This 2-Ingredient Super Bowl Snack Starts With a Protein-Packed Dip From Costco

I'm a big football fan, and my love for the game is only matched by my love of game day snacks. It should come as no surprise, then, that the Super Bowl is hands-down one of my favorite sporting events of the year. Potato skins, homemade soft pretzels, jalapeño poppers, ham-and-cheese sliders... I want it all.

That said, I’m fully aware that many game day appetizers are not always the healthiest. That’s why this year, I’m seeking to bring a little balance to the festivities but still keep it simple and satisfying. These two-ingredient sweet pepper buffalo chicken bites are packed with protein, low-carb, and bursting with flavor, crunch, and spice.

While you could make this recipe with your favorite homemade buffalo chicken dip recipe, you can save time and money by heading to your local Costco and snagging a tub of Good Foods Buffalo Style Chicken Dip. It not only tastes delicious and has the perfect thick dip consistency, it's also made with real ingredients.

Sold in 24-ounce containers (for under $11.50!), you can find this dip in the refrigerated section of the store, usually near hummus, guacamole, and other dips. If you’re without a Costco membership, it’s worth noting that you can find the product at several other major retailers; however, if you’re feeding a crowd, buying the bulk-size tub at the warehouse store is without a doubt the best bang for your buck.

How to Make 2-Ingredient Sweet Pepper Buffalo Bites

With your buffalo-style chicken dip in hand, the only other ingredient you need for this recipe is a bag of multi-colored mini sweet peppers. If you’re in need, Costco usually has 1.5-pound bags of produce available in the produce section.

Begin by slicing the peppers in half lengthwise, removing the stems and seeds. Arrange the pepper halves on a plate, then warm the buffalo dip. (You can either heat it in a microwave-safe bowl in the microwave for two minutes, or in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until hot.) Finally, use a spoon to scoop the warm dip into each pepper half.

Serve this simple snack immediately. Alternatively, you can skip heating the dip if you like it cold; simply scoop it into the pepper halves directly from the tub, and they're ready to be devoured. But be warned: Enthusiastic touchdown dances may ensue with every bite.

Tips for Making Sweet Pepper Buffalo Bites

If you’re in a rush, sticking to the 2-ingredient version is, of course, perfectly fine. (Nobody will throw a challenge flag in protest, I promise.) However, if you have a little more time, you can also jazz up this recipe with extra mix-ins and toppings. Here are just a few ways to customize this easy game day snack.

• Fresh herbs for the win: For an extra flourish of color and freshness, try stirring in a couple tablespoons of fresh herbs into the dip before filling the peppers, or sprinkling some on top just before serving. Finely chopped parsley, cilantro, chives, green onions, and dill are just a few herbs that taste great with this dip.
• Cheese, please: Many homemade buffalo chicken dip recipes will often include cheese, so it makes sense here, too. Consider stirring in 1 cup of your favorite cheese into the warm dip before stuffing the peppers. You could also sprinkle each stuffed pepper with a little cheese and pop them under the broiler for a minute or two until bubbly. Blue cheese, pepper Jack, cheddar, or mozzarella are just a few varieties to try.
• Go for the extra kick: Looking for more heat? Garnish each bite with a thin slice of jalapeno, or stir a few diced tablespoons into the dip before stuffing the sweet peppers.
• Crunch factor: For added texture, consider topping these snacks with toasted panko or homemade bread crumbs.