Easy Air Fryer Stuffed Peppers – Healthy & Flavorful Delight

Making stuffed peppers in the air fryer transforms this classic comfort food into a quicker, easier weeknight meal without sacrificing flavor.

These colorful bell peppers filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, rice, and vegetables create a complete meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious.

The air fryer gives the peppers a perfect tender-crisp texture while ensuring the filling is thoroughly cooked and beautifully melded together.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Air fryer stuffed peppers have become my go-to dinner option when I need something impressive yet simple to prepare.

The air fryer dramatically cuts down cooking time compared to traditional oven methods, and the results are consistently excellent. The peppers maintain their vibrant color and nutrients while developing a slight char that enhances their natural sweetness.

This recipe is incredibly versatile – you can customize the filling based on your dietary preferences or simply use whatever ingredients you have on hand. It’s an excellent way to incorporate vegetables into your diet and create a balanced meal in one colorful package.

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15-18 minutes
• Total Time: 30-33 minutes
• Servings: 4 people (4 stuffed pepper halves)
• Calories: Approximately 320 calories per serving

Ingredients

• 4 medium bell peppers (any color, but red, yellow and orange tend to be sweeter)
• 1 pound lean ground beef (substitute ground turkey or plant-based meat alternative if preferred)
• 1 medium onion, finely diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup cooked rice (white, brown, or cauliflower rice all work well)
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained (reserve 2 tablespoons of liquid)
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella, cheddar, or Mexican blend)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil or cooking spray for the air fryer basket

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Air fryer
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Large skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spoon for stuffing peppers

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Instructions

Preparing the Peppers

1. Wash the bell peppers thoroughly under cool running water.
2. Cut each pepper in half lengthwise, from stem to bottom.
3. Remove the seeds, membranes, and stems carefully, creating a clean “bowl” shape.
4. If your peppers don’t sit flat, slice a tiny bit off the bottom to create a stable base, being careful not to cut through the pepper.

Making the Filling

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it browns, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Add the diced onion to the beef and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute to develop the flavor.
6. Add the drained diced tomatoes, reserved tomato liquid, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, Worcestershire sauce, and red pepper flakes if using.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Cook the mixture for 2-3 minutes until most of the liquid has evaporated.
9. Remove from heat and stir in the cooked rice and half of the shredded cheese until well combined.
10. Mix in most of the chopped parsley, saving some for garnish.

Stuffing and Air Frying

1. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (180°C) for 3-5 minutes.
2. Lightly coat the air fryer basket with cooking spray or olive oil to prevent sticking.
3. Divide the filling evenly among the pepper halves, gently pressing down to pack the filling without breaking the peppers.
4. Place the stuffed pepper halves in the air fryer basket, making sure they’re stable. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook them in batches.
5. Air fry for 8-10 minutes until the peppers begin to soften and slightly char.
6. Top each pepper with the remaining shredded cheese.
7. Continue air frying for 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts and turns golden.
8. Carefully remove the stuffed peppers from the air fryer.

Serving

1. Allow the stuffed peppers to cool for 2-3 minutes before serving.
2. Garnish with the remaining fresh parsley.
3. Serve hot, either on their own or with a side salad.

Recipe Variations and Substitutions

Meat Options

• Ground turkey or chicken: For a leaner option with similar texture
• Italian sausage: Adds rich flavor (remove casing before cooking)
• Plant-based meat substitute: Great vegetarian alternative
• Cooked lentils: For a higher fiber, vegetarian version

Grain Options

• Quinoa: Higher protein alternative to rice
• Cauliflower rice: Lower carb alternative
• Couscous: Quick-cooking alternative with different texture
• Farro or barley: For a heartier, chewier texture

Cheese Options

• Pepper jack: Adds a spicy kick
• Goat cheese: Provides tangy creaminess
• Feta cheese: Mediterranean-inspired variation
• Dairy-free cheese: For a vegan option

Additional Add-ins

• Black beans or corn: Southwestern-style stuffed peppers
• Spinach or kale: Extra vegetables and nutrients
• Pine nuts or almonds: Added crunch and protein
• Olives or capers: Mediterranean flavor profile

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover stuffed peppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure they have cooled completely before refrigerating.

Freezer Storage

These stuffed peppers freeze beautifully! Place cooled peppers in a freezer-safe container or wrap them individually in aluminum foil, then store in a freezer bag. They can be kept frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

From refrigerated:

• Air Fryer: Reheat at 325°F (165°C) for 5-7 minutes until heated through
• Microwave: 2-3 minutes on medium power
• Oven: 350°F (180°C) for 15 minutes in a covered baking dish

From frozen:

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating, or
• Reheat from frozen in a 350°F (180°C) oven for 30-35 minutes until the center reaches 165°F (74°C)

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Stuffed Peppers

1. Choose the right peppers: Select peppers with relatively flat bottoms and thick walls that will hold up well during cooking.
2. Precook your rice: Make sure your rice is already cooked before adding it to the filling. This ensures proper texture and prevents undercooked rice.
3. Don’t overstuff: Leave a small amount of space at the top of each pepper to prevent spillage during cooking.
4. Check peppers for doneness: The ideal texture is tender but not completely soft. The pepper should still hold its shape but be easily pierced with a fork.
5. Rotating during cooking: If your air fryer heats unevenly, consider rotating the peppers halfway through cooking for even results.
6. Rest before serving: Allow peppers to rest for a few minutes after cooking to let the flavors settle and avoid burning your mouth on the extremely hot filling.

Why Air Fryer Stuffed Peppers Work So Well

The air fryer is perfect for cooking stuffed peppers because:

1. It circulates hot air around the peppers, cooking them evenly from all sides
2. The rapid air circulation creates a slightly charred, caramelized exterior while keeping the interior moist
3. The compact cooking chamber retains moisture better than an open oven, preventing the filling from drying out
4. The cooking time is significantly reduced compared to traditional oven methods

Serving Suggestions

These air fryer stuffed peppers make a complete meal on their own, but they pair wonderfully with:

• Fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette
• Crusty bread or garlic bread
• Steamed or roasted vegetables
• A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top
• Fresh avocado slices or guacamole

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare the filling and stuff the peppers up to 24 hours in advance. Store them covered in the refrigerator and add 1-2 minutes to the cooking time when air frying from cold.

Can I use frozen peppers? Fresh peppers work best for this recipe. Frozen peppers tend to become too soft and release too much water when thawed and cooked.

My air fryer is small. Can I stack the peppers? It’s best not to stack the peppers as this prevents proper air circulation. Cook them in batches for the best results.

Can I make these without cheese? Absolutely! The cheese adds flavor and helps bind the filling, but you can omit it or use a dairy-free alternative.

How do I know when the peppers are done? The peppers should be tender enough to pierce easily with a fork, but still hold their shape. The filling should be hot throughout and the cheese melted and lightly browned.

Enjoy these delicious air fryer stuffed peppers as a satisfying, nutritious meal that comes together quickly with minimal cleanup. They’re perfect for busy weeknights or for meal prep, as they store and reheat beautifully.