why make this recipe
Cheesy Stuffed Peppers are tasty, filling, and easy to make. This dish combines the freshness of bell peppers with a cheesy, hearty filling, giving you a balanced meal in one bite. It’s a fantastic way to use up leftover rice and meat, and it’s perfect for a family dinner or meal prep. Plus, cooking them in an Air Fryer makes the process quicker and leaves you with deliciously tender peppers.
how to make Cheesy Stuffed Peppers
Ingredients
- 4 bell peppers
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 cup ground beef or turkey
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil spray
Directions
- Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds.
- In a bowl, mix cooked rice, ground meat, diced tomatoes, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Stuff the mixture into each bell pepper.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese on top of each stuffed pepper.
- Spray the inside of the Air Fryer basket with olive oil.
- Place the stuffed peppers upright in the basket.
- Cook at 360°F for 15-20 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and cheese is melted.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
how to serve Cheesy Stuffed Peppers
Cheesy Stuffed Peppers are great as a main dish. You can serve them with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal. They are also perfect for lunch the next day, as they taste just as good reheated.
how to store Cheesy Stuffed Peppers
To store leftover Cheesy Stuffed Peppers, let them cool completely. Place them in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze them. Wrap each stuffed pepper tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
tips to make Cheesy Stuffed Peppers
- You can customize the filling by adding other vegetables, like onions or corn, for extra flavor and nutrition.
- For a spicy kick, add some diced jalapeños to the mixture.
- Make sure to choose firm, fresh peppers for the best texture.
- If you don’t have an Air Fryer, you can bake them in the oven at 375°F for about 25-30 minutes.
variation
You can try using quinoa instead of rice for a healthier option. You can also swap the meat for beans or lentils to make a vegetarian version.
FAQs
Can I use other kinds of peppers?
Yes, you can use any type of pepper you like, such as poblano or anaheim peppers. Just adjust the cooking time if the peppers are larger or thicker.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed peppers a day in advance. Just pre-stuff them and store them in the refrigerator. Cook them when you are ready to eat.
What type of cheese is best?
Cheddar cheese is a popular choice, but you can also use mozzarella, pepper jack, or any cheese you prefer. Mix different types for extra flavor!
Cheesy Stuffed Peppers
Ingredients
Method
- Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds.
- In a bowl, mix cooked rice, ground meat, diced tomatoes, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Stuff the mixture into each bell pepper.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese on top of each stuffed pepper.
- Spray the inside of the Air Fryer basket with olive oil.
- Place the stuffed peppers upright in the basket.
- Cook at 360°F for 15-20 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and cheese is melted.
- Serve hot and enjoy! Cheesy Stuffed Peppers are great as a main dish with a side salad or crusty bread.