When you’re craving nachos but want something a little lighter and fresher, these Bell Pepper Nachos are the answer! Imagine crispy, savory nachos piled high with all your favorite toppings—except the nacho chips are replaced with crunchy bell pepper slices. It’s the perfect way to indulge without the guilt. Whether you’re snacking, meal-prepping, or looking for a fun appetizer, these nachos are as vibrant as they are tasty. Trust me, you’re going to love these!
Why You’ll Love Bell Pepper Nachos
This recipe is a total game-changer for nacho lovers who want something different and healthier. Here’s why these Bell Pepper Nachos will be your new go-to:
Light & Crunchy: The bell pepper slices provide a fresh, crunchy base that holds up perfectly under all those toppings, giving you that satisfying nacho texture without the heaviness.
Packed with Flavor: From the melted cheese to the zesty toppings, every bite is a burst of flavor. You can make them as simple or as loaded as you like!
Low-Carb & Gluten-Free: These nachos are perfect for anyone on a low-carb or gluten-free diet, making them an easy swap from traditional tortilla chips.
Customizable: You can top these nachos with all your favorite ingredients—think salsa, guacamole, jalapeños, or even a little sour cream. The possibilities are endless!
Ingredients
These nachos come together with just a few simple ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:
Bell Peppers: The main ingredient! You’ll need a variety of colors (red, green, yellow) for the most vibrant and flavorful base.
Shredded Cheese: Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend of your favorites. The cheese melts perfectly over the bell peppers, creating that classic nacho texture.
Black Beans: Adds a hearty, protein-packed element that makes these nachos even more satisfying.
Ground Beef (optional): If you want to take these nachos to the next level, ground beef is a great addition. You can also use ground turkey for a lighter version.
Jalapeños: For a bit of heat! These give the nachos that spicy kick you love.
Sour Cream (optional): A cool, creamy topping that pairs perfectly with the spiciness of the jalapeños.
Toppings (optional): Salsa, guacamole, cilantro, or green onions for extra flavor and freshness.
(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Here’s how to make these easy Bell Pepper Nachos:
Prepare the Bell Peppers: Slice the bell peppers into wide strips or rings, discarding the seeds and membranes. You want them to be large enough to hold your toppings, but still bite-sized.
Cook the Ground Beef (Optional): If you’re adding meat, brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Season with taco seasoning (or a mix of cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder). Once cooked, set aside.
Assemble the Nachos: Lay the bell pepper slices on a baking sheet in a single layer. Sprinkle with a generous amount of shredded cheese, then top with black beans, cooked ground beef, and jalapeños.
Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Add the Toppings: Once the nachos are out of the oven, add your favorite toppings like salsa, guacamole, sour cream, and cilantro.
Serve and Enjoy: Serve the Bell Pepper Nachos immediately and enjoy the crispy, cheesy, flavorful bites!
How to Serve Bell Pepper Nachos
These nachos are perfect as an appetizer or snack, but they also work well as a light meal. Here are a few ideas for serving:
As a Snack: Serve them at a party or as a quick afternoon snack. You can even set up a nacho bar with all your favorite toppings!
With a Side Salad: Pair these nachos with a simple salad to make a light, balanced meal.
For Game Day: These Bell Pepper Nachos are the perfect addition to your game day spread. No one will miss the traditional chips!
With Fresh Sides: Serve with a side of creamy guacamole, a bowl of salsa, or some homemade jalapeño ranch for extra flavor.
Additional Tips
To make the most out of your Bell Pepper Nachos, here are a few extra tips:
Use Fresh Bell Peppers: For the best crunch, use fresh bell peppers. Older peppers might be softer and won’t hold up as well as nacho bases.
Customize Your Meat: If you’re not a fan of beef, you can use shredded chicken, black beans, or even tofu for a vegetarian version.
Add Spice: If you want more heat, add some chili flakes, hot sauce, or more jalapeños.
Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store the nachos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven for a few minutes to crisp them back up.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I make these nachos ahead of time?
A1: You can prep the ingredients in advance and store them in the fridge, but for the best results, bake the nachos just before serving.
Q2: Can I use different types of cheese?
A2: Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or even a spicy pepper jack for an extra kick.
Q3: Can I make these nachos vegetarian?
A3: Yes! Skip the meat and load up on beans, guacamole, and extra veggies for a delicious vegetarian version.
Q4: How do I store leftovers?
A4: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven to keep the peppers crunchy.
Q5: Can I use other vegetables instead of bell peppers?
A5: While bell peppers are the best for this recipe, you can experiment with zucchini or even sweet potato slices as a base.
Q6: How do I make these nachos spicy?
A6: Add more jalapeños, sprinkle chili powder over the peppers, or drizzle some hot sauce on top for that extra heat.
Q7: Can I freeze these nachos?
A7: While the nachos are best fresh, you can freeze the assembled but unbaked nachos. When you’re ready, bake them directly from frozen for about 15 minutes.
Q8: Can I add avocado to these nachos?
A8: Yes, adding fresh avocado or guacamole on top is a great way to enhance the flavor and add creaminess.
Q9: Can I serve these nachos as a meal?
A9: Absolutely! These nachos are hearty enough to serve as a meal, especially with the addition of beans and ground beef.
Q10: Can I make these nachos spicier with toppings?
A10: Yes! Top with spicy salsa, jalapeños, or even a drizzle of spicy ranch or hot sauce to give these nachos some extra heat.
Conclusion
These Bell Pepper Nachos are the perfect combination of crunchy, cheesy, and flavorful. They’re light enough for a snack but satisfying enough for a meal. Whether you’re looking for a healthier nacho alternative or just want to try something new, this recipe is sure to hit the spot. So, grab your bell peppers, load them up with toppings, and enjoy a delicious twist on a classic favorite!
Print
Bell Pepper Nachos
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 13 minutes
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer, Snack
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: Mexican
Description
These air fryer stuffed mini peppers are a healthy twist on classic nachos, packed with lean ground turkey, refried beans, salsa, and melty cheese! A quick and easy low-carb snack that’s loaded with flavor.
Ingredients
- 9–11 mini bell peppers (about 8 oz / 227g)
- 1/4 lb lean ground turkey (113g)
- 1/2 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 jalapeño pepper, finely chopped
- Cooking oil spray
- 1/2 can fat-free refried beans (7 1/2 oz / 213g)
- 1/4 cup salsa
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/4 tsp salt (optional)
- 4 oz light Mexican shredded cheese (113g)
Optional Toppings:
- Chopped cilantro
- Sour cream
- Chopped tomato
- Chopped avocado
- Sliced olives
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Peppers & Ingredients
- Cut the tops off the mini bell peppers, slice them in half lengthwise, and remove the seeds.
- Finely chop the onion and jalapeño.
Step 2: Cook the Turkey Mixture
- Crumble the raw ground turkey into small pieces.
- Place the turkey, onion, and jalapeño into the air fryer basket and spray lightly with cooking oil spray.
- Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 5 minutes. Crumble the turkey again after cooking. If needed, air fry for 1 extra minute.
Step 3: Mix the Filling
- In a bowl, mix the cooked turkey, onions, and jalapeño with the refried beans, salsa, chili powder, and salt. Stir until well combined.
Step 4: Assemble & Air Fry
- Arrange the mini bell pepper halves in a single layer in the air fryer basket, cut side up.
- Stuff each pepper half with the turkey and bean mixture, packing them tightly.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the peppers.
- Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 6-8 minutes, until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
Step 5: Garnish & Serve
- Let the peppers cool for a few minutes, then add your favorite nacho toppings.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- Make It Spicier: Add extra jalapeños, hot salsa, or red pepper flakes.
- Make It Vegetarian: Swap the turkey for black beans or crumbled tofu.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg