Air Fryer Stuffed Peppers

Step 1: Prepare the Bell Peppers

1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
   • Preheat your air fryer to 360°F (182°C) for about 5 minutes.
2. Cut and Clean Peppers:
   • Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes.
   • If the peppers do not stand upright, you can slightly trim the bottoms to make them stable. Be careful not to cut through the bottom completely.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

3. Cook the Ground Meat:
   • Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
   • Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
   • Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook until browned and cooked through, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
4. Combine Ingredients:
   • In a large bowl, combine the cooked ground meat, cooked rice, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.

Step 3: Stuff the Peppers

5. Fill the Peppers:
   • Spoon the filling mixture into each bell pepper, packing it in firmly but not overstuffing.

Step 4: Cook the Peppers

6. Arrange in Air Fryer:
   • Place the stuffed peppers upright in the air fryer basket. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook them in batches.
7. Air Fry:
   • Cook the stuffed peppers in the air fryer at 360°F (182°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the filling is heated through.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

8. Garnish:
   • Once the peppers are cooked, remove them from the air fryer and let them cool slightly.
   • Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
9. Serve:
   • Serve the stuffed peppers hot, either on their own or with a side salad or crusty bread.

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Stuffed Peppers

• Bell Pepper Size: Choose peppers that are uniform in size to ensure even cooking.
• Filling Variations: Customize the filling by adding vegetables like corn, black beans, or spinach. You can also use quinoa or couscous instead of rice.
• Cheese Options: Use your favorite cheese blend or switch it up with pepper jack for a spicy kick or gouda for a smoky flavor.
• Leftovers: These stuffed peppers reheat well and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer or microwave until warmed through.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Stuffed Peppers are a delicious and convenient way to enjoy a classic comfort food with a modern twist. The combination of savory ground meat, hearty rice, and melty cheese all packed inside a tender bell pepper makes for a satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, these stuffed peppers are sure to become a favorite. Enjoy the simplicity and flavor of this delightful dish!