Keto Tuna Melt Poppers are a delicious low-carb snack or appetizer featuring creamy tuna salad topped with melted cheese in a crispy, golden shell. These bite-sized treats are perfect for a quick lunch, snack, or party dish while staying keto-friendly and packed with protein!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Low-carb & keto-friendly – No bread, just high-protein goodness.
- Quick & easy – Ready in under 20 minutes.
- Cheesy & satisfying – Perfect for a snack or light meal.
- Customizable – Add extra flavors to suit your taste.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Canned tuna (drained)
- Mayonnaise
- Dijon mustard
- Cheddar cheese (shredded)
- Egg (for binding)
- Green onions (chopped)
- Garlic powder
- Salt and pepper
- Jalapeño or mini bell peppers (halved and deseeded)
- More shredded cheese (for topping)
Directions
- Preheat oven – Set to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Make the tuna mixture – In a bowl, mix tuna, mayo, Dijon mustard, shredded cheddar, egg, green onions, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Prepare the peppers – Slice jalapeños or mini bell peppers in half and remove seeds.
- Fill & top – Spoon the tuna mixture into each pepper half and top with extra shredded cheese.
- Bake – Bake for 12-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Serve – Let cool slightly and enjoy warm!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4 (8-10 poppers)
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Variations
- Spicy version – Use jalapeños for heat or add hot sauce to the tuna mix.
- Extra crunch – Sprinkle crushed pork rinds on top before baking.
- Dairy-free – Use dairy-free cheese or omit cheese altogether.
- Avocado tuna melt – Replace peppers with avocado halves for a creamy twist.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Not recommended, as the peppers can become watery.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 300°F for 5 minutes or in an air fryer at 350°F for 3 minutes.
FAQs
Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned?
Yes! Cooked, flaked tuna works well in this recipe.
What’s the best cheese for melting?
Cheddar, mozzarella, or provolone all melt beautifully.
Can I make these in an air fryer?
Yes! Air fry at 350°F for about 8-10 minutes until golden brown.
How do I keep the tuna filling from falling out?
Press the filling firmly into the peppers and top with extra cheese to hold it in place.
Can I add bacon?
Absolutely! Crumbled bacon adds amazing flavor.
Are these spicy?
If you use mini bell peppers, they’re mild. Jalapeños will add heat.
Can I use a different protein?
Yes! Try shredded chicken or salmon for variety.
What dipping sauces go well with these?
Ranch, chipotle mayo, or a keto-friendly honey mustard are great choices.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the poppers, refrigerate, then bake when ready.
What can I serve with these?
They pair well with a simple green salad, keto coleslaw, or a side of guacamole.
Conclusion
Keto Tuna Melt Poppers are a delicious, cheesy, and easy low-carb snack or appetizer. Packed with protein and flavor, they’re perfect for keto dieters or anyone looking for a tasty, healthy bite. Try them today and enjoy a guilt-free treat!
Print
Keto Tuna Melt Poppers
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 poppers 1x
- Category: Appetizer, Snack
- Method: Baking or Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
Keto Tuna Melt Poppers are a delicious low-carb snack or appetizer featuring creamy tuna salad topped with melted cheese in a crispy, golden shell. These bite-sized treats are perfect for a quick lunch, snack, or party dish while staying keto-friendly and packed with protein!
Ingredients
- 1 (5 oz) can tuna, drained
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 tbsp mayonnaise
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp paprika (optional)
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup crushed pork rinds (or almond flour)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions or parsley
- 12 slices cheddar or provolone cheese (for wrapping)
Instructions
1. Preheat & Prep:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- If using an air fryer, preheat to 375°F (190°C).
2. Make the Tuna Mixture:
- In a bowl, mix together tuna, shredded cheese, cream cheese, mayonnaise, mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, paprika, egg, crushed pork rinds (or almond flour), and green onions.
- Stir until well combined.
3. Form & Wrap the Poppers:
- Place a slice of cheddar or provolone cheese on a baking sheet.
- Scoop 1 tbsp of the tuna mixture onto the center of each cheese slice.
- Fold the cheese corners over the filling to form a pocket.
4. Bake or Air Fry:
- Oven: Bake for 12-15 minutes until the cheese is golden and slightly crispy.
- Air Fryer: Cook for 8-10 minutes, shaking halfway through.
5. Serve & Enjoy!
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Enjoy with ranch dressing, spicy mayo, or a squeeze of lemon!
Notes
✔ Extra Crunch: Add chopped bacon or jalapeños to the tuna mixture.
✔ Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free cheese slices and coconut cream instead of cream cheese.
✔ Storage: Store in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat in the oven or air fryer.