Let me tell you, these air fryer feta stuffed mini peppers are an absolute game changer! Picture this: tender, sweet mini peppers enveloping a creamy, tangy filling of feta and cream cheese. It’s like a little burst of Mediterranean sunshine in every bite! They’re perfect for gatherings, as a quick snack, or even as a vibrant addition to your meal. Plus, the air fryer makes everything super easy and quick—what’s not to love? Trust me, once you whip these up, they’ll be a staple in your kitchen!
Ingredients List
- 12 mini bell peppers, halved and seeded
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Prepare the Air Fryer Feta Stuffed Mini Peppers Recipe
Now, let’s get down to business! Making these air fryer feta stuffed mini peppers is super simple, and I’m here to guide you through each step. You’ll have them ready in no time, and trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat the Air Fryer
First things first, preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial! Preheating ensures that your peppers cook evenly and get that lovely golden color we’re after. So don’t skip it!
Prepare the Cheese Mixture
While the air fryer is warming up, grab a mixing bowl and combine your feta cheese, softened cream cheese, olive oil, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. I like to use a fork to mash and mix everything together until it’s nicely blended. You want it creamy and spreadable—oh, the smell is heavenly!
Prepare the Mini Peppers
Next, let’s get those mini peppers ready! Carefully cut each pepper in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. You can use a small spoon or your fingers for this—just be gentle! These little beauties will hold all that cheesy goodness, so make sure they’re ready to shine!
Stuff the Peppers
Now comes the fun part! Take your cheese mixture and generously stuff each pepper half. Don’t be shy—pack that filling in there! You want each bite to be bursting with flavor. I usually use a small spoon to help, but your fingers work just fine, too. Just make sure they’re all filled up and looking cute!
Air Fry the Stuffed Peppers
Time to cook! Place the stuffed peppers in the air fryer basket, making sure they’re in a single layer for even cooking. Air fry them for about 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on them—when the peppers are tender and the cheese is slightly golden and bubbling, you know they’re done! Ooh, can you smell that? It’s going to be delicious!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy prep—ready in just 27 minutes!
- Flavor-packed filling with the perfect balance of tangy feta and creamy cream cheese.
- These mini peppers are not only delicious but also colorful and visually appealing!
- Healthy and vegetarian, making them a great option for everyone.
- Perfectly poppable bites—great for parties or casual snacking.
- Versatile seasoning—feel free to customize with your favorite herbs!
- No messy cleanup—thanks to the air fryer, less fuss and more fun.
Tips for Success
Ready to make these air fryer feta stuffed mini peppers absolutely perfect? Here are some of my best tips to ensure everything turns out delicious every time!
- Choose the Right Peppers: Look for mini bell peppers that are firm and vibrant in color. They should feel heavy for their size—this means they’re fresh and ready to hold all that cheesy goodness!
- Adjust the Cheese: Don’t hesitate to experiment with the cheese! If you prefer a milder flavor, you can mix in some mozzarella or goat cheese with the feta. Just keep that creamy texture—incredible!
- Season to Taste: Taste your cheese mixture before stuffing the peppers. If you love a bit of heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. It’s all about your flavor preferences!
- Don’t Overstuff: While it’s tempting to pack in as much filling as possible, be careful not to overflow the peppers. They need a little room to breathe while cooking, or you might end up with a cheesy mess.
- Watch the Time: Every air fryer is a bit different, so keep an eye on the peppers as they cook. If you notice they’re browning too quickly, lower the temperature slightly and continue cooking until tender.
- Let Them Rest: After cooking, give the stuffed peppers a few minutes to cool down. This helps the filling set a bit and makes them easier to eat without burning your mouth!
- Experiment with Toppings: Before serving, consider drizzling a little balsamic glaze or sprinkling fresh herbs on top for a pop of flavor and color. It’s the finishing touch that takes them over the top!
With these tips, you’ll be a pro at making these delightful appetizers! Enjoy the process and don’t be afraid to get creative along the way!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Got some leftovers? No worries! These air fryer feta stuffed mini peppers store beautifully. Just let them cool completely before popping them into an airtight container. They’ll keep in the fridge for about 3-4 days, which is perfect for making ahead of time or saving some for later!
When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheating is super simple. You can either pop them back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until they’re warmed through and the cheese is nice and melty again. Or, if you prefer, you can use a microwave—just be careful not to overdo it, or the peppers might get a bit soggy. A quick 30 seconds to a minute should do the trick!
Whether you’re snacking on them cold or warming them up, they’re still going to be delicious. Enjoy every last bite!
Nutritional Information
So, let’s talk about what you’re getting in each serving of these delightful air fryer feta stuffed mini peppers! Each serving is two stuffed pepper halves, and here’s the estimated breakdown:
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 320mg
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 6g
These little gems are not just tasty, but they’re also packed with flavor and nutrition! Perfect for guilt-free snacking or as a vibrant addition to your meal. Enjoy every scrumptious bite while knowing you’re treating yourself right!
FAQ Section
Can I use other types of cheese?
Absolutely! While feta brings a unique tanginess, feel free to mix in some mozzarella or goat cheese for a different flavor profile. Just keep that creamy texture in mind!
Can I prepare these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese mixture and stuff the peppers a few hours in advance. Just store them in the fridge until you’re ready to air fry them. They make for a fantastic make-ahead appetizer!
What if I can’t find mini bell peppers?
No problem! You can use regular bell peppers and cut them into quarters or even use jalapeños for a spicy kick. Just be mindful of the cooking time, as larger pieces may take a bit longer to cook through.
Can I bake these in the oven instead of using an air fryer?
Of course! If you don’t have an air fryer, you can bake them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes. Just keep an eye on them to get that lovely golden finish!
How do I know when they’re done?
You’ll know they’re ready when the peppers are tender and the cheese gets all melty and slightly golden. The aroma will be absolutely irresistible, so trust your nose!
Can I freeze the stuffed peppers?
Yes, you can! Just make sure they’re completely cooled, then store them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They’ll keep well for about 2-3 months. Thaw them in the fridge before reheating!
What can I serve with these stuffed peppers?
They’re delicious on their own, but you can serve them with a side of tzatziki sauce, a fresh salad, or even some crusty bread. They make a fantastic appetizer or a fun snack!
Are these gluten-free?
Yes! This air fryer feta stuffed mini peppers recipe is naturally gluten-free, making them a great option for gluten-sensitive friends and family!
Air Fryer Feta Stuffed Mini Peppers Recipe: 5-Star Delight
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 24 stuffed pepper halves 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This recipe features mini peppers stuffed with feta cheese, cooked in an air fryer for a quick and tasty appetizer.
Ingredients
- 12 mini bell peppers
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix feta cheese, cream cheese, olive oil, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Cut the mini peppers in half and remove seeds.
- Stuff each pepper half with the cheese mixture.
- Place the stuffed peppers in the air fryer basket.
- Cook for 10-12 minutes or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is slightly golden.
- Remove and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- You can adjust the spices to your taste.
- These can be served warm or at room temperature.
- Feel free to add herbs like basil or parsley for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 stuffed pepper halves
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: air fryer feta stuffed mini peppers recipe
