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Air Fryer Queso-Stuffed Peppers are the perfect combination of savory and creamy, making them a great choice for a snack, appetizer, or even a light dinner.
The air fryer allows you to cook them quickly and evenly, achieving a crispy exterior with a perfectly melted queso filling.
Whether you’re preparing them for a weeknight meal or a party, these stuffed peppers are guaranteed to impress.
This recipe provides a flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, with the added indulgence of queso cheese.
If you love bold flavors and a bit of heat, these Air Fryer Queso-Stuffed Peppers will be a hit.
What Makes Air Fryer Queso-Stuffed Peppers So Special?
The magic of this dish lies in the way the air fryer cooks the peppers.
The air fryer ensures the peppers have a perfectly crisped outside, while the inside stays tender and the queso filling becomes beautifully melted.
You get all the indulgence of cheesy stuffed peppers but with less oil, making it a healthier alternative to frying.
These peppers are not only quick to prepare but also incredibly versatile.
You can experiment with different types of peppers, from mild bell peppers to spicy jalapeños, catering to a wide range of tastes.
The combination of creamy queso cheese and the slight crunch from the air fryer makes every bite irresistible.
What makes this dish even more enjoyable is the customizable nature of the filling.
You can add different ingredients like beans, ground beef, or chicken for a more substantial meal.
The crispy exterior with the gooey cheese filling creates a perfect balance of textures and flavors.
Ingredients for Air Fryer Queso-Stuffed Peppers
For this recipe, you’ll need a few basic ingredients.
Start with fresh peppers, like bell peppers or jalapeños, depending on your preference for sweetness or heat.
You’ll also need queso cheese—this can be a store-bought variety or homemade, depending on how much time you want to spend.
To season the filling, you’ll need spices like cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, and salt.
These seasonings will add a bold flavor profile to the queso.
If you want a protein-packed filling, consider adding cooked ground beef, chicken, or even beans for a vegetarian option.
You’ll also want some olive oil or cooking spray to coat the peppers before air frying.
This helps ensure they cook evenly and gives them a nice crispness.
Optional toppings like fresh cilantro, sour cream, or guacamole can take your Air Fryer Queso-Stuffed Peppers to the next level.
These ingredients are easy to find, and many can be customized to fit your tastes, making this dish a perfect choice for any occasion.
How to Prepare Air Fryer Queso-Stuffed Peppers
Start by washing your peppers thoroughly.
Next, slice off the tops of the peppers and remove the seeds and membranes from the inside.
If you’re using bell peppers, you may want to cut them in half to make them easier to stuff.
For a spicier option, jalapeños work well—just slice them in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
Prepare your queso filling by combining melted queso cheese with your choice of seasonings.
Add a pinch of cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, and salt to taste.
If you’re adding a protein, like ground beef or beans, mix them into the cheese mixture.
Carefully stuff each pepper with the queso mixture.
Make sure to pack the filling in tightly so it doesn’t spill out during cooking.
Once stuffed, place the peppers on a plate or tray and set them aside while you prepare for air frying.
Cooking Air Fryer Queso-Stuffed Peppers
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3 minutes.
While it’s heating up, lightly coat the stuffed peppers with olive oil or cooking spray.
This will help the peppers crisp up nicely.
Arrange the stuffed peppers in the air fryer basket, making sure they are spaced out and not touching.
Air fry for 8-10 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the queso filling is bubbling and golden.
Check halfway through to make sure they are cooking evenly, and if necessary, give the basket a shake.
For extra crispiness, you can cook them for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Once done, remove the peppers from the air fryer and let them cool slightly before serving.
Optional: Garnish with fresh cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, or a side of guacamole.
Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Variations to Try with Air Fryer Queso-Stuffed Peppers
You can customize the filling to suit your tastes and dietary preferences.
Try adding ground beef or chicken for a heartier option.
For a vegetarian version, swap in black beans, refried beans, or lentils for protein.
For extra flavor, add sautéed onions, garlic, or corn to the filling mixture.
If you love a bit of heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the queso.
You can also experiment with different types of cheese in the filling, such as pepper jack for a spicier kick, or a creamy white queso for a smoother texture.
For a smokier flavor, try adding some chopped bacon or chorizo to the filling.
Alternatively, you can use smaller peppers, like mini bell peppers or sweet peppers, for bite-sized versions perfect for appetizers.
If you prefer a gluten-free version, simply ensure that your queso and seasonings are gluten-free.
Conclusion
Air Fryer Queso-Stuffed Peppers are a deliciously indulgent and customizable dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
The air fryer provides an easy, healthier way to get crispy, cheesy stuffed peppers in no time.
Whether you enjoy them as a quick snack, a flavorful appetizer, or a complete meal, these peppers are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Feel free to get creative with your filling ingredients, and don’t forget to experiment with different peppers for varied heat levels.
Once you try these queso-stuffed peppers, they’ll likely become a favorite in your regular recipe rotation.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make Air Fryer Queso-Stuffed Peppers ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the peppers and stuff them ahead of time. Simply store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook them. When ready, air fry as usual. - Can I use a different type of cheese for the filling?
Absolutely! You can experiment with different cheeses like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for varied flavors. - How can I make these peppers spicier?
You can add diced jalapeños, chili flakes, or hot sauce to the filling to ramp up the heat. - Can I freeze the stuffed peppers?
Yes, you can freeze the stuffed peppers before cooking. Simply freeze them on a tray, then transfer them to a storage bag. Air fry directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time. - What should I serve with Air Fryer Queso-Stuffed Peppers?
These peppers are great on their own or served with a side of guacamole, salsa, or sour cream. You can also pair them with a fresh salad or tortilla chips for extra crunch.
Air Fryer Queso-Stuffed Peppers
Equipment
- Air Fryer – 1 unit
- Knife: 1 unit
- Cutting Board: 1 unit
- Mixing Bowl (1 unit)
- Spoon or small spatula for stuffing (1 unit)
- Olive oil spray (1 unit)
Ingredients
- 4 bell peppers or 8 jalapeños
- 1 cup queso cheese shredded
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or cooking spray
- Optional: ½ cup cooked ground beef or black beans for a heartier filling
- Garnishes: sour cream cilantro, guacamole (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes.
- Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. If using jalapeños, slice them in half and remove the seeds.
- In a bowl, mix the shredded queso cheese with cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, and salt.
- Add any optional ingredients like ground beef or black beans to the cheese mixture.
- Stuff the peppers with the queso mixture, packing it in tightly.
- Lightly coat the stuffed peppers with olive oil or spray them with cooking spray.
- Place the peppers in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not touching each other.
- Air fry for 8-10 minutes, until the peppers are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Serve with optional garnishes like sour cream, cilantro, or guacamole.
Notes
- If you prefer a spicier dish, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the queso mixture.
- For a vegetarian option, substitute the ground beef with black beans or refried beans.
- To freeze, prepare the stuffed peppers and place them on a tray. Once frozen, transfer to a storage bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Air fry from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
- Experiment with different types of cheese for a unique flavor. Pepper jack cheese adds an extra kick, while white queso offers a creamy texture.
- If you don’t have an air fryer, you can bake the stuffed peppers at 375°F for 15-20 minutes until they’re tender and golden.
