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Air Fryer Stuffed Peppers

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  • Author: Alice
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Air Fryer Stuffed Peppers are a quick, healthy, and customizable meal made with bell peppers, ground beef (or turkey), rice, beans, and a blend of spices, all cooked to perfection in the air fryer. This easy recipe is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner, meal prepping, or a fun family meal that’s hearty, flavorful, and healthy.


Ingredients

For the Peppers:

  • 4 bell peppers, tops cut off and seeds removed

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for drizzling or spraying)

For the Filling:

  • 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)

  • 1/2 cup cooked rice (or cauliflower rice for low-carb option)

  • 1/2 cup black beans (optional)

  • 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)

  • 1 small onion, diced

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 teaspoon chili powder

  • 1 teaspoon cumin

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For Optional Topping:

  • 1/2 cup marinara sauce (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Peppers:

    • Cut off the tops of the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Lightly drizzle or spray the peppers with olive oil. Set aside.

  2. Cook the Filling:

    • In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.

    • Add the ground beef (or turkey), and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.

    • Stir in cooked rice, black beans, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes to combine the flavors.

  3. Stuff the Peppers:

    • Spoon the filling into the hollowed-out bell peppers, packing the mixture tightly.

    • Top each stuffed pepper with a sprinkle of shredded cheese.

  4. Air Fry the Peppers:

    • Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).

    • Place the stuffed peppers in the air fryer basket, standing upright. If your air fryer is small, you may need to cook them in batches.

    • Air fry for 15-20 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

  5. Optional Marinara Topping:

    • If desired, top the stuffed peppers with marinara sauce after cooking for added flavor.

  6. Serve:

    • Let the stuffed peppers cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro, sour cream, or additional cheese if desired.


Notes

Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground beef with quinoa, black beans, and vegetables for a vegetarian version.Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the filling for extra heat.Low-Carb: Use cauliflower rice instead of regular rice for a keto-friendly, low-carb version.Cheese Lovers: Add extra cheese inside or on top for a gooier, cheesier version.