Easy Air Fryer Stuffed Peppers: 7 Flavorful Twists

Name: Easy Air Fryer Stuffed Peppers: 7 Flavorful Twists
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 4 bell peppers; 1 cup cooked rice; 1 can black beans, drained; 1 cup corn; 1 cup salsa; 1 cup shredded cheese; 1 tsp cumin; 1 tsp chili powder

By:

Christina R. Jones

June 9, 2025

This post may contain affiliate links learn more

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

There’s something incredibly satisfying about making Easy Air Fryer Stuffed Peppers. I mean, who doesn’t love a meal that looks so vibrant and tastes so delicious? These little gems are not just pretty; they’re quick and simple to whip up, making them perfect for those busy weeknight dinners when you want something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me, after a long day, the last thing I want to do is spend forever cooking!

Easy Air Fryer Stuffed Peppers - detail 1

I’ll never forget the first time I made stuffed peppers for my family. I was a bit nervous, but once I pulled them out of the air fryer, the aroma filled the kitchen, and the kids couldn’t wait to dig in. Each bite was a burst of flavors and textures, and they were so impressed! Now, it’s a go-to recipe in our house. The best part? You can easily customize them to suit your taste, so everyone can have their favorite version. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s get cooking – these Easy Air Fryer Stuffed Peppers are going to be a hit!

Ingredients for Easy Air Fryer Stuffed Peppers

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to success in making these delicious Easy Air Fryer Stuffed Peppers. Here’s what you’ll need:

4 bell peppers: You can use any color you prefer—red, yellow, green, or orange. Each brings its own sweetness!
1 cup cooked rice: Use leftover rice or make a fresh batch. White, brown, or even cauliflower rice will work.
1 can black beans, drained: These add a lovely texture and protein. Make sure to rinse them to get rid of excess sodium!
1 cup corn: Frozen or canned corn both work great. It adds a sweet crunch that complements the other ingredients.
1 cup salsa: Choose your favorite salsa—mild, medium, or spicy! This adds moisture and flavor to your filling.
1 cup shredded cheese: Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or any cheese you love will melt beautifully on top.
1 tsp cumin: This spice gives a warm, earthy flavor that’s essential in Mexican cuisine.
1 tsp chili powder: For a bit of heat and a nice depth of flavor.

With these ingredients on hand, you’re well on your way to creating a meal that’s not only satisfying but also fun to make. Let’s get cooking!

How to Prepare Easy Air Fryer Stuffed Peppers

Now that you’ve got all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part: preparing your Easy Air Fryer Stuffed Peppers! It’s a straightforward process, and I promise it’ll be worth it when you take that first bite.

Preheat Your Air Fryer

First things first, let’s get that air fryer fired up! Preheating is super important because it helps create that lovely crispy texture on the outside of your peppers while keeping the filling nice and warm. Set your air fryer to 360°F and let it preheat for about 5 minutes. This little step makes a big difference!

Prepare the Bell Peppers

While your air fryer is heating up, grab your bell peppers. I like to slice off the tops (just about an inch down) and then gently remove the seeds and membranes. You can use a small knife or even your hands for this part. Just watch out for any sharp edges! You want them hollow so you can fill them to the brim with that delicious mixture we’re making.

Mix the Filling

Now it’s time to bring everything together! In a large mixing bowl, combine your cooked rice, drained black beans, corn, salsa, shredded cheese, cumin, and chili powder. I usually start with the rice and then add the rest of the ingredients, mixing gently. You want everything to be well combined but not over-mixed – we’re making a stuffing, not a smoothie! Make sure to taste it too; you might want to add a little more salsa or spices depending on your flavor preferences.

Stuff the Peppers

Once your filling is ready, it’s time to stuff those peppers! I like to use a spoon to pack the mixture into each pepper, pressing down lightly to fit as much filling in as possible. Leave a little space at the top because the cheese will melt and bubble a bit. It’s okay if some spills out; that just means extra cheesy goodness!

Air Fry the Stuffed Peppers

Carefully place your stuffed peppers in the air fryer basket, making sure they’re standing up straight. You might need to adjust them a bit to fit. Cook them at 360°F for about 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes – you want the peppers to be tender but still hold their shape. When they’re done, the cheese should be melted and slightly golden. Wow, just wait until you smell those!

Serve and Enjoy

Once your peppers are out of the air fryer, let them cool for a minute before serving. They’re fantastic on their own, but you can also top them with fresh avocado, a dollop of sour cream, or even some chopped cilantro for an extra pop of flavor. Trust me, your family will be asking for seconds!

Nutritional Information

Before diving into these scrumptious Easy Air Fryer Stuffed Peppers, it’s good to know what you’re getting in terms of nutrition. Keep in mind that the nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so these figures are approximate. A typical serving size of one stuffed pepper contains about:

Calories: 250
Fat: 8g
Protein: 10g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 400mg
Fiber: 6g

These stuffed peppers are not only delicious but also pack a healthy punch, making them a great choice for a balanced meal. Enjoy every bite knowing you’re fueling your body with wholesome ingredients!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to prepare: These Easy Air Fryer Stuffed Peppers come together in just 30 minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknights.
Full of flavor: With a delightful mix of spices, veggies, and cheese, every bite is a burst of deliciousness that your taste buds will adore.
Healthy and vegetarian-friendly: Packed with nutritious ingredients, these peppers are a guilt-free option that everyone can enjoy.
Versatile with ingredient options: Feel free to swap in your favorite proteins or veggies, so you can customize each batch to suit your family’s tastes!

Tips for Success

To make sure your Easy Air Fryer Stuffed Peppers turn out perfectly every time, here are some pro tips I’ve picked up along the way:

Don’t overstuff: While it’s tempting to pack in as much filling as possible, leave a little room at the top of each pepper. This prevents the filling from overflowing and keeps the cheese from creating a mess in the air fryer.
Check doneness: Every air fryer is a bit different, so start checking your peppers around the 12-minute mark. You want them tender but not mushy—nobody likes a soggy pepper!
Experiment with spices: Feel free to play around with the spices! If you like it spicy, add a pinch of cayenne or some diced jalapeños to the filling. Adjusting the seasoning to your taste can elevate the dish.
Let them cool: After air frying, let the peppers cool for a minute or two before digging in. This not only helps the flavors settle but also prevents anyone from burning their mouth on molten cheese!
Make-ahead option: You can prep the filling and stuff the peppers ahead of time. Just store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. This way, dinner can be on the table even faster!

With these tips, you’ll impress everyone with your stuffed peppers—trust me, they’ll think you’re a pro!

Variations on Easy Air Fryer Stuffed Peppers

One of the best things about Easy Air Fryer Stuffed Peppers is how adaptable they are! You can easily switch up the ingredients to keep things exciting or to cater to different tastes. Here are some fun variations to consider:

Meat Lovers: If you want to add some protein, try mixing in ground beef, turkey, or chicken with the filling. Just cook the meat beforehand and combine it with the other ingredients before stuffing the peppers.
Veggie Boost: For a heartier vegetarian option, throw in some sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach. These veggies add great flavor and nutrition, making them a delightful addition!
Spice It Up: If you’re craving a bit more heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the filling. You could also experiment with different spice blends, like taco seasoning or even curry powder for a unique twist.
Cheesy Goodness: Swap out the shredded cheese for feta or goat cheese for a tangy flavor. Or, try a blend of cheeses like mozzarella and pepper jack for an extra cheesy kick!
Quinoa or Couscous: Instead of rice, use cooked quinoa or couscous to change up the base. These options are super nutritious and add a lovely texture!

With these variations, you can make Easy Air Fryer Stuffed Peppers a new dish every time you cook them. So go ahead, get creative and make it your own!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing your Easy Air Fryer Stuffed Peppers is a breeze! Once they’ve cooled down to room temperature, place any leftovers in an airtight container. They’ll keep well in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. Just make sure to separate the peppers if you’ve stacked them to avoid any squishing!

When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheating is simple. You can pop them back in the air fryer at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes until they’re heated through. This method keeps the peppers nice and crisp! Alternatively, you can use a microwave, but be careful not to overheat them, as they can become a bit soggy. Just a minute or two should do the trick. Enjoy your delicious stuffed peppers all over again!

Serving Suggestions

These Easy Air Fryer Stuffed Peppers are fantastic on their own, but they’re even better when paired with some delicious sides! I love serving them alongside a fresh garden salad drizzled with a zesty vinaigrette for a burst of brightness. The crunch of the greens complements the softness of the peppers beautifully.

If you want to amp up the meal, consider whipping up some Mexican-style corn on the side. Just toss some corn with lime juice, cilantro, and a sprinkle of cotija cheese for a tasty twist. You could also serve them with some tortilla chips and guacamole for that perfect party vibe!

And don’t forget about a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro on top of the stuffed peppers right before serving. Trust me, it adds an extra layer of flavor that everyone will love. Enjoy your meal!