Air Fryer Stuffed Peppers

Stuffed peppers are a hearty, healthy, and customizable meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. Using an air fryer makes them even easier and quicker to prepare while giving the peppers a perfectly roasted texture. This recipe is packed with a flavorful mixture of ground beef, rice, and vegetables, creating a satisfying dish for the whole family.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 4 large bell peppers (any color)
• 250g (1/2 lb) ground beef or turkey
• 1 cup cooked rice (white, brown, or cauliflower rice)
• 1/2 cup diced onion
• 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
  

  Instructions

  1. Prepare the Bell Peppers:
     • Slice off the tops of the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes inside. Set the tops aside for later use.
     • Lightly brush the peppers with olive oil, inside and out.
  2. Cook the Filling:
     • Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef or turkey. Cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks.
     • Add the diced onion, tomatoes, tomato paste, garlic powder, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for 3–4 minutes until the mixture is well combined and heated through.
     • Stir in the cooked rice and half of the shredded cheese. Mix well, then remove from heat.
  3. Stuff the Peppers:
     • Spoon the filling evenly into the prepared bell peppers. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top of each pepper.
  4. Preheat the Air Fryer:
     • Set the air fryer to 190°C (375°F) and preheat for 3–5 minutes.
  5. Cook the Stuffed Peppers:
     • Arrange the stuffed peppers in the air fryer basket, standing upright. Place the tops of the peppers back on (optional).
     • Air fry for 12–15 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  6. Serve:
     • Carefully remove the stuffed peppers from the air fryer. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm.

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  Tips:

  • For a vegetarian version, swap the ground meat for black beans, chickpeas, or crumbled tofu.
  • Add a spicy kick by mixing chopped jalapeños or red chili flakes into the filling.
  • Serve with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.