Air Fryer Stuffed Peppers
Recipe Tested & Approved by Mia Hartwell
Every recipe is developed, cooked, and tested by Mia in a real home kitchen using everyday ingredients to ensure reliable, repeatable results.
Bell peppers filled with seasoned beef and rice, cooked in the air fryer for a faster take on the classic. The peppers turn tender with lightly charred edges in about 20 minutes.
By Mia HartwellUpdated December 15, 2025
Developed using tested cooking methods — cook to the temperatures given and adjust times to your equipment.
Why you'll love this recipe
- A faster, air-fried take on stuffed peppers
- 28g of protein per serving
- Tender peppers with lightly charred edges
- A smart way to use leftover rice
Air Fryer Stuffed Peppers
40 min totalServes 4
Nutrition (per serving)
Values are estimates. See our disclaimer for details.
- Calories
- 410kcal
- Protein
- 28g
- Carbs
- 30g
- Fat
- 19g
- Fiber
- 4g
- Sugar
- 7g
Step-by-Step Instructions
- 1
Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high until no longer pink, about 7 minutes; drain. Add the onion and cook 3 minutes, then the garlic for 1 minute. Stir in the rice, marinara, and Italian seasoning. Confirm the beef reached 160°F (71°C). Season to taste.
- 2
Spoon the filling into the pepper halves.
- 3
Preheat the air fryer to 360°F (182°C) for 3 minutes.
- 4
Place the stuffed peppers in the basket and air fry 12-15 minutes until the peppers are tender.
- 5
Top with the mozzarella and air fry 2-3 minutes more until melted and bubbling.
- 6
Rest a few minutes and serve.
Pro Tips for the Best Results
- Halve the peppers so they fit the basket and cook faster than whole ones.
- Pre-cook the filling fully since the air fryer time is mainly to soften the peppers and melt the cheese.
- Use pre-cooked rice (great for leftovers) so the filling just needs combining.
- Add the cheese near the end so it melts without overcooking.
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How to Cook Air Fryer Stuffed Peppers
New to this dish? Follow along with the detailed guide below — we break down each stage so you get perfect results the very first time.
Cook the filling first
Brown the beef to 160°F (71°C), drain it, and combine it with rice, sauce, and seasoning into a fully cooked, flavorful filling. Since the air fryer time mainly softens the peppers, the filling should be ready to eat before it goes in.
Stuff and air fry
Halving the peppers helps them fit and cook faster than upright whole peppers. Air fry until the peppers are tender with lightly charred edges — a flavor you don't get from boiling or steaming them.
Melt the cheese
Add the mozzarella near the end and air fry just until melted and bubbling. A short rest lets the filling settle so the peppers hold together when you serve them.
Storage & Make-Ahead
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days; reheat in the air fryer or microwave. Stuffed peppers also freeze well for up to 3 months.
Serving Suggestions
This air fryer stuffed peppers pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad, crusty bread, or your favorite grain. Add a simple side of roasted vegetables for a complete, satisfying dinner the whole family will enjoy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to pre-cook the peppers?+
No — the air fryer softens them as they cook. For very soft peppers, air fry them empty for 3-4 minutes first.
Can I make them vegetarian?+
Yes — swap the beef for cooked lentils, beans, or extra vegetables and rice.
Can I use ground turkey?+
Yes — season the same way and cook the turkey to 165°F (74°C).
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