Air Fryer Cream Cheese Stuffed Peppers are the perfect blend of flavor and nutrition, making them an ideal dish for health-conscious individuals and families. This recipe not only satisfies your taste buds but also offers a healthier alternative to traditional stuffed peppers. With the convenience of an air fryer, you can whip up this delightful dish in no time, making it a go-to for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Let’s dive into the benefits of using an air fryer, the ingredients you’ll need, and how to create this mouthwatering meal!
Ingredients Needed
To make Air Fryer Cream Cheese Stuffed Peppers, you will need the following ingredients:
Main Ingredients:
Bell Peppers: 4 medium-sized (any color)
Cream Cheese: 8 oz, softened (can substitute with dairy-free cream cheese for a vegan option)
Shredded Cheese: 1 cup (cheddar, mozzarella, or a dairy-free alternative)
Garlic Powder: 1 tsp
Onion Powder: 1 tsp
Salt and Pepper: to taste
Fresh Herbs: Optional (like parsley or chives for garnish)
Optional Add-ins:
Cooked Ground Meat: 1 cup (beef, turkey, or chicken for added protein)
Vegetables: Chopped spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra nutrition
Spices: Cumin, paprika, or Italian seasoning for a flavor boost
Cooking Instructions
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Prepare the Peppers: Start by washing the bell peppers. Cut the tops off and remove the seeds and membranes. Set aside.
Make the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. If you’re using any optional add-ins like cooked ground meat or chopped vegetables, mix them in as well until everything is well combined.
Stuff the Peppers: Using a spoon, generously fill each bell pepper with the cream cheese mixture. Press down gently to ensure they are packed well.
Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for about 3-5 minutes.
Air Fry the Peppers: Place the stuffed peppers in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the filling is bubbly and golden.
Serve: Carefully remove the peppers from the air fryer. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and serve warm.
Tips for Perfecting Your Air Fryer Cream Cheese Stuffed Peppers
Choose the Right Peppers: Opt for medium-sized bell peppers for even cooking. Mini peppers can also be used for bite-sized appetizers.
Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add different spices or herbs to the cream cheese filling to customize the flavor to your liking.
Make it a Meal: Serve these stuffed peppers alongside a fresh salad or whole grain for a complete meal.
Store Leftovers: Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for a quick meal.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information per stuffed pepper (without optional add-ins):
Calories: 150
Protein: 6g
Fat: 10g
Carbohydrates: 8g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 2g
WThis dish is not only low in calories but also packed with protein and healthy fats, making it a great option for anyone looking to maintain a balanced diet.
Conclusion
Air Fryer Cream Cheese Stuffed Peppers are a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy, delicious meal that’s easy to prepare. With the convenience of the air fryer, you can have a satisfying dish ready in just 20 minutes. We encourage you to try this recipe and share your experiences with us! Whether you’re cooking for yourself or for a family gathering, these stuffed peppers are sure to impress. Happy cooking!
