Oh my goodness, let me tell you about these air fryer feta stuffed mini peppers! They’re an absolute game changer when it comes to appetizers. Picture this: vibrant mini sweet peppers stuffed with creamy, tangy feta cheese, all cooked to perfection in the air fryer. They come out slightly charred, bursting with Mediterranean flavors that’ll make your taste buds dance! I love serving these at gatherings because they’re not just delicious, but they also look so colorful and inviting on the table. Plus, they’re super easy to whip up—perfect for when you want to impress your friends without spending all day in the kitchen. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become your go-to party favorite!
Ingredients List
- 12 mini sweet peppers, halved lengthwise and seeds removed
- 8 oz feta cheese, crumbled for easy mixing
- 2 tbsp olive oil, to enhance creaminess and flavor
- 1 tsp garlic powder, for that aromatic kick
- 1 tsp dried oregano, bringing in those Mediterranean vibes
- 1/2 tsp black pepper, freshly cracked for a bit of heat
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional), if you like a little extra spice
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish and a pop of color
How to Prepare the Air Fryer Feta Stuffed Mini Peppers Recipe
Preheat Air Fryer
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This step is super important because it ensures that your feta stuffed mini peppers cook evenly and get that lovely, slightly charred exterior. Trust me, a good preheat makes all the difference!
Prepare the Peppers
Now, let’s get those mini sweet peppers ready! Grab your sharp knife and slice each pepper in half lengthwise. Take your time here—safety first! Once they’re halved, gently remove the seeds using your fingers or a small spoon. If you’re like me and don’t want spicy fingers, you can wear kitchen gloves while handling these little beauties. After all, we want to enjoy the peppers, not feel like we just touched a jalapeño!
Mix the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the crumbled feta cheese with the olive oil, garlic powder, dried oregano, black pepper, and those optional red pepper flakes if you’re craving a little heat. I like to use a fork to mash the feta into the olive oil, creating a creamy mixture that’s super easy to stuff into the peppers. Make sure everything is well combined—every bite should be bursting with flavor!
Stuff the Peppers
It’s time to fill those peppers! Take a spoon and carefully stuff each pepper half with the feta mixture. Don’t overstuff them—just enough to create a nice mound on top. If you overdo it, the filling might spill out during cooking, and we wouldn’t want to miss out on that deliciousness! Aim for an even distribution, so every pepper is packed with that creamy goodness.
Air Fry the Stuffed Peppers
Arrange the stuffed peppers in a single layer in the air fryer basket. This helps them cook evenly, so you don’t end up with some peppers perfectly done and others still crunchy. Cook them for about 10-12 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the peppers are tender and the tops are golden brown. Oh, the smell will be heavenly!
Garnish and Serve
Once they’re done, transfer your gorgeous stuffed peppers to a serving platter and sprinkle with fresh parsley for that pop of color and freshness. These little gems are perfect as they are, but I love serving them with a drizzle of balsamic reduction to really elevate the flavor! Your friends and family will be raving about these appetizers, I promise!
Tips for Success
To make sure your air fryer feta stuffed mini peppers turn out absolutely perfect every time, I’ve got some tried-and-true tips to share! First off, don’t skip the preheating step. It’s crucial for achieving that golden-brown finish that we all love. If your air fryer has a preheat function, use it; if not, just let it warm up for about 5 minutes.
Another handy tip is to choose mini sweet peppers that are firm and glossy. This ensures they hold their shape during cooking and have that satisfying crunch. If you find peppers that are a bit soft, they might not stand up well to the stuffing and cooking process.
As for the filling, feel free to get creative! While feta is a star here, mixing in a bit of cream cheese can add a delightful creaminess, or even a handful of chopped olives for a briny kick. Just remember to taste the filling before stuffing—it’s a great way to adjust the seasoning to your liking. And don’t be shy with the spices; they can really elevate the flavor!
Common mistakes to avoid? Overstuffing the peppers is a big one. Just a little mound on top is perfect—too much filling can lead to a mess in the air fryer. Also, keep an eye on the cooking time; air fryers can vary, and you want those peppers tender but not mushy. If you’re unsure, check them a couple of minutes early to avoid overcooking.
Lastly, let your stuffed peppers cool for just a couple of minutes after they come out of the air fryer. This helps the filling set a bit so it stays in place when you serve them. With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to impressing everyone with your flavorful, perfectly cooked appetizers! Enjoy every bite!
Variations on the Recipe
One of the best things about these air fryer feta stuffed mini peppers is how versatile they can be! Don’t be afraid to get a little creative with the filling. For a burst of sweetness and tang, try adding chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the feta mixture. They pair beautifully and elevate the Mediterranean vibe even more!
If you’re a fan of herbs, switching up the dried oregano for fresh herbs like basil or thyme can bring a whole new layer of flavor. Just make sure to chop them finely so they distribute evenly throughout the filling. You could even try a mix of herbs; I love a combination of oregano and fresh parsley for a refreshing twist!
For a richer flavor, consider mixing in a bit of goat cheese or cream cheese along with the feta. This adds creaminess and a different flavor profile that’s simply divine! If you’re feeling adventurous, you could also spice things up by incorporating some crumbled chorizo or cooked sausage into the filling for a meaty variation.
And don’t forget about spices! Adding a pinch of smoked paprika or cumin can give these peppers an exciting kick. For those who love a bit of heat, you could swap in jalapeños instead of sweet peppers or increase the amount of red pepper flakes. The options are endless, and each variation can transform this dish into something uniquely delicious! So go ahead, mix it up and find your perfect combination!
Nutritional Information Disclaimer
It’s important to note that the nutritional information for these air fryer feta stuffed mini peppers can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you choose. While I’ve provided a general idea of the calorie count and macronutrients, precise values may change depending on factors like the type of feta cheese or the size of your mini peppers. If you’re tracking your intake closely, I recommend using a nutrition calculator to estimate the nutritional values based on the exact products you use. Enjoy these delicious appetizers without worry, knowing you can customize them to fit your dietary preferences!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffed peppers in advance and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before air frying. Just cover them tightly with plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. When you’re ready to cook, you may need to add an extra minute or two to the cooking time since they’ll be cold from the fridge.
How do I store leftovers?
If you have any leftover stuffed peppers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep well for about 3-4 days. Just be sure to let them cool completely before storing to avoid condensation.
Can I reheat them?
Yes, you can reheat these stuffed peppers in the air fryer! Simply preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and heat them for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through. You can also use the oven at a similar temperature for about 10-15 minutes. Microwaving is an option too, but it might make the peppers a bit soggy.
What can I substitute for feta cheese?
If feta isn’t your thing, you can try using goat cheese for a tangy flavor or cream cheese for a milder taste. Just keep in mind that the texture and taste will change slightly, but they can still be delicious alternatives!
Are there any recommended dips or sauces to serve with these?
I love serving these stuffed peppers with a drizzle of balsamic reduction for a sweet and tangy contrast. A dollop of tzatziki or a simple yogurt sauce can also complement the flavors beautifully. If you’re feeling adventurous, try a spicy harissa sauce for an extra kick!
Can I freeze the stuffed peppers?
While I recommend enjoying them fresh, you can freeze the unstuffed mini peppers if you want to prepare them in advance. Just stuff and air fry them straight from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time. Frozen cooked peppers might lose some texture, but they’re still tasty for a quick snack!
Air Fryer Feta Stuffed Mini Peppers Recipe for Everyone
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 24 stuffed peppers 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delicious recipe for air fryer feta stuffed mini peppers that offers a burst of flavor in every bite.
Ingredients
- 12 mini sweet peppers
- 8 oz feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice the mini peppers in half lengthwise and remove the seeds.
- In a bowl, mix feta cheese, olive oil, garlic powder, oregano, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Stuff each pepper half with the feta mixture.
- Arrange the stuffed peppers in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Cook for 10-12 minutes until the peppers are tender and slightly charred.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, add chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the filling.
- Experiment with different herbs like thyme or basil.
- Serve with a drizzle of balsamic reduction for added taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 stuffed peppers
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keywords: air fryer feta stuffed mini peppers recipe
