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Air Fryer Taco-Stuffed Bell Pepper

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Air Fryer Taco-Stuffed Bell Peppers offer a creative and comforting twist on traditional taco fillings with bold, zesty flavors, tender crispy peppers, and creamy cheese in a quick air fryer method.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Mexican-Inspired

Ingredients
  

  • 4 bell peppers halved and seeded
  • 1 pound ground meat (beef, turkey, or chicken) lean, choose your preference
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil for brushing peppers and cooking filling
  • 1 small onion diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon taco seasoning blend of chili powder, cumin, garlic, and onion powders
  • ½ cup diced tomatoes or salsa adds moisture and acidity
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend) divided for filling and topping
  • ¼ cup fresh cilantro chopped, for garnish
  • salt to taste
  • black pepper to taste
  • optional beans or rice optional: to bulk up the filling or for vegetarian option

Equipment

  • Air Fryer To cook the stuffed bell peppers evenly and crisply
  • Large skillet To cook the taco filling
  • Knife To cut and seed the bell peppers
  • Mixing Spoon To stir and mix ingredients

Method
 

  1. Slice bell peppers in half lengthwise and remove seeds. Lightly brush with olive oil and sprinkle with salt.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and sauté diced onion and minced garlic until fragrant and translucent.
  3. Add ground meat to skillet and cook thoroughly, breaking it up as it browns.
  4. Stir in taco seasoning and diced tomatoes or salsa. Simmer mixture until thickened and flavors meld, about 5 minutes.
  5. Optional: add beans or cooked rice to the filling mixture and combine well.
  6. Spoon the warm filling evenly into each bell pepper half. Sprinkle a layer of shredded cheese inside the filling.
  7. Place stuffed peppers upright in the air fryer basket without overcrowding. Cook at 360°F (182°C) for 10-12 minutes or until peppers are tender and cheese is melted with a slight crisp on top.
  8. Optional: For a golden finish, sprinkle additional cheese on top and air fry for 2-3 more minutes until bubbly and browned.
  9. Let peppers rest for a few minutes to set the filling. Garnish with fresh cilantro, sliced green onions, and lime wedges before serving.

Notes

  • Brush peppers lightly with olive oil and salt to enhance roasting and flavor.
  • Adjust the seasoning to your taste preference, adding more or less taco seasoning as desired.
  • Use cheese that melts well like cheddar or Mexican blend for creamy texture inside and on top.
  • For vegetarian version, omit meat and use beans or lentils; substitute cheese with vegan alternative or omit.
  • Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat in air fryer or oven.

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