If you’re looking for a quick snack, meal prep idea, or a party appetizer that everyone (low-carb or not) will devour, these poppers are it. They’re made with a dreamy filling of cream cheese, ranch seasoning, shredded cheese, and turkey or beef bacon, then stuffed into sweet mini peppers and baked until melty and golden.
The best part? You don’t have to fry anything, and they’re naturally gluten-free and keto-friendly.
Why You’ll Love These
- Low carb & keto-friendly – Only ~2g net carbs per popper!
- Quick & easy – 20 minutes, one bowl, no fuss.
- Super customizable – Swap the cheese, add spice, use your fave ranch.
- Perfect for parties – Crowd-pleasing flavor and bite-size fun.
- Meal prep friendly – Bake ahead and reheat when needed.
Prep Time and Servings
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Bake Time: 10–12 minutes
- Total Time: 20–25 minutes
- Servings: Makes 20 poppers (about 4–5 per person)
- Calories per popper: ~65
- Net carbs: ~2g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 5g
Ingredients
- 10 mini bell peppers, halved and deseeded
- 6 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (or Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, etc.)
- 3 tablespoons ranch seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- 4 slices cooked turkey or beef bacon, chopped
- 2 tablespoons green onions or chives, chopped (optional)
Ingredient Tips:
- Use block cream cheese for best texture.
- Turkey or beef bacon keeps it halal and crispy.
- Homemade ranch seasoning? YES. Mix garlic powder, onion powder, dried dill, parsley, chives, and salt.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat and Prep
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
- Cut mini bell peppers in half lengthwise and remove seeds.
2. Mix the Filling
- In a medium bowl, mix together:
- Cream cheese
- Shredded cheese
- Ranch seasoning
- Chopped cooked bacon
- Green onions (if using)
- Mix until creamy and well combined.
Want extra tang? Add a spoonful of sour cream or a splash of hot sauce.
3. Stuff the Peppers
- Spoon the cream cheese mixture into each bell pepper half.
- Use the back of the spoon or a piping bag for neat filling.
- Place stuffed peppers on the baking sheet.
4. Bake
- Bake for 10–12 minutes, until the peppers are tender and the tops are golden and bubbly.
- Optional: broil for 1–2 minutes at the end for a toasty top.
5. Serve!
- Let cool for a minute or two before serving.
- Garnish with more chopped green onions or a sprinkle of paprika if desired.
How to Serve
These poppers are perfect for:
- Game day snacks
- Low-carb party appetizers
- Afternoon snack trays
- Meal prep lunches (pack a few with boiled eggs or salad)
- Side dish for grilled meats or burgers
Bonus idea: Serve with a side of ranch or spicy mayo for dipping!
Tips for Poppin’ Success
- Soften cream cheese first – Makes it easier to mix and stuff.
- Don’t overbake – You want the peppers tender but still with a slight crunch.
- Add crunch – Sprinkle crushed nuts or keto breadcrumbs on top before baking.
- Customize it – Try with buffalo sauce, chopped jalapeños, or even a little shredded chicken.
- Make ahead – Assemble the peppers, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.
Recipe Variations
- Buffalo Style – Add a splash of buffalo sauce and blue cheese crumbles.
- Spicy Jalapeño Popper Remix – Mix in chopped jalapeños for heat.
- Southwest – Use taco seasoning instead of ranch and add black beans or corn (if not strictly low-carb).
- Vegan Version – Use plant-based cream cheese, vegan ranch, and dairy-free shredded cheese.
- Deli Meat Version – Mix in chopped halal turkey slices or leftover chicken.
Storage & Reheating
Store:
- Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheat:
- Reheat in the oven or air fryer at 350°F for 5–6 minutes.
- Microwave works too, but the peppers will soften more.
Freeze:
- Not recommended—the texture of the peppers changes a lot when thawed.
FAQ
Are mini bell peppers spicy?
Nope! They’re sweet and super mild—perfect for kids and spice-sensitive eaters.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Prep and fill them, then refrigerate unbaked. Pop them in the oven when ready.
What if I don’t have mini peppers?
Slice large bell peppers into wide strips and fill like boats—same deliciousness!
Is ranch seasoning keto/low-carb?
Store-bought varies—check the label or make your own to control the ingredients.
Can I air fry these?
Absolutely! Air fry at 375°F for 8–10 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Conclusion
These Low Carb Bacon Ranch Bell Pepper Poppers are everything you love in a bite-sized snack—cheesy, creamy, smoky, and totally addictive. They’re low in carbs, big in flavor, and ready in no time.
Whether you’re hosting a party, meal prepping your snacks, or just want something crave-worthy and keto-friendly, these poppers are about to become your go-to.
Tag me when you make them—I need to see your cheesy pepper creations!
Print
Low Carb Bacon Ranch Bell Pepper Poppers
- Total Time: 35 min
Description
These Low Carb Bacon Ranch Bell Pepper Poppers are a delicious, guilt-free snack or appetizer! Crisp bell peppers are stuffed with a creamy ranch mixture, topped with crispy bacon, and baked to perfection. They’re low-carb, full of flavor, and perfect for anyone craving a tasty, healthier alternative to traditional poppers.
Ingredients
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4 large bell peppers (any color), halved and seeds removed
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6 oz cream cheese, softened
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¼ cup sour cream
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2 tbsp ranch seasoning mix (or homemade ranch seasoning)
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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½ cup cooked bacon, crumbled (about 4–5 slices)
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2 tbsp chopped green onions (optional)
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Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2️⃣ Prepare the peppers: Slice the bell peppers in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes. Arrange them cut-side up on the prepared baking sheet.
3️⃣ Make the filling: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, ranch seasoning, shredded cheddar cheese, and crumbled bacon. Stir well to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4️⃣ Stuff the peppers: Spoon the bacon ranch mixture into each bell pepper half, spreading it evenly.
5️⃣ Bake: Place the stuffed bell peppers in the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the filling is golden and bubbly.
6️⃣ Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven and sprinkle with chopped green onions (if using). Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
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Bell Pepper Tip: Use any color of bell pepper, but red, yellow, or orange tend to have a sweeter flavor.
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Bacon: Make sure to use crispy bacon for the best texture and flavor. You can also use turkey bacon as a lighter option.
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Cheese Swap: Try using mozzarella, pepper jack, or even cream cheese with herbs for different flavor profiles.
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Make-Ahead: You can prepare the filling ahead of time and stuff the peppers just before baking.
- Prep Time: 10 min
- Cook Time: 25 min