Tuna Melt Poppers are a fun and tasty snack! They pack a punch with creamy tuna and melty cheese, all stuffed inside crispy bites. Perfect for sharing or enjoying solo!
These little morsels are so easy to make and always a hit at parties. I love to serve them with a side of tangy dipping sauce—trust me, you won’t be able to stop eating them! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Red Bell Peppers: These make perfect little boats for the creamy tuna. If you can’t find red peppers, yellow or green peppers work too, but they may have a slightly different taste.
Tuna: I love using canned tuna for convenience, but fresh cooked tuna would also be delicious. You can substitute with canned chicken or chickpeas for a variation that’s still hearty.
Mayonnaise: This adds creaminess, but Greek yogurt is a healthy swap. You could also use vegan mayo for a plant-based option.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar brings great flavor, but feel free to use mozzarella or pepper jack if you want a milder taste or some spice. For a dairy-free option, try a vegan cheese substitute.
How Do I Ensure My Tuna Melt Poppers Are Perfect?
For the best Tuna Melt Poppers, focus on a few key techniques.
- Prep your bell peppers by slicing them evenly in half and removing seeds. This makes for a sturdy base.
- Mix your tuna filling well to ensure every bite is packed with flavor.
- Don’t skimp on cheese! A generous sprinkle on top will give a lovely gooey finish.
- Keep an eye on the bake time. You want the cheese bubbling and slightly golden, so check them around the 12-minute mark.
Let them cool for a couple of minutes after baking. This will make them easier to handle and help the flavors to settle. Happy cooking!
Tuna Melt Poppers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Poppers:
- 2 medium red bell peppers, halved and seeded
- 1 can (5 oz) tuna in water, drained and flaked
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup finely diced celery
- 2 tbsp finely chopped onion
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: dipping sauce such as ranch or aioli
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 15 minutes to bake, so you’ll have these tasty Tuna Melt Poppers ready in about 25 minutes total! Perfect for a quick snack or appetizer.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Oven and Peppers:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that’s heating up, wash the red bell peppers. Carefully slice them in half from top to bottom and remove the seeds and membranes. You want them to be nice little boats for the filling!
2. Making the Tuna Filling:
In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the drained tuna, mayonnaise, diced celery, chopped onion, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well combined and creamy. This will be the delicious filling for your poppers!
3. Assembling the Poppers:
Take the tuna mixture and spoon it generously into each half of the red peppers, filling them up nicely. After that, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of each stuffed pepper. Make them look cheesy and inviting!
4. Baking the Poppers:
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking. Place the prepared bell pepper halves on the baking sheet and pop them into the preheated oven. Bake for about 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and just starting to turn golden brown.
5. Finishing Touches:
Once they’re out of the oven, let the Tuna Melt Poppers cool for a few minutes. This will help set the filling and make them easier to handle. Right before serving, sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley on top for a nice color and flavor boost!
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Enjoy these warm Tuna Melt Poppers as a delicious appetizer or snack. If you like, serve them with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch or garlic aioli. They’re guaranteed to be a hit!
Happy cooking!
Can I Use Different Types of Peppers?
Absolutely! While red bell peppers are sweet and vibrant, you can also use green, yellow, or orange bell peppers. Each will bring its unique flavor, so feel free to experiment!
How Can I Make These Poppers Healthier?
To lighten them up, consider using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. You can also add more veggies like diced carrots or zucchini for extra nutrition. Just make sure the filling remains moist!
Can I Prepare the Filling Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Make the tuna mixture a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Just fill the peppers and bake them right before serving for a fresh taste!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving to enjoy that melty cheese again!