Air Fryer Stuffed Bell Peppers
These air fryer stuffed bell peppers are hearty, flavorful, and quick to make. They feature a savory filling of grains, vegetables, and protein, all topped with melted cheese and cooked until tender with lightly charred edges.
Yield
4 servings (4 stuffed peppers)
Ingredients
Main
- 4 medium bell peppers (any color)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Filling Base
- 1 cup cooked rice (white, brown, or quinoa)
- 1/2 lb (225 g) ground beef, turkey, or plant-based mince
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 small zucchini, diced (optional)
- 1 cup canned diced tomatoes, drained
- 1/2 cup corn (optional)
- 1/2 cup black beans (optional, drained and rinsed)
Seasonings
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp oregano
Cheese Topping
- 1 cup shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or vegan cheese
Optional Garnish
- Fresh cilantro or parsley
- Sour cream or vegan yogurt
- Hot sauce
- Lime wedges
Equipment
- Air fryer
- Skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Knife and cutting board
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Peppers
- Wash bell peppers.
- Slice tops off and remove seeds and membranes.
- Lightly brush outside with olive oil.
Optional:
- Pre-air fry empty peppers for 3–5 minutes at 360°F (180°C) for softer texture.
Step 2: Cook the Filling
- Heat a skillet over medium heat.
- Add ground meat or plant-based mince.
- Cook until browned.
Add:
- Onion
- Garlic
- Zucchini (if using)
Cook 3–5 minutes until softened.
Step 3: Add Seasonings & Mix-ins
Stir in:
- Diced tomatoes
- Corn
- Black beans
- Cooked rice
- All spices
Cook 2–3 minutes until well combined.
Taste and adjust salt and spice.
Step 4: Stuff the Peppers
- Fill each pepper generously with mixture.
- Pack lightly but do not over-compress.
- Top with shredded cheese.
Step 5: Air Fry
- Preheat air fryer to 360°F (180°C).
- Place stuffed peppers upright in basket or tray.
- Cook for 10–12 minutes.
Then:
- Increase heat to 380°F (193°C)
- Cook another 3–5 minutes until cheese is melted and slightly golden
Peppers should be tender but still hold shape.
Step 6: Serve
Serve hot with:
- Sour cream or vegan yogurt
- Fresh herbs
- Hot sauce or salsa
- Lime juice
Variations
Mexican Style
Add:
- Taco seasoning
- Jalapeños
- Salsa instead of diced tomatoes
Italian Style
Add:
- Marinara sauce
- Basil
- Vegan parmesan
Low-Carb Version
Replace rice with:
- Cauliflower rice
High-Protein Version
Add:
- Lentils
- Extra beans
- Vegan ground crumbles
Storage
Refrigerator
- Up to 4 days
Freezer
- Up to 2 months (best without cheese topping frozen separately)
Reheating
- Air fryer: 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes
- Oven: 350°F for 10–15 minutes
- Microwave: 1–2 minutes (softer texture)
Approximate Nutrition (Per Stuffed Pepper)
- Calories: 280–420
- Protein: 18–28 g
- Carbs: 25–40 g
- Fat: 10–18 g
