Craving lasagna but want a lighter twist? These Air Fryer Lasagna Stuffed Peppers have all the cheesy, saucy goodness you love, packed inside sweet bell peppers for a delicious, guilt-free meal that’s ready in no time!
Air Fryer Lasagna Stuffed Peppers offer a creative and delicious twist on traditional lasagna, combining the savory flavors of lasagna with the freshness of bell peppers. Filled with a rich mixture of seasoned ground beef, marinara sauce, and gooey mozzarella cheese, these stuffed peppers are air fried to perfection for a crispy, golden exterior.
They’re a quick, lighter alternative to the classic lasagna, and perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner or meal prep. The best part? They come together in no time, thanks to the air fryer’s magic!
Why You Will Love This Recipe!
- Quick and easy to make with minimal prep.
- Delicious combination of lasagna flavors in a pepper.
- Air fryer cooks them to crispy, golden perfection.
- Healthier alternative to traditional lasagna with fewer carbs.
- Fully customizable with your favorite fillings and toppings.
- Perfect for meal prep or a weeknight dinner.
- Packed with cheesy, savory goodness in every bite.
- Versatile recipe to serve as a main or appetizer.
Ingredients Needed
- Olive oil: Adds richness and helps sauté the ingredients.
- Diced onion: Provides a savory base with aromatic flavor.
- Ground beef: Offers a hearty, flavorful filling for the peppers.
- Canned tomato sauce: Gives a smooth, tangy base for the filling.
- Italian seasoning: Adds a classic blend of herbs for extra flavor.
- Ricotta cheese: Adds creaminess and richness to the filling.
- Egg: Helps bind the filling together for a cohesive texture.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Provides a sharp, nutty flavor to the filling.
- Salt: Enhances and balances the flavors of the dish.
- Black pepper: Adds mild heat and depth to the seasoning.
- Bell pepper halves: Serve as the vessel for the lasagna filling.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into a gooey, cheesy topping for the peppers.
Recipe Variations
Can I use a different type of meat? Yes! You can swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage. Just be sure to adjust the seasonings accordingly.
Can I use a different cheese? Definitely! You can use provolone, fontina, or even a dairy-free cheese for a different flavor profile. Mozzarella works best for melting and texture, but feel free to experiment.
How do I make this recipe vegetarian? For a vegetarian version, replace the meat with sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, zucchini, and onions, or use a plant-based meat alternative.
How To Make Air Fryer Lasagna Stuffed Peppers
Step One: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onions and cook for about 5 minutes, until they become translucent. Add the ground beef to the skillet, seasoning with salt and black pepper. Cook for about 7-8 minutes, until the meat is fully browned and cooked through.
Step Two: Stir in the tomato sauce and Italian seasoning, then simmer for about 5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Step Three: In a small bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, and Parmesan cheese. Mix well. Spoon some of the meat sauce into the bottom of each bell pepper half. Next, add a layer of the ricotta mixture, then top with more of the meat sauce.
Step Four: Place the stuffed peppers in the air fryer basket and set the air fryer temperature to 350 degrees F. Set cook time for 8-12 minutes, until the peppers are tender.
Step Five: Top each stuffed pepper with shredded mozzarella cheese, and return them to the air fryer. Let the residual heat melt the cheese. If needed, set the temperature to 250 degrees F until fully melted.
Low Carb Lasagna Stuffed Peppers Recipe Tips
- Use Ground Turkey or Chicken: For a lighter option, swap ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. It still adds great flavor without the extra fat.
- Choose a Sugar-Free Marinara Sauce: To keep the dish low-carb, make sure to use a sugar-free marinara sauce or homemade sauce without added sugars.
- Layer Properly: Be sure to layer the ingredients in the peppers evenly for the perfect bite of meat sauce, ricotta, and mozzarella in every mouthful.
- Cook Peppers to Perfection: Don’t overcook the peppers. Keep an eye on them in the air fryer and remove them once they’re tender but still hold their shape.
- Top with Fresh Herbs: Garnish the stuffed peppers with fresh basil or parsley to add a burst of freshness that complements the rich flavors of the dish.
- Make Ahead: These stuffed peppers are great for meal prep! Assemble them ahead of time, store in the fridge, and air fry when you’re ready to eat.
- Add Extra Veggies: Feel free to add extra veggies, such as spinach or mushrooms, to the meat sauce for added flavor and nutrition without increasing the carbs.
Storing
- Storing: Once the stuffed peppers have cooled, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Be sure to place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
- Freezing: To freeze, wrap each stuffed pepper tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: To reheat, place the stuffed peppers in the air fryer at 350°F for 5-7 minutes until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat them in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, depending on your microwave’s power.
What To Serve With Lasagna Stuffed Peppers
Lasagna stuffed peppers pair wonderfully with a variety of sides to complete your meal. A light, crisp salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the peppers. Garlic bread or crusty bread is always a favorite, perfect for dipping into any leftover sauce. For a low-carb option, roasted vegetables like zucchini or cauliflower can add a delicious and nutritious touch. If you want to keep the Italian theme going, serve the peppers with a side of sautéed spinach or steamed broccoli for a healthy, vibrant meal.
Lasagna Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe Faqs
Can I make these ahead of time? Absolutely! You can assemble the stuffed peppers ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before air frying.
How do I make the peppers less crunchy? To ensure the peppers are tender, you can cook them in the air fryer for a few extra minutes or pre-cook them slightly by blanching them in boiling water for 2-3 minutes before stuffing.
Can I cook these in the oven instead? Yes, you can bake them in the oven at 375°F for 25-30 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted. Just be sure to cover them with foil during baking to prevent the cheese from browning too quickly.
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Air Fryer Lasagna Stuffed Peppers
Description
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 pound ground beef
- 14.5 ounces canned tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 bell pepper halves
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and cook for about 5 minutes, or until they become translucent.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet and season with salt and black pepper. Cook for 7-8 minutes, breaking up the meat, until it is fully cooked.
- Stir in the tomato sauce and Italian seasoning, and simmer for about 5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- In a small bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, and Parmesan cheese. Mix until smooth.
- Spoon some of the meat sauce into the bottom of each bell pepper half. Add a layer of the ricotta mixture, then top with the remaining meat sauce.
- Place the stuffed peppers in the air fryer basket. Set the air fryer to 350°F and cook for 8-12 minutes, or until the peppers are tender.
- Top each stuffed pepper with shredded mozzarella cheese and return to the air fryer. Let the residual heat melt the cheese, or if needed, set the temperature to 250°F and air fry for a few more minutes.
- Plate the stuffed peppers, serve, and enjoy!
Equipment
- Cooking Spray
- Parchment Paper, optional
Nutrition
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