Air Fryer Turkey Stuffed Peppers Recipe

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe makes 6 servings. Ingredient amounts are automatically adjusted if scaled, but cooking times remain the same. Original recipe yield: 1X.

• 3 bell peppers, any color
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3/4 teaspoon salt, divided
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1 1/2 tablespoons Italian herb seasoning blend
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes, or to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 pound ground turkey
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 cup minced onion
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• Olive oil cooking spray
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Italian flat-leaf parsley, for garnish (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat your air fryer to 350F (180C) if using. Wash and dry the bell peppers. Slice each pepper in half from top to bottom, remove seeds and membranes, and trim the stems.
2. Brush the outer side of each pepper half with olive oil and place them cut-side up on a work surface. Lightly sprinkle the inside of each pepper with 1/4 teaspoon of salt.
3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the egg, ketchup, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, black pepper, and the remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt until well combined.
4. Add the ground turkey, cooked rice, minced onion, and minced garlic to the bowl. Use your hands to mix everything evenly into a uniform filling.
5. Spoon the turkey mixture into each prepared pepper half, dividing it evenly. Lightly spray the tops with olive oil cooking spray.
6. Place the stuffed peppers in the air fryer basket and cook for about 15 minutes.
7. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the top of each pepper and air fry for an additional 5 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the internal temperature reaches 165F (74C).
8. Garnish with chopped Italian flat-leaf parsley, if desired, and serve warm.

Cooks Notes

This recipe was developed for a 5.3-quart basket-style air fryer. Cooking times may vary depending on the brand and model of your appliance. For best results, check doneness with a thermometer.

When cooking rice for this recipe, follow your preferred method, ensuring it is fully cooked and fluffy before adding to the turkey mixture.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 324
• Total Fat: 18g (23%)
• Saturated Fat: 5g (25%)
• Cholesterol: 116mg (39%)
• Sodium: 483mg (21%)
• Total Carbohydrate: 18g (7%)
• Dietary Fiber: 2g (6%)
• Total Sugars: 5g
• Protein: 24g (47%)
• Vitamin C: 31mg (35%)
• Calcium: 132mg (10%)
• Iron: 3mg (16%)
• Potassium: 410mg (9%)

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Nutrient data may vary.

History and Origins of Turkey Stuffed Peppers

Stuffed peppers are a culinary tradition that spans centuries and continents. Their roots can be traced back to Mediterranean and Eastern European cuisines, where vegetables like bell peppers, tomatoes, and cabbage were commonly filled with grains, meats, and aromatic herbs. The modern American version, particularly with ground turkey, reflects a fusion of these traditions with a focus on lean protein and convenience. Using an air fryer is a contemporary adaptation that streamlines cooking while keeping the peppers tender and the filling juicy.

Regional Variations

In the United States, stuffed peppers often feature a blend of Italian herbs, rice, and mozzarella cheese, reflecting Italian-American influences. In contrast, Eastern European recipes, such as Hungarian or Polish versions, might use ground beef or pork, paprika, and tomato-based sauces. Mediterranean versions often include lamb, pine nuts, and herbs like mint or parsley. The choice of pepperred, yellow, or greenalso varies by region and season, influencing both the flavor and sweetness of the dish.

Differences from Similar Dishes

Turkey stuffed peppers differ from other stuffed vegetable dishes in several ways. Unlike stuffed cabbage rolls or zucchini boats, bell peppers provide a naturally firm but tender vessel that holds the filling without collapsing. The use of ground turkey, a leaner protein, sets this dish apart from traditional beef or pork variants, making it lighter and lower in fat. The addition of air frying technology further differentiates it by producing a slightly caramelized exterior without deep frying or long baking times.

Where They Are Typically Served

Air fryer turkey stuffed peppers are commonly enjoyed as a family dinner or a casual weeknight meal. They are also popular at potlucks and buffet-style gatherings, where the colorful presentation of the peppers adds visual appeal. Restaurants featuring healthy or modern American cuisine may serve this dish as a main entre accompanied by a side salad or roasted vegetables. The dishs versatility allows it to be served warm or at room temperature, making it convenient for both home cooks and caterers.

Interesting Facts

• The concept of stuffing vegetables dates back to ancient times, with records showing that Greeks and Romans filled vegetables with grains and herbs as early as the 5th century BCE.
• Bell peppers are high in vitamin C, and when baked or air-fried, their natural sweetness intensifies, creating a flavorful contrast with savory fillings like turkey and rice.
• Using an air fryer reduces cooking time and oil usage, making stuffed peppers healthier without compromising flavor or texture.
• Stuffed peppers can be adapted to nearly any cuisine, from Mexican-inspired versions with black beans and chili to Asian-inspired variants with ginger, soy sauce, and rice noodles.
• Presentation matters: the vibrant colors of red, yellow, and green peppers can turn a simple dinner into a visually stunning meal, which is why they remain a favorite for family gatherings and festive occasions.

FAQ about Air Fryer Turkey Stuffed Peppers Recipe