If you’re craving a flavorful, comforting meal that’s as colorful as it is delicious, let me introduce you to this Easy Air Fryer Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe. These vibrant bell peppers are packed with a juicy, seasoned ground beef and rice mixture, laced with rich tomato flavors and topped with gooey, melted Colby Jack cheese – all made effortlessly in the air fryer for a perfectly tender texture and a quick cooking time. It’s a weeknight winner that brings warmth and satisfaction in every bite, and I can’t wait to share how simple and rewarding it is to make.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this Easy Air Fryer Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe shine. Each component plays a vital role in balancing the savory, tangy, and cheesy flavors that define this dish.
- 4 bell peppers: Choose colorful bell peppers with tops removed and cored for the perfect vessel and a sweet crunch after cooking.
- 1.5 tbsp olive oil: I recommend Bertolli extra virgin for its rich flavor that helps soften the onion and beef beautifully.
- 1 small onion: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth to the ground beef filling.
- 1 lb ground beef: Use fresh ground beef for hearty protein and a meaty base that’s full of flavor.
- 15 oz diced tomatoes: My favorite is Hunt’s for its excellent texture and natural sweetness.
- 8 oz tomato sauce: This enriches the filling with smooth tomato goodness.
- 2 cups rice: Cooked and cooled, the rice gives the stuffing a tender, substantial bite.
- 1.5 tbsp Italian seasoning: A fragrant mix that brightens up every forkful.
- 1.5 tsp garlic powder: Boosts savory notes and warmth without overpowering.
- Salt: Enhances all the flavors perfectly.
- Black pepper: Adds just the right amount of kick and depth.
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes: For a subtle touch of heat that wakes up your palate.
- 2.25 cups Colby Jack cheese: Freshly shredded for creamy, melty topping that seals in all the deliciousness.
How to Make Easy Air Fryer Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Bell Peppers
Start by rinsing your bell peppers, then carefully cut off the tops and remove the seeds and membranes. This creates the perfect little bowls for the stuffing to nestle into. Set aside while you prepare the filling.
Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Ground Beef
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent. Toss in the ground beef and cook until browned and no longer pink, breaking it apart as it cooks. This step builds the meaty, flavorful backbone of your filling.
Step 3: Mix the Filling
Once your beef and onions are ready, stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, cooked rice, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Simmer this mixture briefly to marry the flavors and ensure everything is heated through, then taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Step 4: Stuff the Peppers
Using a spoon, generously fill each bell pepper with the beef and rice mixture. Make sure to pack them nicely so you get a good bite with every forkful. Top each stuffed pepper with a hearty sprinkle of shredded Colby Jack cheese to guarantee that irresistible melty finish.
Step 5: Air Fry to Perfection
Place the stuffed bell peppers upright in the air fryer basket. Cook at 360°F for about 15 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden. The air fryer delivers a wonderfully even cook that keeps the peppers slightly crisp yet perfectly tender.
How to Serve Easy Air Fryer Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or basil over the top to add a fresh, herbal note and a pop of color that makes these beauties even more inviting. A dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of tangy Greek yogurt can also bring cool creaminess to balance the heat and richness.
Side Dishes
These stuffed peppers are so hearty they can easily be the star of your meal, but if you want to add something light, think crisp green salads or steamed vegetables. Roasted potatoes or garlic bread also make excellent companions, soaking up any extra juices.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the stuffed peppers atop a bed of sautéed greens or mixed grains. You can also hollow out mini bell peppers for bite-sized appetizers if you’re hosting a party. Wrapping them in foil and layering with melted cheese can create a more rustic presentation perfect for cozy dinners.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftover stuffed bell peppers to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They maintain their delicious flavors and can easily be reheated for a quick meal the next day.
Freezing
This Easy Air Fryer Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe freezes beautifully. Wrap individual stuffed peppers tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months without significant loss of flavor or texture.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw frozen peppers overnight in the fridge. Warm them in the air fryer at 350°F for 5 to 7 minutes until heated through and the cheese is melty again, or use a microwave for a quicker option, though the air fryer helps keep the peppers perfectly tender.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese in this recipe?
Absolutely! While Colby Jack cheese melts beautifully and adds a mild flavor, you can swap it for mozzarella, cheddar, or even pepper jack if you want a little extra spice.
Is it necessary to cook the rice beforehand?
Yes, precooking the rice is important because the air fryer doesn’t provide enough moisture or cooking time to cook rice from dry. Using cooked and cooled rice ensures the filling has the perfect texture.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Definitely! You can replace the ground beef with cooked lentils, black beans, or a plant-based meat substitute for a hearty vegetarian version without sacrificing flavor.
What size air fryer do I need for this recipe?
A standard 5 to 6 quart air fryer basket fits four stuffed peppers comfortably. If your air fryer is smaller, you may need to cook them in batches.
How spicy is this dish?
The red pepper flakes add a gentle warmth rather than overwhelming heat, making this recipe family-friendly but still full of subtle spice. You can always adjust the quantity to your taste.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Air Fryer Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe is genuinely one of those dishes that feels like a big warm hug on a plate. It’s straightforward, quick, and incredibly satisfying—perfect for busy nights or whenever you want something that looks impressive but is effortless to make. Trust me, once you try it, these colorful, cheesy, and savory stuffed peppers will become a regular favorite in your meal rotation.
Print
Delicious Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Easy Air Fryer Stuffed Bell Peppers recipe offers a quick and delicious way to enjoy a comforting, flavorful meal. Tender bell peppers are filled with a savory mix of ground beef, rice, tomatoes, and seasonings, topped with melty Colby Jack cheese, all cooked perfectly in the air fryer for a satisfying dinner in just 25 minutes.
Ingredients
Bell Peppers
- 4 bell peppers (tops removed and cored)
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 lb ground beef
Tomato Mixture
- 15 oz diced tomatoes (preferably Hunt’s for best texture)
- 8 oz tomato sauce
Rice and Seasonings
- 2 cups cooked rice (cooled to room temperature)
- 1.5 tbsp Italian seasoning
- 1.5 tsp garlic powder
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
Others
- 1.5 tbsp olive oil (extra virgin, Bertolli preferred)
- 2.25 cups Colby Jack cheese, freshly shredded
Instructions
- Prepare the Bell Peppers: Start by removing the tops and coring the 4 bell peppers. Set them aside to be filled later.
- Sauté the Onion and Beef: Heat 1.5 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent. Then add 1 lb of ground beef, breaking it apart and cooking until fully browned and no longer pink.
- Add Tomato Ingredients and Seasonings: Stir in 15 oz diced tomatoes, 8 oz tomato sauce, 1.5 tbsp Italian seasoning, 1.5 tsp garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes. Cook the mixture for 3-5 minutes to combine flavors, stirring occasionally.
- Mix in Cooked Rice: Remove the skillet from heat and fold in 2 cups of cooked, cooled rice. Mix thoroughly to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Stuff the Peppers: Fill each prepared bell pepper cavity generously with the beef and rice mixture, packing lightly to fill.
- Top with Cheese: Sprinkle about 2.25 cups of shredded Colby Jack cheese evenly over the stuffed peppers.
- Air Fry the Peppers: Preheat your air fryer to 360°F (182°C). Place stuffed peppers in the air fryer basket standing upright. Cook for 12-15 minutes or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
- Serve Warm: Carefully remove the stuffed peppers from the air fryer and serve them hot for a comforting meal.
Notes
- Ensure the rice is fully cooked and cooled before mixing to prevent sogginess.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for ground beef for a lighter version.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to taste for desired spiciness.
- Use freshly shredded cheese rather than pre-shredded for better melting and texture.
- If your air fryer is small, cook peppers in batches to avoid overcrowding.
