In This Recipe
Are you constantly searching for healthy snack ideas that don’t compromise on taste? Looking for a protein-packed finger food that’s both colorful and satisfying? Our 5-minute Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers recipe might be exactly what you need! These vibrant little bites combine the sweet crunch of mini bell peppers with creamy, protein-rich cheese filling to create the perfect office snacks or healthy party appetizers.
Ingredients
- 12 mini sweet peppers (red, orange, and yellow)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
- 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt (adds extra protein)
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Pinch of salt (optional)
Substitutions:
- For lower fat: Use light cream cheese and reduced-fat cheddar
- For extra protein: Add 2 tablespoons of hemp seeds to the filling
- Dairy-free option: Substitute with plant-based cream cheese and vegan shredded cheese
Timing
- Prep Time: 4 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 minute (optional broiling)
- Total Time: 5 minutes
This recipe saves you at least 15 minutes compared to traditional stuffed pepper recipes that require baking, making it perfect for low cholesterol snacks on the go or quick healthy girls night snacks.
Step 1: Prepare the Peppers
Cut each mini pepper in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes. Pro tip: Leave the stems intact for easier handling when eating these vegetables as snacks.
Step 2: Mix the Filling
In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheese, Greek yogurt, chives, garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper. Mix until smooth and well-incorporated. For extra creaminess, use room-temperature ingredients.
Step 3: Fill the Peppers
Using a small spoon or piping bag, fill each pepper half with the cheese mixture. Don’t overfill – about 1-2 teaspoons per pepper half is perfect. The slight curve of the peppers creates natural vessels for the filling.
Step 4: Serve or Broil (Optional)
These can be enjoyed immediately as a no-cook protein finger food, or for a more melty texture, place under the broiler for 1 minute until the cheese starts to bubble and brown slightly.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (3 stuffed pepper halves):
- Calories: 165
- Protein: 7g
- Carbs: 4g (2g fiber)
- Fat: 14g
- Vitamins: A, C, B6, and K
- Calcium: 15% of daily value
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
- For Zepbound food ideas: Reduce cheese by half and add pureed white beans for creaminess with fewer calories
- For keto/low-carb: Use full-fat cheese and add crumbled bacon bits
- For added nutrition: Mix in 2 tablespoons of finely chopped spinach or kale
- For Mediterranean twist: Add olives and sun-dried tomatoes to the cheese mixture
Serving Suggestions
Arrange these colorful bites on a wooden platter with fresh herbs scattered around for an impressive appetizer that’s perfect for party snacks healthy enough for everyone. For a complete grocery list ideas snacks spread, pair with:
- Fresh cucumber slices
- Whole grain crackers
- Spicy salsa for dipping
- Sparkling water with citrus for a refreshing beverage
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using cold cheese: Allow cream cheese to fully soften for a smooth filling
- Cutting peppers unevenly: Make sure halves are similar sizes for even presentation
- Under-seasoning: The mild peppers need well-seasoned filling for flavor balance
- Overstuffing: This can cause the filling to spill out when eating
Storing Tips for the Recipe
These Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For meal prep, prepare the filling and peppers separately, then assemble just before serving. They do not freeze well due to the texture changes in the peppers.
Conclusion
These 5-minute Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers prove that healthy snack ideas adults love don’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. With the perfect balance of protein, fresh vegetables, and satisfying cheese, they’re versatile enough for any occasion – from office snacks ideas to elegant appetizers. Try making a batch today and watch them disappear!
FAQs
- Can I make these ahead for a party?
Yes! Prepare them up to 24 hours ahead and store covered in the refrigerator. For best results, bring to room temperature for 15 minutes before serving. - Are these keto-friendly?
Absolutely! With just 2g net carbs per serving, they’re perfect for keto dieters looking for protein finger foods. - How can I make these spicy?
Add 1-2 teaspoons of finely chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese mixture for a kick. - Can I use bell peppers instead of mini peppers?
Yes, though you’ll want to cut regular bell peppers into 2-inch squares or strips rather than halves due to their larger size.