Everything Cream Cheese Stuffed Mini Bell Peppers

If you’re on the hunt for the ultimate quick and crowd-pleasing appetizer, look no further than these Everything Cream Cheese Stuffed Mini Bell Peppers. Bursting with tangy cream cheese, melty cheddar, and the savory crunch of everything bagel seasoning, these bite-sized snacks are as delicious as they are colorful. Whether served hot and gooey straight from the air fryer or cold and crunchy from the fridge, they never fail to impress. I whipped these up for a last-minute game night with friends, and they disappeared faster than I could set the tray down—seriously, they’re that good.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Key Benefits

• Quick and Easy: With just 35 minutes total, these are perfect for those last-minute gatherings or snack cravings.
• Only 4 Ingredients: Minimal shopping, maximum flavor.
• Great for Entertaining: They’re bite-sized, vibrant, and can be served hot or cold.
• Low Carb & Guilt-Free: These are naturally low-carb and low-calorie, making them a great light appetizer.

Taste & Texture

The flavor combo here is next-level. You get the mild sweetness and satisfying crunch of the mini peppers, the tangy smoothness of cream cheese, a melty hit from the cheddar, and that savory, garlicky kick from everything bagel seasoning. Serve them cold and crisp for a refreshing bite, or warm for a creamy, cheesy treat with slightly roasted pepper edges.

Dietary Attributes

• Low carb and gluten-free
• Vegetarian-friendly
• Can be made keto by using full-fat cream cheese and a low-carb cheese blend

Ingredients & Substitutions

Ingredient List

• 20 mini sweet peppers, halved and deseeded
• 8 oz whipped cream cheese
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ tablespoon everything bagel seasoning

Notes on Quality

Go for fresh, firm mini bell peppers—look for vibrant colors and glossy skin. Whipped cream cheese spreads easily and blends beautifully, but regular block cream cheese (softened) works in a pinch. Use sharp cheddar for a more intense flavor or go mild if you’re serving kids.

Possible Substitutions

• Cheese: Swap cheddar for Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack for extra kick.
• Cream Cheese: Use vegan cream cheese if you need a dairy-free option.
• Seasoning: Don’t have everything bagel seasoning? Mix sesame seeds, dried garlic, onion flakes, poppy seeds, and a pinch of salt.

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 350°F if serving hot.
• Slice the mini peppers in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes.
• In a mixing bowl, combine the whipped cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, and everything bagel seasoning. Mix until well blended.

• Using a butter knife or small spoon, carefully stuff each pepper half with the cream cheese mixture.
• Choose your serving style:
  • Cold: Sprinkle with extra everything bagel seasoning and serve immediately or refrigerate.
  • Hot (Oven Method): Place stuffed peppers on a baking sheet in a single layer and bake for 15 minutes or until cheese is bubbly and peppers are slightly softened.
  • Hot (Air Fryer Method): Air fry at 350°F for 3–5 minutes for a crisp, golden finish.

Expert Tips & Tricks

Best Practices

• Use whipped cream cheese for easier spreading and fluffier texture.
• Mix up the cheese blend for a flavor twist—try gouda, parmesan, or feta.
• Line your baking sheet with parchment for easy cleanup.

Common Mistakes

• Don’t overstuff the peppers—they’ll overflow and get messy when baked.
• If baking, avoid overcooking. You want the peppers to still hold their shape with a slight bite.

Time-Saving Tips

• Prep the peppers and filling in advance, then store separately until ready to assemble.
• Make a double batch and refrigerate extras for lunchboxes or snacks during the week.

Serving Suggestions

Pairings

These mini stuffed peppers are fabulous on a charcuterie board or as a side to grilled chicken, turkey sliders, or pasta salads. For a more indulgent spread, pair them with crispy bacon-wrapped dates or cheesy garlic bread.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the peppers by color on a white platter for a rainbow effect. Garnish with a sprinkle of green onions or parsley for added color and contrast.

Beverage Pairings

• Sparkling water with lemon or cucumber
• Dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc
• A light IPA or crisp pilsner
• For a non-alcoholic treat, try a cucumber mint mocktail

Storage & Reheating

Leftover Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. They actually hold up great and taste delicious cold straight from the fridge.

Reheating Methods

• Oven: Reheat at 350°F for 5–7 minutes.
• Air Fryer: Re-crisp at 350°F for 2–3 minutes.
• Microwave: 15–20 seconds per pepper, but note the texture may soften more than desired.

Frequently Asked Questions

Substitutions & Adjustments

Can I make these dairy-free?
Yes! Use vegan cream cheese and a plant-based shredded cheese.

Can I double this recipe?
Absolutely. It scales well and makes a great party platter.

Troubleshooting

The filling is too runny.
Try using block-style cream cheese and draining excess moisture from other ingredients.

Peppers are too soft after baking.
Bake for less time or use the air fryer for a crispier finish.

Variations & Customizations

Dietary Adaptations

• Vegan: Use plant-based cream cheese and vegan shredded cheese.
• Keto: Use full-fat dairy and be mindful of cheese blends with starch fillers.

Flavor Twists

• Add chopped jalapeños to the filling for a spicy kick
• Stir in crumbled bacon or diced olives
• Top with crushed nuts or seeds for crunch

Seasonal/Holiday Versions

• Use red and green peppers for Christmas party platters
• Try orange peppers for Halloween and serve with black olive spiders
• Pair with these Cupid Cupcakes for Valentine’s Day for a themed spread

Conclusion

Whether you’re entertaining guests, meal prepping, or just need a quick snack, these Everything Cream Cheese Stuffed Mini Bell Peppers are the colorful, crave-worthy bites you’ll keep coming back to. They’re simple, satisfying, and endlessly versatile. If you try them, I’d love to hear how it went! Drop a comment below or tag me in your pics on Pinterest at CookingWithCallie.

For more tasty ideas, check out these sweet treats that pair wonderfully with the savory notes of these peppers:

• Vegan Cherry Almond Brownies
• Red Velvet Sugar Cookies

I can’t wait to see what you whip up next!

Print