Air Fryer Stuffed Peppers

Do you remember your first bite of a perfectly cooked stuffed pepper? For me, it was a symphony of flavors that I’ll never forget. The sweet crunch of the bell pepper, the savory filling, and the warm, melted cheese on top. It was love at first bite.

Over the years, I’ve tried different cooking methods to recreate that moment, but none could match the perfection of air fryer stuffed peppers. The air fryer’s magic lies in its ability to cook the peppers evenly while preserving their vibrant color and crisp texture. Plus, it’s faster and less messy than using an oven!

WHAT YOU NEED TO MAKE Stuffed Peppers IN THE AIR FRYER?

Let’s move on to what you’ll need for this air fryer stuffed peppers recipe.

Ingredients:

4 large bell peppers
1 lb ground beef or turkey
1 cup cooked rice
1 cup shredded cheese
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
Spices: salt, pepper, and oregano to taste
Olive oil

For this recipe, I particularly love using a blend of colorful bell peppers. They not only make the dish visually appealing but each color has a unique flavor profile, adding an extra dimension to the dish. And the star of the show – our trusty air fryer! If you don’t already own one, I highly recommend investing in one. It’s a versatile kitchen gadget that can transform many of your favorite recipes.

How to Make Air Fryer Stuffed Peppers

First, preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).

As it heats, prepare your peppers. Cut the tops off and remove the seeds and membranes. Brush the outside of each pepper with olive oil.

In a large pan, sauté the onions and garlic until they’re soft and fragrant. Add the ground meat and cook until it’s no longer pink. Stir in the cooked rice, diced tomatoes, spices, and half of the cheese.

Fill each pepper with the meat and rice mixture.

Arrange the peppers in the air fryer basket. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook them in batches.

Cook the peppers for 10-12 minutes, or until the peppers are tender.

Next, sprinkle the rest of the cheese on top of the peppers. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Once done, remove the peppers and serve.

Recipe Variations

There’s room for creativity with this air fryer stuffed peppers recipe. Try different stuffings, like quinoa and black beans for a southwestern flair, or sausage and Italian seasonings for a Tuscan twist. You can also experiment with different types of peppers, like poblano or Anaheim, for a spicier kick.

Pairing Suggestions

These air fryer stuffed peppers are a meal on their own, but if you want to round out your dinner, pair them with a fresh green salad or a serving of garlic bread. They also pair well with a cool, crisp white wine.

Tips:

To prevent the peppers from tipping over, you can slice a small amount off the bottom to create a flat base. Be careful not to cut into the interior of the pepper.

Conclusion

There’s something incredibly satisfying about pulling a batch of hot, bubbly air fryer stuffed peppers from the basket. It’s a meal that’s comforting yet healthy, and versatile enough to accommodate any dietary needs or flavor preferences. I urge you to give this recipe a try. When you do, be sure to share your results. I’d love to hear about your experiences and any creative twists you added to make the recipe your own. Happy air frying!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What type of air fryer works best for stuffed peppers?

Any air fryer should work well for this recipe. The key is to ensure that the peppers fit comfortably in the basket without overcrowding.

Can I make these stuffed peppers ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the peppers and filling in advance. Store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook. Note that you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly if you’re starting with chilled peppers.

My peppers are not fully cooked after the recommended time, what should I do?

All air fryers are slightly different, and cooking times can vary. If your peppers aren’t fully cooked after the recommended time, continue cooking them, checking every few minutes until they reach your desired level of doneness.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze leftover stuffed peppers. Allow them to cool completely before storing them in a freezer-safe container. They can be reheated in the air fryer or in the oven.

Can I use different types of meat or vegetarian options for the stuffing?

Absolutely! This recipe is versatile and can be customized to suit your preferences. You can use ground turkey, chicken, pork, or a plant-based meat substitute. Just ensure that whatever you use is fully cooked before filling the peppers.