If you’ve been hunting for the ultimate low-carb snack that doesn’t skimp on flavor, you are going to fall in love with this Air Fryer Mini Peppers Mix. It’s become one of my favorite easy keto recipes because it’s rich, cheesy, and ready in under 30 minutes. Whether you need a quick appetizer for a party or a savory side dish to spice up your dinner rotation, these cream cheese stuffed peppers are the perfect guilt-free treat that the whole family will devour!
Preparation Time: 5 minutes Cooking Time: 20 minutes Servings: 4
Ingredients
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8.0 oz (227 g) Mini Bell Peppers, halved
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1.0 tbsp (0.5 oz / 14 g) Olive Oil
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1.0 tbsp (3 g) Cilantro, chopped
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8.0 oz (227 g) Cream Cheese, soft
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1.0 cup (4.0 oz / 113 g) Cheddar Cheese, shredded
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Salt and Black Pepper to the taste
Directions
- Grease a baking dish that fits comfortably inside the air fryer basket with the olive oil and arrange the bell peppers inside.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped cilantro, salt, and black pepper. Whisk or mix well until fully combined.
- Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the bell peppers in the dish.
- Place the dish into the air fryer and cook at 370 degrees F (188 degrees C) for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Divide the peppers between plates and serve immediately as a side dish.
Nutrition per Serving Calories: 361 kcal Total Fat: 33g Total Carbohydrates: 6.5g Dietary Fiber: 1g Net Carbohydrates: 5.5g Protein: 11.5g
Pro Tips for the Best Results
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Softening is Key: Make sure your 8.0 oz of cream cheese is fully softened to room temperature before mixing. If it’s too cold, it will be lumpy and won’t blend smoothly with the cheddar and cilantro. If you are in a rush, microwave it in 10-second intervals until soft.
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Shred Your Own Cheese: For the best melt and texture, buy a block of cheddar and shred the 1.0 cup yourself. Pre-shredded bagged cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can add hidden carbs and prevent the cheese from melting into that gooey, golden perfection we want.
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Dry the Peppers: After washing and halving your mini peppers, pat them completely dry with a paper towel. If they are wet, the filling might slide off during cooking, and the peppers will steam instead of roasting nicely.
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Watch Your Air Fryer: Every air fryer model circulates heat a bit differently. Start checking the dish around the 15-minute mark. You are looking for the peppers to be tender and the cheese to be bubbly and slightly browned.
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Flavor Boosts: Want to kick it up a notch? Add a pinch of garlic powder or smoked paprika to the cheese mixture. For non-vegetarians, adding 2.0 tbsp of crispy bacon bits creates a delicious “jalapeño popper” vibe without the intense heat.
Frequently Asked Questions Can I make this recipe in the oven if I don’t have an air fryer? Absolutely! If you don’t have an air fryer, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the stuffed peppers in a baking dish and bake for about 20 to 25 minutes, or until the peppers are soft and the cheese is golden brown and bubbly.
Are mini sweet peppers spicy? No, not at all. Mini bell peppers are sweet, crisp, and mild. They have zero heat, making them a perfect vehicle for the rich cream cheese and cheddar filling. They are very different from Jalapeños or Habaneros.
Is this Mini Peppers Mix keto-friendly? Yes, this recipe is excellent for a keto diet. It focuses on high-fat ingredients like cream cheese and cheddar cheese while keeping the carb count very low. With approximately 5.5g of net carbs per serving, it fits perfectly into a low-carb lifestyle.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. To reheat, place them back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 3 to 5 minutes. You can also microwave them, but the peppers might lose a bit of their texture.
Can I prepare these peppers ahead of time? Yes, you can prep this dish in advance. You can wash, cut, and stuff the peppers with the cheese mixture, then cover them tightly and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. When you are ready to eat, just pop the dish straight into the air fryer.
I hope this Air Fryer Mini Peppers Mix becomes a new favorite in your low-carb rotation! It really proves that healthy eating doesn’t have to mean sacrificing rich, comfort-food flavors. This dish is versatile enough to whip up on a busy weeknight yet impressive enough to serve as a party appetizer. Give it a try this week, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different cheese blends to make it your own. If you give this recipe a go, please leave a comment below—I’d love to hear how it turned out for you!
