Last summer, I had a bunch of mini peppers from the farmers market just sitting in my fridge, begging to be used before they softened up. I remembered this air fryer cream cheese stuffed mini peppers recipe from a party years ago – the kind where you can’t stop popping them in your mouth. One lazy afternoon, I whipped them up in my air fryer, and boom, instant hit. The cream cheese gets all melty and warm while the peppers crisp just right. Perfect for game days or when you need a healthy low carb airfryer snack that feels indulgent. These airfryer recipes low carb have become my go-to – quick, satisfying, and way better than chips.
There’s something magical about that first bite: the slight char from the air fryer, the cool tang of cheese against sweet pepper crunch. I tweaked it with smoked paprika for a smoky kick that reminds me of backyard barbecues. If you’re into airfryer recipes healthy low carb, this one’s a keeper. Halve the peppers, stuff ’em, air fry, done. Fifteen minutes tops, and you’ve got healthy air fryer snacks low carb that’ll steal the show.
Why Air Fryer Recipes Peppers Shine
Mini peppers pack so much natural sweetness, they don’t need much to shine. Air frying them at high heat draws out that flavor without sogginess. I’ve burned a few batches learning the sweet spot – around 375°F for 8-10 minutes. The cream cheese firms up into this irresistible dip-like filling. Peppers air fryer recipes like this beat oven baking every time; faster and crispier edges.
These aren’t just any air fryer recipes peppers. The low carb angle makes them guilt-free. Each pepper clocks under 5 grams carbs, stuffed with protein-rich cheese. Great for keto folks or anyone watching sugars. I pair mine with iced tea on hot days.
Ingredients for Airfryer Low Carb Recipes Success
- 12 mini bell peppers, assorted colors, halved and seeds removed
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened at room temp
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions or chives
- Optional: 1/4 cup cooked bacon bits for extra crunch
Grab firm peppers – they hold shape best. Soften that cream cheese first; cold stuff leads to lumps. These airfryer low carb recipes rely on simple pantry staples.
How to Make Air Fry Cream Cheese Peppers
- Mix cream cheese, cheddar, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and green onions in a bowl until smooth. Fold in bacon if using.
- Spoon or pipe filling into each pepper half. Press gently to fill crevices.
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F. Lightly spray basket with oil.
- Arrange peppers in a single layer, cut side up. Don’t overcrowd.
- Air fry 8-10 minutes until peppers soften and cheese bubbles golden.
- Cool 2 minutes. Garnish with extra chives. Serve warm.
Tips: Pipe for neat fills if you have a bag. Shake basket halfway for even crisp. Peppers air fryer style means no flipping needed.
Pro Tips for Perfect Airfryer Recipes Healthy Low Carb
Preheat always – sets the crisp. Use parchment liner if peppers stick. For extra smoky vibe, add chipotle powder. Test one pepper first to dial timing; air fryers vary. These healthy air fryer snacks low carb reheat well next day.
- Filling ahead? Store in fridge up to 2 days.
- Bigger bite? Use full-size bell peppers, adjust time +2 minutes.
- Spicy twist: Dash of hot sauce in mix.
- Make vegan: Swap cheeses for cashew-based spread.
Easy Variations on Peppers Air Fryer Recipes
Buffalo style: Stir in buffalo sauce and blue cheese crumbles. Mexican flair: Chorizo, cotija, cilantro-lime. Italian: Mozzarella, pesto, sun-dried tomatoes. Go Greek with feta, olives, oregano. Endless air fryer recipes peppers tweaks keep it fresh.
Troubleshooting Air Fryer Peppers
Soggy peppers? Too crowded or low heat. Up temp to 400°F. Cheese not melting? Soften fully first. Over-browned tops? Tent with foil last 2 minutes. Bitter taste? Rinse peppers after seeding.
Ingredient Substitutions
- No cream cheese? Goat cheese or ricotta works.
- Dairy-free: Coconut cream + nutritional yeast.
- No mini peppers? Jalapenos for heat (remove seeds).
- Cheese swap: Pepper jack for spice kick.
Storage and Serving Suggestions
Fridge in airtight container up to 3 days. Reheat air fryer 350°F, 3 minutes. Freeze stuffed (unbaked) up to month; thaw then cook. Serve with ranch dip, on charcuterie, or salad topper. Pairs with grilled meats or chilled white wine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make air fryer cream cheese stuffed mini peppers ahead?
Yes, stuff up to 24 hours ahead. Air fry fresh for best crunch.
Are these keto-friendly airfryer low carb recipes?
Absolutely, under 3g net carbs per serving. Pure keto bliss.
What if my air fryer is small?
Batch in two rounds. Keeps texture perfect.
Can I bake instead of air fry?
Yes, 400°F oven 12-15 minutes. Less crisp though.
How spicy are air fry cream cheese peppers?
Mild naturally. Add jalapenos or cayenne for heat.
Best peppers for air fryer recipes peppers?
Mini sweets hold filling best. Colorful mix for appeal.
Air Fryer Cream Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers
Equipment
- Air fryer
- Mixing bowl
- Piping bag (optional)
Ingredients
- 12 mini bell peppers, assorted colors halved and seeds removed
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- 0.5 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 0.25 teaspoon salt
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions or chives
- 0.25 cup cooked bacon bits optional
Instructions
- Mix cream cheese, cheddar, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and green onions until smooth. Fold in bacon if using.
- Spoon or pipe filling into each pepper half. Press to fill.
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F. Spray basket lightly.
- Arrange peppers cut side up in single layer.
- Air fry 8-10 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Cool slightly. Garnish and serve warm.
Notes
- Preheat for crisp results.
- Don’t overcrowd basket.
- Reheat at 350°F for 3 minutes.
