Air-Fried Stuffed Peppers are a hearty and wholesome dish featuring bell peppers filled with a savory mixture of rice, vegetables, beans, and cheese. The air fryer gives the peppers a slight crispiness on the outside while the filling remains warm and flavorful. This dish is perfect as a main course, side dish, or even an impressive appetizer, offering vibrant flavors and a satisfying texture.
Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 4 medium bell peppers (any color), tops removed and seeds cleaned out
- 1 cup cooked rice or quinoa
- 1/2 cup black beans (optional for protein)
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
- 1/4 cup diced onions
- 1/4 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
- Prepare the Peppers:
- Slice the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Lightly brush the insides with olive oil and sprinkle with a pinch of salt.
- Prepare the Filling:
- In a large bowl, mix the cooked rice or quinoa, black beans, diced tomatoes, onions, carrots, half of the cheese, garlic powder, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
- Stuff the Peppers:
- Fill each pepper generously with the prepared mixture. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
- Air Fry the Peppers:
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the stuffed peppers in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are upright and not overcrowded.
- Air fry for 10-12 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese on top is melted and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Remove from the air fryer and garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro. Serve warm with a side of sour cream or salsa, if desired.
Time:
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
Servings:
- Serves 4 people (1 stuffed pepper per person).
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving, Approximate):
- Calories: ~180
- Protein: 8g
- Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: ~350mg
Note: Nutritional values will vary depending on the exact ingredients used.
Key Notes:
- Filling Variations: Add ground turkey, chicken, or crumbled tofu for additional protein.
- Cheese Options: Use feta, Parmesan, or a vegan cheese substitute to suit your preferences.
- Crispiness Tip: For extra crispy pepper edges, lightly spray the peppers with olive oil before air frying.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-4 minutes.
- Customization: Experiment with different vegetables, grains, or spices to make this dish your own.
Enjoy these flavorful Air-Fried Stuffed Peppers as a vibrant and satisfying addition to your meal rotation!