Image Source from mattm3223

Easy Air Fryer Stuffed Peppers Recipe

Stuffed peppers are a delightful and versatile dish that combines vibrant vegetables with a range of delicious fillings. With the advent of air fryers, preparing these mouth-watering creations has become even easier, allowing for a quicker cooking time and less mess compared to traditional methods. In this article, we share an easy air fryer stuffed peppers recipe that is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.

Ingredients

For this recipe, you’ll need:

• 4 large bell peppers (any colour)
• 200g minced beef (or substitute with turkey, chicken, or a plant-based alternative)
• 100g cooked rice or quinoa
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 can (400g) chopped tomatoes
• 100g grated cheese (cheddar or mozzarella works well)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Peppers: Begin by washing the bell peppers thoroughly. Slice off the tops and carefully remove the seeds and membranes to create a hollow space for the filling.

2. Make the Filling: In a medium frying pan over medium heat, add a splash of oil and sauté the chopped onion until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Stir in the minced meat, cooking until browned. Drain any excess fat if necessary.

3. Combine Ingredients: Once the minced meat is cooked, add the chopped tomatoes, cooked rice or quinoa, smoked paprika, and dried oregano. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Allow it to simmer for about 5 minutes to let the flavours meld together.

4. Stuff the Peppers: Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (356°F). While it’s heating, fill each bell pepper with the meat and rice mixture, pressing down gently to pack it in. Once filled, sprinkle the grated cheese on top of each pepper.

5. Air Frying: Arrange the stuffed peppers in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Cook the peppers for 12-15 minutes at 180°C. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on the size of the peppers and your specific air fryer model, so keep an eye on them. The peppers should be tender, and the cheese should be melted and slightly golden.

6. Serve: Once cooked, carefully remove the stuffed peppers from the air fryer. Let them cool for a minute before plating. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm. These stuffed peppers pair beautifully with a crisp salad or some crusty bread.

Variations

Feel free to get creative with your stuffing! Here are a few variations to consider:

• Vegetarian Option: Swap the minced meat for a combination of black beans, corn, and diced courgettes for a hearty vegetarian filling.
• Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of chilli powder to the filling for some heat.
• Cheesy Delight: Experiment with different cheese types, such as feta or goat cheese, for a unique flavour profile.

Conclusion

This easy air fryer stuffed peppers recipe is not only quick to prepare but also allows for flexibility in ingredients and flavours, making it a family favourite. The air fryer reduces cooking time while enhancing the natural flavours of the peppers. Whether you’re serving these as a main dish or a side, stuffed peppers are sure to please everyone at the table. Try this recipe today and enjoy a delicious meal with minimal fuss!