Air Fryer Stuffed Mini Peppers Recipe

Table of Contents

If you’re looking for an easy, keto-friendly appetizer that’s ready in under 20 minutes, these Air Fryer Stuffed Mini Peppers are perfect! Filled with creamy cheese, savory pepperoni, and a blend of spices, these mini peppers are crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside, making them the perfect snack for game days, parties, or any occasion. Let’s dive into the details and show you how to make them!

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 7 minutes
Total Time: 17 minutes

Equipment Needed

Air fryer
Small mixing bowl

Ingredients

10 sweet mini peppers
150 g cream cheese (softened)
⅓ cup cheddar cheese (grated)
⅓ cup pepperoni (chopped)
1 teaspoon garlic granules
1 teaspoon onion granules
½ Tablespoon olive oil
Salt (to taste)
Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
Red pepper flakes (to taste)

Instructions

Prepare the Peppers
- Cut each mini pepper in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes.
- Brush the outside of each pepper half with olive oil to help them crisp up in the air fryer.
- Set the prepared peppers aside on a plate.
Prepare the Filling
- In a small mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, cheddar cheese, chopped pepperoni, garlic granules, onion granules, chili flakes, salt, and black pepper.
- Mix everything together until fully combined.
Stuff the Peppers
- Fill each pepper half with the cream cheese mixture.
- Arrange the stuffed peppers in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they’re not overcrowded to allow for even cooking.
Air Fry the Stuffed Peppers
- Air fry at 180°C (365°F) for 7-9 minutes until the filling is golden brown and the peppers are tender. Keep an eye on them towards the end to prevent overcooking.
Serve
- Carefully remove the stuffed mini peppers from the air fryer. Arrange them on a plate and allow them to cool slightly before serving.

Notes

Storage: These stuffed peppers are best enjoyed fresh and hot, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When reheating, place them back in the air fryer for a few minutes to warm them up and restore their crispness.

Nutritional Information (per stuffed mini pepper)

Calories: 48 kcal
Carbohydrates: 2g
Protein: 1g
Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 11mg
Sodium: 66mg
Potassium: 49mg
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 1g
Vitamin A: 558 IU
Vitamin C: 18mg
Calcium: 22mg
Iron: 1mg

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I use a different type of cheese instead of cheddar?

A1: Absolutely! You can use mozzarella, pepper jack, or any other cheese you like. Just keep in mind that some cheeses may melt differently or have a stronger flavor than cheddar.

Q2: Can I make these stuffed mini peppers vegetarian?

A2: Yes, you can easily omit the pepperoni for a vegetarian version. You can also add in some finely chopped veggies like mushrooms or spinach for added flavor and texture.

Q3: How do I ensure the peppers don’t get soggy?

A3: Make sure to brush the peppers lightly with olive oil to help them crisp up. Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket, and cook them at the right temperature (180°C or 365°F) to get a golden and crispy exterior.

Q4: Can I freeze the stuffed peppers before cooking?

A4: Yes, you can freeze the stuffed mini peppers before cooking. Arrange them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze them for 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. To cook, simply air fry them from frozen for a few extra minutes.

Q5: How can I spice these up more?

A5: If you enjoy extra heat, you can add more chili flakes, or even use spicy pepperoni or jalapeños. You could also drizzle some hot sauce on top after cooking.

Q6: Can I make this recipe with larger peppers?

A6: Yes, you can use larger bell peppers, but be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly since larger peppers will need more time to soften. Cut them into smaller halves or quarters, depending on the size, to ensure they cook evenly.

Conclusion

These Air Fryer Stuffed Mini Peppers are not only quick and easy but also full of flavor and texture. Perfect for keto diets and ideal as appetizers or party snacks, they are bound to be a hit with anyone who tries them. Plus, the air fryer makes them crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside, without the mess of traditional frying. Enjoy your flavorful stuffed peppers in no time!