Step 1: Prep the Peppers
- Wash and Slice: Begin by washing the bell peppers thoroughly. Slice off the tops, keeping them intact to use as lids if desired. Carefully remove the seeds and membranes from the inside, being cautious not to tear the flesh of the peppers.
- Season: Lightly brush the outside of each pepper with olive oil. Season the inside and outside with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
- Cook the Meat: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add the chopped onion to the skillet with the meat. Cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, cooked meat mixture, corn, black beans, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, and spices (chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano). Mix thoroughly. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Optional Cilantro: For an added burst of freshness, mix in the chopped cilantro.
Step 3: Stuff the Peppers
- Fill the Peppers: Spoon the prepared filling into each bell pepper, packing it tightly but gently. The filling should be heaped above the rim of the pepper.
- Drizzle with Tomato Sauce: For extra flavor and moisture, drizzle a small amount of tomato sauce over each stuffed pepper.
Step 4: Air Fry
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 360°F (180°C) and let it preheat for about 3 minutes.
- Arrange the Peppers: Place the stuffed peppers in the air fryer basket. Ensure they are standing upright and not touching to allow for even cooking.
- Cook: Air fry the peppers for 12-15 minutes. The exact time may vary depending on the size of the peppers and the specific air fryer model. The peppers should be tender, and the filling should be heated through and slightly crispy on top.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Add Cheese: For a gooey finish, sprinkle additional shredded cheese on top of each pepper during the last 2 minutes of cooking.
- Garnish: Once done, carefully remove the peppers from the air fryer. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or cilantro for a touch of color and freshness.
Tips for Perfection
- Pepper Size: Choose peppers that are similar in size to ensure even cooking. Smaller peppers may cook faster, so keep an eye on them.
- Cooking Time: Adjust the cooking time based on your air fryer’s size and power. If your air fryer has a smaller basket, you may need to cook the peppers in batches.
- Meal Prep: Stuffed peppers can be prepared ahead of time. Assemble them, store them in the refrigerator, and then air fry when ready to eat. This is perfect for busy weeknights!
Why Air Fryer Stuffed Peppers?
The air fryer’s convection heat technology ensures that your peppers are cooked evenly, with a delightful crisp on the outside and tender filling on the inside. This method also requires less oil compared to traditional baking, making it a healthier choice without sacrificing taste.
Enjoy the delightful combination of savory beef, creamy cheese, and zesty spices in every bite. These air fryer stuffed peppers are not just a meal; they’re a delicious, wholesome experience that will have your taste buds dancing with joy.
Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress. So go ahead, fire up your air fryer, and indulge in the ultimate stuffed pepper experience!