Optional Variations & Dietary Adaptations
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Dairy-Free: Swap the cream cheese for a dairy-free cream cheese alternative, and use a plant-based shredded cheese for a dairy-free version.
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Vegan: Use vegan cream cheese and vegan cheese to make this recipe fully plant-based.
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Different Cheese: If you’re not a fan of cheddar, feel free to swap it with pepper jack, mozzarella, or even goat cheese for a unique twist.
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Add Bacon: For a savory touch, add crispy crumbled bacon to the cream cheese mixture.
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Fresh Herbs: Add fresh parsley, dill, or chives to the mixture for a burst of fresh flavor.
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Spicy: Add a bit of hot sauce or a sprinkle of chili flakes to the cream cheese filling for a spicy kick!
Expert Tips
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Whipped Cream Cheese: Whipped cream cheese gives a light and airy texture, making the filling even creamier. It’s also a lower-calorie option compared to regular cream cheese.
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Use a Piping Bag: For a cleaner presentation, you can use a piping bag to stuff the peppers. This is especially helpful if you’re serving them at a party or event.
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Pat Peppers Dry: Before stuffing the peppers, make sure they are dry to prevent any excess moisture that could make the filling soggy.
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Season to Taste: You can adjust the amount of everything bagel seasoning to your liking, adding more for extra flavor or less if you prefer a milder taste.
Serving Suggestions
These Cream Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers are perfect for a variety of occasions:
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Party Appetizer: They’re great for game day, baby showers, or holiday parties. Serve them as a crunchy, cheesy appetizer to impress your guests.
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Afternoon Snack: Perfect for a quick and satisfying snack, especially if you need a low-carb option.
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Lunchbox Addition: Pack them in your lunchbox for a nutritious and fun snack at school or work.
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Charcuterie Board: Add them to a charcuterie or appetizer platter for a colorful and flavorful touch.
Storage Instructions
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Refrigeration: Store any leftover stuffed mini peppers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
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Make-Ahead: You can prepare the peppers up to the point of baking and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. Just bake them when needed.
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Freezing: Stuffed peppers can be frozen before baking. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to cook, bake directly from frozen.
FAQs
What is the difference between baby bell peppers and mini sweet peppers?
Mini sweet peppers are smaller, sweeter, and often more vibrant than regular bell peppers. They’re perfect for snacking or stuffing, and their small size makes them ideal for appetizers.
Can I use regular-sized bell peppers?
While you can use regular bell peppers, mini sweet peppers are the perfect size for stuffing. If using larger peppers, you may need to adjust the cooking time.
Can I make these stuffed peppers ahead of time?
Yes! You can prep them ahead of time and either bake or refrigerate until you’re ready to cook. This makes them a great option for meal prepping or party planning.
Are these peppers served hot or cold?
These stuffed peppers can be served both hot and cold! Hot peppers are melty and gooey, while cold peppers are crunchy and refreshing. Either way, they’re delicious!
Conclusion
Cream Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers are the ultimate easy-to-make appetizer or snack that everyone will love. With their creamy filling, crunchy peppers, and savory bagel seasoning, they’re sure to be a hit at any gathering. Whether you serve them hot or cold, these bite-sized treats are always a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy them as a quick snack, a party appetizer, or a fun addition to your next meal!
Print
Healthy Cream Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
Looking for a fun and healthy appetizer? Try these Cream Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers! Filled with a rich, creamy mixture of whipped cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and everything bagel seasoning, these bite-sized peppers are low carb, gluten-free, and perfect for any gathering. Served hot or cold, they are simple to make, versatile, and absolutely delicious. Ready in just a few minutes, they are the perfect snack or party appetizer that everyone will love!
Ingredients
20 mini sweet peppers
8 oz whipped cream cheese
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ tbsp everything bagel seasoning
Instructions
Prepare the Peppers:
Slice the mini sweet peppers in half lengthwise and remove the seeds carefully. Set aside.
Make the Cream Cheese Filling:
In a mixing bowl, combine the whipped cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, and everything bagel seasoning. Stir well until fully mixed.
Stuff the Peppers:
Carefully fill each halved pepper with the cream cheese mixture. Use a knife to evenly spread the mixture inside the peppers.
Serve & Enjoy:
Option 1: Serve Cold: Sprinkle with a little more everything bagel seasoning and enjoy immediately.
Option 2: Serve Hot:
Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the stuffed peppers on a baking sheet and bake for about 15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Air fry the stuffed peppers for 3-5 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden.
Serve:
Whether hot or cold, these stuffed mini peppers are a crowd-pleasing appetizer or snack! Enjoy with a side of veggies, chips, or crackers.
Notes
Optional Variations & Dietary Adaptations:
Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cream cheese and shredded cheese alternatives.
Add Protein: Stir in some cooked ground chicken, turkey, or crumbled bacon into the cream cheese filling for a heartier bite.
Spicy: Add a few dashes of hot sauce or jalapeño slices into the cream cheese filling for extra heat.
Vegan: Swap the cream cheese for vegan cream cheese and use plant-based shredded cheese for a vegan-friendly option.
Expert Tips:
Whipped Cream Cheese: Using whipped cream cheese makes the filling extra smooth and creamy. If you can’t find whipped, regular softened cream cheese will also work.
Air Fryer Tip: The air fryer method is quicker and gives the peppers a nice crispy finish. Make sure to not overcrowd the basket to ensure even cooking.
Pepper Prep: Be sure to remove all the seeds and membranes from the peppers to make them easier to stuff and to avoid a bitter taste.
Garnish: For added flavor, top with freshly chopped herbs like parsley or chives before serving.
Storage Instructions:
Leftovers: Store any leftover stuffed peppers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Reheat in the oven or air fryer at 350°F for a few minutes until the cheese is warm and bubbly.
FAQs:
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the peppers and stuff them up to a day in advance. Keep them covered in the fridge until you’re ready to bake or serve them.
Are mini sweet peppers the same as baby bell peppers?
Yes, mini sweet peppers and baby bell peppers are similar. They are smaller, sweeter, and perfect for stuffing, while bell peppers are typically used for larger, heartier recipes.
Can I freeze stuffed mini peppers?
Yes, you can freeze the stuffed peppers before baking. Place them on a baking sheet in a single layer, freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag. Bake from frozen at 350°F for 20-25 minutes when ready to serve.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes (if baking) or 3-5 minutes (if air frying)
