Introduction

These Keto Tuna Melt Poppers are a delightful low-carb snack that combines creamy tuna filling with sweet mini bell peppers and melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for a quick appetizer or a light meal, they’re easy to prepare and satisfying to eat.

Keto Tuna Melt Poppers Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients

12 mini bell peppers
12 oz can of tuna
2 tbsp mayo (or Greek yogurt)
3 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp garlic salt
1 tsp onion powder
Desired amount of cheddar cheese (approximately 3 slices)

Instructions

Step 1: In a medium bowl, combine the tuna, mayo or Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, garlic salt, and onion powder. Mix well until evenly blended.
Step 2: Slice off and discard the stem of each mini bell pepper. Cut the peppers in half lengthwise and remove any seeds inside.
Step 3: Place the pepper halves on a baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 15 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time.
Step 4: Remove the peppers from the oven and fill each half with the tuna mixture. Top with cheddar cheese and bake for an additional 5 to 7 minutes, or until the tuna is heated through and the cheese has melted.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce to the tuna mixture.
Substitute cheddar with mozzarella or pepper jack cheese for a different melt experience.
Use Greek yogurt instead of mayo for a lighter, tangier filling.
Serve the poppers with a side of fresh greens or a keto-friendly dipping sauce.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes or until warmed through to retain crispness and flavor. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular-sized bell peppers instead of mini ones?

While you can use regular bell peppers, the poppers may be larger and require longer baking times. Mini peppers work best for bite-sized portions and quicker cooking.

Is this recipe suitable for someone on a keto diet?

Yes, this recipe is keto-friendly as it is low in carbs and high in protein and fat, especially when using full-fat mayo and cheese.

Keto Tuna Melt Poppers Recipe

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4.6 from 94 reviews

These Keto Tuna Melt Poppers are a delicious low-carb snack featuring mini bell peppers stuffed with a savory mixture of tuna, creamy mayo, and dijon mustard, topped with melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for a quick appetizer or light meal, they combine the freshness of bell peppers with hearty tuna and gooey cheese, baked to perfection.

Author: Isabella
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 22 minutes
Total Time: 32 minutes
Yield: 12 stuffed pepper halves 1x
Category: Appetizer
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Low Carb

Ingredients

Scale

Peppers

12 mini bell peppers

Filling

12 oz can of tuna
2 tbsp mayo (or Greek yogurt)
3 tbsp dijon mustard
1 tsp garlic salt
1 tsp onion powder

Topping

Approximately 3 slices of cheddar cheese (desired amount)

Instructions

Prepare the filling: In a medium bowl, combine the tuna, Greek yogurt (or mayo), dijon mustard, garlic salt, and onion powder. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated to create a flavorful tuna filling.
Prepare the peppers: Slice off and discard the stem ends of each mini bell pepper. Then slice each pepper lengthwise in half. Remove any seeds or membranes inside to create hollow halves ready for stuffing.
Initial baking of peppers: Place the pepper halves on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven for approximately 15 minutes, flipping them halfway through the baking time to ensure even softening without browning too much.
Stuff and top with cheese: Remove the peppers from the oven and evenly fill each half with the prepared tuna mixture. Top each filled pepper with slices of cheddar cheese according to your preference.
Final baking: Return the stuffed peppers to the oven and bake for an additional 5 to 7 minutes, or until the tuna filling is heated through and the cheese has melted and started to bubble gently.

Notes

You can substitute Greek yogurt for mayo to reduce fat and add tanginess.
Customize the spices by adding paprika or chili flakes for a spicy kick.
Mini bell peppers come in assorted colors; using different colors makes this dish visually appealing.
Use sharp cheddar for a stronger cheese flavor, or try mozzarella for a milder, gooey topping.
These poppers can be served warm or at room temperature, making them ideal for parties or snacks.

Keywords: keto tuna melt, tuna poppers, low carb appetizers, stuffed mini bell peppers, baked tuna recipe