The aroma of Air Fryer Sloppy Joe Stuffed Peppers wafts through the kitchen, filling the air with hints of savory ground beef, zesty spices, and the sweet crunch of bell peppers. Picture this: you take a bite, and your taste buds explode with flavor while your heart does a little happy dance. Cheesy Baked Empanadas These stuffed peppers are not just a meal; they’re an experience that can turn any dull weekday dinner into a fiesta!

I remember the first time I made Air Fryer Sloppy Joe Stuffed Peppers for my family. Their eyes widened in surprise when they saw what was for dinner. The combination of comfort food and vibrant colors had them eagerly anticipating their first bite. Breakfast Crescent Roll Egg Cups Sure enough, those peppers disappeared faster than you could say “Sloppy Joe,” making it a memorable evening filled with laughter and satisfaction.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Air Fryer Sloppy Joe Stuffed Peppers recipe is quick to prepare, making weeknight dinners stress-free
- The delightful blend of flavors will tantalize your taste buds with every bite
- Visually stunning with bright colors, these stuffed peppers are sure to impress your guests
- Perfect for customizing based on your favorite fillings or dietary preferences, they adapt easily to any occasion
The reactions from my kids were priceless when they tasted these stuffed peppers; it was a unanimous win at the dinner table!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Bell Peppers: Choose colorful ones like red or yellow for sweetness; they look great and add vibrant flavor.
- Ground Beef: Lean ground beef works best for a healthy option without sacrificing flavor; feel free to substitute turkey.
- Sloppy Joe Sauce: Use your favorite brand or homemade for that extra touch of love.
- Onion: A finely chopped onion adds sweetness and depth; sauté until translucent for the best results.
- Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheese on top adds gooey goodness; opt for sharp cheddar for a flavor punch.
- Olive Oil: A drizzle helps cook the peppers evenly in your air fryer while enhancing their natural sweetness.
- Spices and Seasonings: Don’t forget salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika to bring out all those fabulous flavors!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepping the Peppers: Start by washing your bell peppers thoroughly. Cut off the tops, remove seeds and membranes carefully so that all those juicy flavors can shine through.
Sautéing the Filling: In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil then toss in chopped onions until they become soft and fragrant. Add ground beef next, cooking until browned and crumbly.
Mixing in the Goodies: Pour in your Sloppy Joe sauce and mix well until everything is coated evenly. Allow it to simmer for about five minutes as aromas fill your kitchen.
Stuffing Time!: Carefully spoon the meat mixture into each hollowed-out bell pepper. Pack them lightly but generously; we want each bite to be bursting with flavor!
Air Fryer Magic: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the stuffed peppers upright in the basket. Cook for 12-15 minutes until they’re tender and slightly charred.
Add Cheese Bliss!: In the last minute of cooking, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese atop each pepper so it melts into gooey perfection—trust me; you won’t want to skip this step!
Once you’ve reached this point, you can plate up those vibrant peppers and watch as everyone digs into their delicious creation!
Now you’re ready to enjoy an unforgettable meal that combines fun flavors with easy preparation—and perhaps even some happy dancing around the dinner table! Easy Margherita Pizza.
You Must Know
- Air Fryer Sloppy Joe Stuffed Peppers are a game-changer for busy weeknights
- These colorful peppers not only look appetizing but also pack a flavorful punch that will keep your family coming back for more
- The air fryer makes everything crispy and delightful without the guilt!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Begin by preheating the air fryer while you prepare the stuffing. Cook the meat and mix it with sauce before stuffing the peppers. This ensures everything is hot and delicious when served.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or even plant-based options for a lighter meal. Experiment with different cheese types for extra flavor, such as pepper jack or feta.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in your fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the air fryer or microwave for quick meals without losing flavor.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect stuffed peppers, ensure they are tender yet firm to hold their shape during cooking
- Always season your meat well; seasoning is key to flavor-packed filling
- And don’t forget to check the doneness of your stuffing before enjoying!
Reflecting on those evenings when friends gathered around my table, stuffed peppers were always a hit. Their vibrant colors and savory aroma brought everyone together to share laughter and good stories.
FAQ
Can I use different types of meat for Air Fryer Sloppy Joe Stuffed Peppers?
Nutella Brookies Dessert. For more inspiration, check out this Thick and Chewy Cookies recipe.
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles work great.
How do I prevent my peppers from getting soggy?
Make sure to cook them just until tender; avoid overstuffing them!
What sauces can I use besides traditional Sloppy Joe sauce?
For more inspiration, check out this Garlic Butter Green Beans recipe recipe.
Feel free to try barbecue sauce or homemade tomato sauce for unique flavors!

Air Fryer Sloppy Joe Stuffed Peppers
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Air Fryer Sloppy Joe Stuffed Peppers are a delightful fusion of comfort food and vibrant colors, guaranteed to elevate any weeknight dinner. Each bell pepper is generously filled with a savory mixture of lean ground beef, zesty sloppy joe sauce, and melty cheddar cheese, creating a flavor explosion in every bite. Fast to prepare and fun to eat, these stuffed peppers make mealtime an exciting experience for the entire family!
Ingredients
- 4 large bell peppers (any color)
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 cup sloppy joe sauce
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tsp olive oil
- Salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika (to taste)
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Wash the bell peppers, cut off the tops, and remove seeds and membranes.
- In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté the chopped onion until translucent.
- Add ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned; drain excess fat.
- Mix in the sloppy joe sauce and let simmer for 5 minutes.
- Stuff each pepper with the meat mixture; pack lightly.
- Place stuffed peppers upright in the air fryer basket and cook for 12-15 minutes until tender.
- In the last minute of cooking, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top of each pepper to melt.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed pepper (approximately 200g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 730mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Feel free to substitute ground beef with turkey or plant-based options for a lighter alternative. Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack or feta for added flavor. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat in the air fryer or microwave.