Looking for a snack that’s big on flavor but low on carbs? You’ve found it! These Air Fryer Stuffed Mini Peppers are my go-to for a quick, cheesy, and satisfying bite. They’re loaded with a rich cream cheese and cheddar filling, all packed into sweet, tender mini peppers. Ready in under 30 minutes, they’re the perfect guilt-free appetizer for your next get-together or a vibrant side dish to brighten up any weeknight meal. Trust me, everyone will be reaching for seconds!
Ingredients
• 8.0 oz / 227 g Mini Bell Peppers, halved
• 1.0 tbsp / 0.5 oz / 14 g Olive Oil
• 1.0 tbsp / 3 g Cilantro, chopped
• 8.0 oz / 227 g Cream Cheese, soft
• 1.0 cup / 4.0 oz / 113 g Cheddar Cheese, shredded
• Salt and Black Pepper to the taste
Instructions
1. Directions
2. Lightly grease an air-fryer-safe baking dish with olive oil. Arrange the halved mini peppers in a single layer inside the dish.
3. In a separate bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, chopped cilantro, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is smooth and fully incorporated.
4. Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the top of the mini peppers in the dish.
5. Place the dish into the air fryer basket. Cook at 370°F / 188°C for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly with golden-brown spots.
6. Carefully remove the dish from the air fryer. Let it cool for a minute before serving.
Nutritional Information
• 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
• Softening is Key: For the smoothest filling, ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature. If it’s cold, the filling will be lumpy. In a pinch, microwave it in 10-second bursts until soft.
• Shred Your Own Cheese: For the ultimate gooey melt, shred a block of cheddar yourself. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can prevent it from melting perfectly.
• Dry the Peppers: After washing and halving the mini peppers, pat them completely dry. Removing excess moisture helps the filling adhere and allows the peppers to roast instead of steam.
• Flavor Boosts: Don’t be afraid to customize! Add a pinch of garlic powder or smoked paprika to the cheese mixture. For a savory, non-vegetarian twist, mix in 2 tablespoons of crispy, crumbled bacon.
FAQ
Q: Are these air fryer stuffed mini peppers keto-friendly
A: Yes, with only 5.5g of net carbohydrates per serving, these stuffed mini peppers are a great low-carb and keto-friendly snack or appetizer.
Q: How long do you cook stuffed mini peppers in the air fryer
A: Cook the stuffed mini peppers at 370°F (188°C) for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted, bubbly, and has golden-brown spots.
Q: Why is my cream cheese filling lumpy
A: Your cream cheese filling may be lumpy if the cream cheese is too cold. For the smoothest consistency, ensure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature before mixing. You can microwave it in 10-second bursts if you’re short on time.
Q: Can I add other ingredients to the cheese filling
A: Absolutely! You can customize the filling by adding a pinch of garlic powder or smoked paprika. For a non-vegetarian option, mix in two tablespoons of crispy, crumbled bacon.
