Ninja Air Fryer Stuffed Peppers with Rice and Stuffing Variations
Air fryer minced beef stuffed peppers bring together the sweetness of the peppers and the savoury taste of the minced beef making a delicious starter or meal.
In addition to being delicious, air fryer stuffed peppers are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Bell peppers, especially when they retain their vibrant colours through air frying, are rich in vitamin C and vitamin A, which boost immunity and promote healthy skin.
The filling, with its lean protein, provides a well-rounded meal that will keep you satisfied and nourished.
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Ingredients
- 4 large bell peppers (assorted colours)
- 454g lean beef mince
- 200g cooked rice or quinoa
- 1 medium diced onion
- 2 minced garlic cloves
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt & Pepper
- 115g grated cheddar cheese
Note: Feel free to adjust the quantities according to your preferences and serving size.
How To Cook Air Fryer Stuffed Peppers
Preheat your air fryer to 200C/400F.
Slice the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes from the inside.
Once the air fryer has preheated, place the empty peppers into the air fryer and air fry for 6 minutes. (I experimented and partially cooking the peppers works better).
In a suitable air fryer container add the minced beef, breaking it up into smaller pieces with a silicon spatula or tool.
Air Fry at 200C/400F until the minced beef has browned. Once the meat has browned add the onion, garlic, cumin, oregano, paprika and season. Cook for a further 5 minutes.
Place the cooked rice or cooked quinoa into a bowl.
Remove the minced beef from the air fryer.
Add the minced beef to the rice and mix everything.
Stuff the hollowed bell peppers with the minced beef mixture, ensuring they are evenly filled.
Air Fryer Temperature For Stuffed Peppers
Line the air fryer basket with foil or greaseproof paper to catch any spills.
Place the stuffed peppers in the air fryer basket.
Air fry at 200C/400F for approximately 12-15 minutes or until the peppers have softened and the filling is heated through.
Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the stuffed peppers during the last few minutes of cooking. This allows the cheese to melt and create a golden topping.
Once cooked, carefully remove the stuffed peppers from the air fryer and let them cool slightly before serving.
Tips for Perfectly Cooked Stuffed Peppers
- Choose peppers that are similar in size for even cooking. If they do not sit properly take a small slice off the bottom of the pepper or slice lengthways.
- Cook the peppers for a few minutes to start the softening process.
- Precook the beef filling before stuffing it into the peppers.
- Don’t overstuff the peppers to avoid uneven cooking and spillage.
- Adjust the cooking time and temperature based on your air fryer model.
- Allow the stuffed peppers to rest for a few minutes after cooking to let the flavours settle.
Stuffed Peppers Variations
While the classic recipe for air fryer minced beef stuffed peppers is delicious, why not explore some creative variations?
Here are a few ideas to inspire you:
1. Mediterranean Twist: Greek-Style Stuffed Peppers
Add crumbled feta cheese and chopped Kalamata olives to the filling mixture.
Sprinkle some fresh dill and drizzle a bit of lemon juice over the stuffed peppers before air frying.
Serve with a dollop of tzatziki sauce.
2. Tex-Mex Delight: Spicy Stuffed Peppers
Try adding diced jalapeños, corn and black beans to the filling.
Season with chilli powder, cayenne pepper, and a pinch of cumin for an extra layer of spice.
Top with a sprinkle of shredded Monterey Jack cheese and serve with a side of creamy guacamole.
3. Italian Caprese Stuffed Peppers
For a taste of Italy replace the minced beef with a mixture of diced tomatoes, fresh mozzarella cheese, and chopped basil leaves.
Drizzle a balsamic glaze over the peppers before air frying to add a tangy sweetness.
Serve with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.
4. Vegetarian Quinoa and Vegetable Stuffed Peppers
If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the minced beef with cooked quinoa and an assortment of sautéed vegetables such as courgettes, mushrooms, and spinach.
Season with your favourite herbs and spices, and top with a sprinkle of crumbled goat cheese.
More Air Fryer Recipes
All Varieties of Air Fryer Vegetables Made Simple
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Quick Baked Apples With Delicious Fillings In The Air Fryer
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use A Different Type Of Meat For The Filling?
While minced beef is the classic choice, you can experiment with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based alternatives like lentils or textured vegetable protein for a vegetarian twist.
How Do I Store Leftover Stuffed Peppers?
Place any remaining stuffed peppers in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 200C/400F for 6-8 minutes.
Freezing The Stuffed Peppers?
You can freeze stuffed peppers by wrapping each pepper individually in cling film and placing them in a freezer-safe container.
They can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating. Reheat in the air fryer at 200C/400F for 6-8 minutes.
What Side Dishes Go With Air Fryer Minced Beef Stuffed Peppers?
Stuffed peppers go beautifully with a fresh garden salad, garlic bread, or even roasted potatoes. The choice is yours!
Preparing The Stuffing Ahead Of Time?
Prepare the stuffing mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to stuff and air fry the peppers.
Making Stuffed Peppers In A Traditional Oven Instead Of An Air Fryer?
Yes, you can. Simply preheat your oven to 190C / 380F and bake the stuffed peppers for approximately 25-30 minutes or until the peppers are tender and the filling is heated through.
Recommended Air Fryer Accessories
This oil spray bottle offers the convenience of both spraying and pouring oil, making it perfect for air frying. Made from food-grade, BPA-free PP material and thick, unbreakable lead-free glass, this cooking oil bottle features a transparent design that allows users to easily monitor the oil level. With a capacity of 500ml, the dispenser reduces the frequency of refills. Its wide mouth opening makes it easy to add oil without spills or splatters. The cooking spray bottle helps control the amount of oil used while pouring or spraying. The olive oil spray bottle is designed to be leak-proof. Its front-facing nozzle and rear comfortable handle enable users to achieve a fine, uniform mist while pouring or spraying oil, ensuring a clean and mess-free experience.
Features a built-in drainage shelf that removes up to 150ml of fat and oil from your food without compromising flavour. The thickened 3mm flexible handles provide a comfortable and secure grip for easy removal from the air fryer. Avoid handling the liner by hand immediately after use when it’s hot. Add water below the drainage shelf to transform the air fryer liner into a microwave steamer, perfect for steaming, baking, roasting, and reheating in the air fryer. Made from food-grade silicone, ensuring safety and quality, keeping your food free from harmful elements.
Air Fryer Stuffed Peppers
Ingredients
- 4 large bell peppers (assorted colours)
- 454g lean beef mince
- 200g cooked rice or quinoa
- 1 medium diced onion
- 2 minced garlic cloves
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt & Pepper
- 115g grated cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 200C/400F.
- Slice the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes from the inside.
- Once the air fryer has preheated, place the empty peppers into the air fryer and air fry for 6 minutes. (I experimented and partially cooking the peppers works better).
- In a suitable air fryer container add the minced beef, breaking it up into smaller pieces with a silicon spatula or tool.
- Air Fry at 200C/400F until the minced beef has browned. Once the meat has browned add the onion, garlic, cumin, oregano, paprika and season. Cook for a further 5 minutes.
- Place the cooked rice or cooked quinoa into a bowl.
- Remove the minced beef from the air fryer.
- Add the minced beef to the rice and mix everything together.
- Stuff the hollowed bell peppers generously with the minced beef mixture, ensuring they are evenly filled.
- Place the stuffed peppers in the air fryer basket. Air fry at 200C/400F for approximately 12-15 minutes or until the peppers have softened and the filling is heated through.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the stuffed peppers during the last few minutes of cooking. This allows the cheese to melt and create a golden topping.
- Once cooked, carefully remove the stuffed peppers from the air fryer and let them cool slightly before serving.
Notes
Check the blog for stuffed pepper variations.
The nutritional value is approximate.
