Easy & Healthy Air Fryer Stuffed Peppers Recipe

Stuffed peppers are a classic comfort food, beloved for their vibrant appearance, versatility, and hearty flavor. With the advent of air fryers, this traditional dish gets a modern makeover—faster, crispier, and just as satisfying. The Air Fryer Stuffed Peppers Recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something wholesome and filling without spending hours in the kitchen. These peppers are packed with a savory mix of seasoned ground meat, fluffy rice, vegetables, and gooey cheese, all cooked to perfection with a crispy-tender finish.

Cooking stuffed peppers in the air fryer not only cuts down on the time but also locks in flavor, giving you a dish that’s delicious, nutritious, and visually stunning. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or making dinner for the family, these peppers deliver big on flavor and nutrition.

Nutritional Value (Per Serving)

• Calories: 320 kcal

• Protein: 21g

• Carbohydrates: 28g

• Fat: 14g

• Fiber: 4g

• Sugar: 5g

• Cholesterol: 55mg

• Sodium: 560mg

Note: Nutritional values can vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Prep Time, Cook Time, and Servings

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Active Cook Time: 15 minutes

• Resting Time: 5 minutes

• Total Time: 35 minutes

• Cuisine: American, Mediterranean

• Course: Main Course, Dinner

• Servings: 4 stuffed pepper halves

• Calories per Serving: Approximately 320 kcal

Required Equipment

• Air fryer (6-quart or larger preferred)

• Sharp knife and cutting board

• Mixing bowl

• Skillet (optional, for pre-cooking meat or rice)

• Spoon or spatula

• Tongs (for easy handling)

Ingredients

For the Peppers:

• 2 large bell peppers (any color – red, yellow, or green), halved and seeds removed

For the Filling:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1/2 pound ground beef or ground turkey

• 1/2 cup cooked rice (white, brown, or cauliflower rice)

• 1/4 cup chopped onion

• 1 clove garlic, minced

• 1/2 cup chopped tomatoes (fresh or canned)

• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1/2 teaspoon cumin

• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese

Optional Toppings:

• Fresh parsley or cilantro

• Extra cheese

• Sour cream or Greek yogurt

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Bell Peppers

• Wash and dry the bell peppers.

• Slice them in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes.

• Lightly brush or spray them with olive oil to keep them tender during air frying.

Step 2: Cook the Filling

• Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.

• Add chopped onion and garlic, sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant.

• Add ground meat and cook until browned (about 5–6 minutes).

• Mix in cooked rice, chopped tomatoes, and season with oregano, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.

• Stir everything together and simmer for 3–4 minutes until flavors meld.

• Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly before stuffing.

Step 3: Fill the Peppers

• Spoon the meat and rice mixture into each pepper half.

• Press down gently with the back of a spoon to compact the filling.

• Sprinkle cheese evenly on top of each stuffed pepper.

Step 4: Air Fry the Stuffed Peppers

• Preheat the air fryer to 360°F (180°C) for 3 minutes.

• Place the stuffed peppers in the basket in a single layer (you may need to do this in batches).

• Air fry for 10–12 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is golden and bubbly.

• Check for doneness by piercing the pepper with a fork—it should be soft but not falling apart.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

• Let the stuffed peppers rest for 5 minutes before serving.

• Garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro, and serve with a side salad or garlic bread.

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Tips and Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Swap the meat for black beans, lentils, or crumbled tofu.

• Low-Carb Option: Use cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice.

• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of chili flakes to the filling.

• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a double batch and refrigerate leftovers for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

• Cheese Swap: Try feta, pepper jack, or gouda for a different flavor profile.

Why Make Stuffed Peppers in an Air Fryer?

Traditional stuffed peppers are often baked in the oven, which can take 40–50 minutes. The air fryer slashes that time nearly in half, delivering the same delicious results with less fuss. You also don’t need to pre-boil the peppers. The air fryer crisps the outer layer while keeping the inside juicy and tender. It’s energy-efficient, easy to clean up, and ideal for small-batch cooking.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your air fryer stuffed peppers with:

• A light cucumber and tomato salad

• Steamed or roasted vegetables

• Crusty garlic bread

• Mashed or roasted potatoes

• A side of tzatziki or ranch dressing

Storage & Reheating

Storage:
Cool leftover stuffed peppers completely and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Reheating:

• In the air fryer: 350°F for 4–5 minutes

• In the microwave: 1–2 minutes on high

• In the oven: 350°F for 10–12 minutes

Freezing:
Individually wrap each stuffed pepper in foil and place in a freezer bag. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat as above.

Final Thoughts

The Air Fryer Stuffed Peppers Recipe is a game-changer for busy households looking to eat healthy, hearty meals without sacrificing flavor or time. It’s adaptable to different dietary needs, customizable with your favorite fillings, and ready in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re a fan of bold spices or prefer something simple and cheesy, these stuffed peppers are bound to become a regular on your weekly dinner menu.