Tuna Melt Stuffed Bell Peppers
Tuna Melt Stuffed Bell Peppers combine the savory comfort of a classic tuna melt sandwich with fresh bell peppers filled with tuna salad, celery, mayo, and melted cheese, all baked until golden and tender.
This dish is perfect for busy weeknights, meal prepping for the week, or serving to guests as an elegant yet easy low-carb main course.
Save this recipe on Pinterest for later!
Print
Servings: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 2 small bell peppers any color, halved lengthwise and seeded
- 2 5-ounce cans light tuna drained well
- 4 tablespoons diced celery finely chopped for texture
- 3 tablespoons mayonnaise or to taste for creaminess
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder for savory depth
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper freshly ground preferred
- 4 slices provolone or cheddar cheese or a mix of both
Instructions
- Drain the Tuna: Empty both cans of tuna into a fine-mesh strainer and press gently with the back of a spoon to remove excess liquid, about 1 minute.
- Mix the Base: In a medium bowl, combine the drained tuna, diced celery, mayonnaise, garlic powder, and black pepper, stirring until evenly combined.
- Taste and Adjust: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or extra mayonnaise if desired, then season to your preference, about 30 seconds.
- Halve and Seed: Slice each bell pepper in half lengthwise, then carefully scoop out the seeds and white membranes with a small spoon, leaving the pepper wall intact.
- Pat Dry: Use a paper towel to gently dry the inside of each pepper half, removing any excess moisture so the filling stays anchored.
- Arrange on Pan: Place the pepper halves cut-side up on a baking sheet or shallow baking dish, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
- Fill the Peppers: Spoon the tuna mixture evenly into each pepper half, pressing gently so it fills the cavity and creates a small mound on top.
- Top with Cheese: Place one slice of cheese over each filled pepper half, covering the tuna mixture generously.
- Bake: Place in a preheated 400°F oven for 12-15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and lightly golden and the peppers are tender-crisp.
- Finish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool for 1-2 minutes before serving, optionally garnishing with fresh herbs or additional pepper flakes.