Air Fryer Cream Cheese Stuffed Peppers (Print Version)

Colorful mini peppers filled with creamy cheese blend, air-fried to perfection for a tasty appetizer or snack.

# What You'll Need:

→ Vegetables

01 - 16 mini sweet peppers (about 1 lb), halved and seeded

→ Cheese Filling

02 - 8 oz cream cheese, softened
03 - 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
04 - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
05 - 2 tablespoons fresh chives, finely chopped
06 - 1 garlic clove, minced
07 - 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
08 - 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
09 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
10 - 1/4 teaspoon salt

→ Optional Garnish

11 - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
12 - Pinch of smoked paprika or red pepper flakes

# Step-by-Step Guide:

01 - Preheat air fryer to 375°F for 3 minutes.
02 - Combine cream cheese, cheddar, Parmesan, chives, garlic, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt in a medium bowl. Mix until smooth and fully incorporated.
03 - Fill each mini pepper half generously with cheese mixture, smoothing tops with a spoon for even filling.
04 - Arrange stuffed peppers in single layer in air fryer basket. Cook for 8-10 minutes until peppers are tender and tops are lightly golden.
05 - Remove from air fryer and let cool for 2-3 minutes before transferring to serving platter.
06 - Sprinkle with fresh parsley and additional smoked paprika or red pepper flakes if desired. Serve warm.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • They disappear faster than any other appetizer I've ever served
  • The air fryer makes them perfectly tender without turning on your oven
  • You can prep them ahead and cook them right before guests arrive
02 -
  • If your peppers wobble in the basket, carefully prop them against each other so none tip over and spill their filling
  • Don't overfill or the cheese will melt out and burn at the bottom of your air fryer
  • They reheat surprisingly well the next day at 170°C for about 4 minutes
03 -
  • Buy peppers in various colors for the prettiest presentation, red orange and yellow look stunning together
  • Use a small cookie scoop or melon baller to fill them quickly and evenly