Delicious & Easy Stuffed Peppers in Air Fryer Recipe

Stuffed peppers have long been a staple in many kitchens, known for their vibrant appearance and savory filling. With the advent of air fryers, making these classic delights has become even more efficient and healthier. The stuffed peppers in air fryer recipe is a perfect combination of simplicity, flavor, and nutrition. Whether you’re seeking a hearty family dinner or a healthy meal prep option, these air-fried stuffed bell peppers deliver both taste and convenience with minimal oil and maximum crispness.

The air fryer not only reduces cooking time but also retains the peppers’ natural sweetness while giving the filling a deliciously golden top. Stuffed with a mixture of ground meat, vegetables, rice, and spices, these peppers are endlessly customizable and satisfying. This recipe is easy to prepare and requires basic kitchen tools, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or weekend meal planning.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 325

• Protein: 22g

• Carbohydrates: 25g

• Dietary Fiber: 5g

• Sugars: 6g

• Fat: 15g

• Saturated Fat: 5g

• Cholesterol: 60mg

• Sodium: 520mg

• Vitamin A: 35% DV

• Vitamin C: 150% DV

• Calcium: 10% DV

• Iron: 15% DV

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on ingredients used.

Prep & Cooking Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Active Time: 20 minutes

• Resting Time: 5 minutes

• Total Time: 40 minutes

Cuisine & Course

• Cuisine: American, Mediterranean

• Course: Main Course

Servings

• Yields: 4 stuffed bell peppers (4 servings)

Equipment Needed

• Air fryer (5-quart or larger recommended)

• Mixing bowls

• Knife and cutting board

• Spoon for stuffing

• Aluminum foil (optional)

• Tongs or spatula

Ingredients

For the Stuffed Peppers:

• 4 large bell peppers (any color, tops cut and seeds removed)

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

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

• 1/2 pound ground beef (or turkey, chicken, or plant-based substitute)

• 1/2 cup canned diced tomatoes (drained)

• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (plus more for topping)

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 1/4 tsp black pepper

• Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Bell Peppers

Wash and dry the bell peppers. Slice off the tops, remove the seeds and membranes inside, and set aside. If the peppers don’t sit flat, trim a thin slice from the bottom to stabilize them.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In a skillet or sauté pan over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté the chopped onion for 2-3 minutes until translucent. Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
Add the ground beef (or chosen meat substitute) and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Drain excess grease if necessary.
Stir in the cooked rice, diced tomatoes, mozzarella, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined and heated through. Remove from heat.

Step 3: Stuff the Peppers

Spoon the filling into each bell pepper cavity, pressing down gently to ensure they are fully packed. Top each pepper with additional shredded mozzarella if desired for a melty golden finish.

Step 4: Air Fry the Peppers

Preheat your air fryer to 360°F (180°C) for about 3 minutes.
Place the stuffed peppers in the air fryer basket, leaving a little space between each one. Depending on your air fryer size, you may need to cook in batches.
Air fry at 360°F for 10–12 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly. For extra browning, add 1-2 extra minutes.
Optional: Lightly tent the tops with foil if the cheese browns too quickly.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Carefully remove the stuffed peppers using tongs. Let them rest for about 5 minutes before serving to allow the filling to set. Garnish with fresh parsley or an extra sprinkle of Parmesan, if desired.

Recipe Tips & Variations

• Make it vegetarian: Skip the meat and use black beans, lentils, or extra vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini.

• Low-carb option: Use riced cauliflower instead of regular rice.

• Add spice: Include diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the filling for a kick.

• Meal prep-friendly: Cook and refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the air fryer or microwave.

• Kids’ version: Use mini bell peppers for kid-friendly sizes and milder flavors.

Why Use the Air Fryer?

Using an air fryer for stuffed peppers cuts down on traditional oven baking time while still achieving a beautifully roasted exterior and a hot, well-cooked interior. It also avoids heating up the whole kitchen and uses less oil, making it a healthier choice overall.

Serving Suggestions

Pair these stuffed peppers with a side salad, roasted veggies, or a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream. They also go well with garlic bread or a light soup for a full meal.

Final Thoughts

This stuffed peppers in air fryer recipe is a perfect example of how modern cooking appliances can simplify traditional recipes without sacrificing flavor. It’s healthy, customizable, quick to prepare, and family-approved. Whether you’re new to the air fryer or a seasoned user, this recipe is bound to become a go-to dinner option.