Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe offers a unique spin on classic stuffed peppers, pairing the creamy richness of cream cheese with the bold, garlicky flavor of everything bagel seasoning. The mini peppers add a refreshing crunch, making them the perfect vehicle for the savory filling. They’re simple to prepare, and the bite-sized nature makes them ideal for gatherings or as a snack that everyone can enjoy. It’s a delicious combination of creamy, crunchy, and flavorful all in one bite!
Ingredients
- 8-10 mini sweet peppers (or regular bell peppers, halved)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons sour cream (optional for extra creaminess)
- 1-2 tablespoons everything bagel seasoning
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Prepare the Peppers: Wash and dry the mini sweet peppers (or bell peppers). Slice them in half lengthwise and remove the seeds. If using bell peppers, you can also cut them into smaller bite-sized pieces.
- Make the Cream Cheese Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and sour cream (if using). Stir in 1-2 tablespoons of everything bagel seasoning, depending on how bold you want the flavor. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. For extra flavor, mix in some chopped fresh chives.
- Stuff the Peppers: Using a spoon or piping bag, fill each pepper half with the cream cheese mixture. Make sure each one is generously stuffed.
- Chill: For best flavor, refrigerate the stuffed peppers for at least 20-30 minutes to let the filling firm up and allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve: Serve the Everything Bagel Cream Cheese Peppers chilled or at room temperature as a tasty appetizer or snack.
Servings and Timing
This recipe makes about 20-25 stuffed peppers, depending on the size of the peppers.
- Prep Time: 10-15 minutes
- Chilling Time: 20-30 minutes
- Total Time: 40-45 minutes
Variations
- Add Bacon: For an extra savory touch, top the cream cheese filling with crumbled crispy bacon before serving.
- Spicy Version: Mix in a bit of hot sauce or finely chopped jalapeños to the cream cheese filling for a spicy kick.
- Herbed Version: Experiment with different herbs, such as dill, parsley, or thyme, to complement the cream cheese filling.
- Smoked Salmon: Add a slice of smoked salmon on top of each stuffed pepper for a luxurious twist, perfect for brunch or special occasions.
- Vegan Version: Use dairy-free cream cheese and sour cream to make this recipe vegan-friendly.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftover stuffed peppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. They are best served chilled.
- Reheating: This dish is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature. Reheating is not recommended, as the cream cheese filling may lose its creamy texture.
FAQs
1. Can I use regular cream cheese instead of low-fat?
Yes, you can use regular cream cheese for a richer, creamier filling. Low-fat cream cheese works well too if you prefer a lighter version.
2. Can I make Everything Bagel Cream Cheese Peppers ahead of time?
Yes! These peppers can be made ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 2-3 days. Just be sure to chill them long enough for the flavors to meld together.
3. Can I use larger bell peppers instead of mini sweet peppers?
Absolutely! If you use larger bell peppers, you can cut them into smaller pieces to make bite-sized servings, or slice them into halves or quarters.
4. How spicy are Everything Bagel Cream Cheese Peppers?
The level of spiciness depends on the everything bagel seasoning you use and the choice of peppers. Mini sweet peppers are mild, but if you want more heat, add a bit of hot sauce or chopped jalapeños to the cream cheese mixture.
5. Can I use a different seasoning blend?
Yes! You can substitute the everything bagel seasoning with other seasoning blends like ranch seasoning, garlic herb seasoning, or even smoked paprika for a different flavor profile.
6. Can I make these without sour cream?
Yes, the sour cream is optional, but it adds extra creaminess to the filling. You can omit it or substitute with Greek yogurt for a tangier flavor.
7. Are these peppers gluten-free?
Yes, Everything Bagel Cream Cheese Peppers are naturally gluten-free, as long as the everything bagel seasoning you use is gluten-free.
8. Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can use vegan cream cheese and sour cream to make this recipe completely plant-based.
9. Can I serve these at room temperature?
Yes, these peppers are delicious when served cold or at room temperature, making them ideal for parties or gatherings.
10. How do I store leftovers?
Leftover stuffed peppers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. They are best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature.
Conclusion
Everything Bagel Cream Cheese Peppers are a flavorful, easy-to-make appetizer that brings together the savory taste of everything bagel seasoning with the creamy richness of cream cheese. The combination of crisp peppers and creamy filling creates the perfect bite-sized snack or party dish. Whether you’re serving them as a light snack, party appetizer, or topping for your favorite dish, these peppers are sure to impress with their bold, savory flavors and satisfying crunch!
PrintEverything Bagel Cream Cheese Peppers
Everything Bagel Cream Cheese Peppers are a savory, bite-sized treat combining creamy cream cheese, everything bagel seasoning, and fresh mini peppers. Perfect for snacking, appetizers, or party snacks.
- Prep Time: 10-15 minutes
- Cook Time: undefined
- Total Time: 40-45 minutes
- Yield: 20-25 stuffed peppers
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Mixing, Chilling
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 8-10 mini sweet peppers (or regular bell peppers, halved)
8 oz cream cheese, softened
2 tablespoons sour cream (optional for extra creaminess)
1–2 tablespoons everything bagel seasoning
1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Prepare the Peppers: Wash and dry the mini sweet peppers (or bell peppers). Slice them in half lengthwise and remove the seeds. If using bell peppers, cut them into smaller bite-sized pieces.
- Make the Cream Cheese Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and sour cream (if using). Stir in 1-2 tablespoons of everything bagel seasoning, depending on how bold you want the flavor. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. For extra flavor, mix in some chopped fresh chives.
- Stuff the Peppers: Using a spoon or piping bag, fill each pepper half with the cream cheese mixture. Make sure each one is generously stuffed.
- Chill: Refrigerate the stuffed peppers for at least 20-30 minutes to let the filling firm up and the flavors meld together.
- Serve: Serve the Everything Bagel Cream Cheese Peppers chilled or at room temperature as a tasty appetizer or snack.
Notes
- If you prefer a spicier version, add finely chopped jalapeños or chili flakes.
- For a creamier filling, consider adding diced avocado.
- These peppers are best served chilled but can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed pepper
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 20mg