Description
Tender bell peppers filled with a savory mix of ground beef, rice, vegetables, and spices, cooked to perfection in the air fryer. Quick, healthy, and flavorful—perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep! Vegetarian variations are just as delicious when using rice and veggies instead of meat.
Ingredients
🛒 Ingredients (for 4 stuffed peppers):
For the Peppers:
4 large bell peppers (any color)
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Filling:
1 lb (450g) ground beef (or 1 ½ cups cooked rice for vegetarian version)
1 cup cooked rice
½ cup diced onions
1 small carrot, finely diced
1 small zucchini, finely diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste
½ cup tomato sauce
½ cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
Instructions
📝 Instructions:
Step 1: Prep the Peppers
Wash and cut the tops off the peppers. Remove seeds and membranes.
Brush peppers lightly with olive oil and season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Step 2: Make the Filling
Heat a skillet over medium heat. Cook onions, carrots, and zucchini for 3–4 minutes until slightly softened.
Add garlic, cook 1 minute.
For meat version: add ground beef, cook until browned.
Stir in cooked rice, tomato sauce, paprika, oregano, chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Step 3: Stuff the Peppers
Spoon filling into each pepper, pressing lightly to pack it. Top with shredded cheese.
Step 4: Cook in Air Fryer
Preheat air fryer to 360°F (182°C).
Place peppers upright in the basket. Cook for 12–18 minutes until peppers are tender and cheese is melted and golden.
Step 5: Serve
Let peppers cool 2–3 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
- Vegetarian Option: Use beans or extra veggies instead of beef.
- Ninja Air Fryer Tip: Cook at 365°F for 15 minutes for extra crisp edges.
- Cheese Variations: Try pepper jack or feta for a twist.
- Make Ahead: Prepare filling the night before and air fry when ready.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish / Air Fryer Recipe
- Method: Air Fry / Stuffed / Quick
- Cuisine: American / Healthy
