Air Fryer Peppers and Mushrooms are a vibrant, flavorful side dish or topping that comes together in just minutes. Roasting them in the air fryer enhances their natural sweetness while keeping them tender-crisp, making this recipe perfect for healthy dinners, meal prep, or sandwich fillings.
Ingredients
- 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced into strips
- 1 cup mushrooms (white or cremini), sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or balsamic glaze for serving
How To Make Air Fryer Peppers and Mushrooms
- Prep the Veggies: Wash the bell peppers and mushrooms. Slice the peppers into strips and the mushrooms into thick slices.
- Season: In a mixing bowl, toss the vegetables with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until well coated.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and preheat for 3 minutes.
- Air Fry: Place the peppers and mushrooms in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Cook: Air fry for 10–12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking.
- Serve: Drizzle with optional lemon juice or balsamic glaze and serve hot.
You Must Know
- Don’t overcrowd: If cooking a large batch, air fry in batches to avoid steaming.
- Mushroom moisture: Mushrooms naturally release water; pre-salting can help reduce sogginess.
- Customize your seasoning: Feel free to use Italian seasoning, Cajun spice, or a dash of chili flakes.
- Use firm mushrooms: Cremini or baby bella mushrooms hold their shape better than white button mushrooms.
Topping Variations
- Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan right after air frying.
- Fresh Herbs: Add chopped parsley, basil, or thyme for extra freshness.
- Balsamic Reduction: A drizzle adds a touch of sweetness and acidity.
- Crushed Red Pepper: For a spicy kick.
- Toasted Pine Nuts: Add a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
Make It A Meal
Pair Air Fryer Peppers and Mushrooms with:
- Grilled Chicken or Steak
- Rice Bowls or Grain Bowls
- Stuffed into Wraps or Sandwiches
- Over Pasta with Olive Oil and Garlic
- As a Topping for Pizza or Flatbreads
- On top of a baked potato or sweet potato
Pro Tips
- Cut evenly: Uniform slicing ensures even cooking.
- Use parchment liners: For easier cleanup and less sticking.
- Shake the basket: At least once during cooking to prevent uneven browning.
- Add garlic last minute: If using fresh garlic, add it in the last 2 minutes to avoid burning.
- Leftovers? Use them in omelets, tacos, or reheated over quinoa.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use frozen peppers and mushrooms?
Yes, but thaw and pat them dry to remove excess moisture before air frying.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 2–3 minutes.
Can I make this recipe oil-free?
Yes, though the texture may be slightly drier. Use a spritz of water or broth to help seasoning stick.
What type of mushrooms work best?
Cremini or baby bella mushrooms are ideal as they stay firm and flavorful.
Can I add onions or zucchini?
Absolutely! Add sliced onions or thin zucchini rounds for a delicious mix.
Air Fryer Peppers and Mushrooms
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 8 oz button mushrooms
- 3 bell peppers
- 3 tablespoon Kinder’s The Blend Seasoning
- 3 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
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Wash the mushrooms and bell peppers. Slice the mushrooms in half and the bell peppers into ½-inch thick strips. Preheat the air fryer.
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Add the vegetables, oil, and seasoning to a large bowl and toss until evenly coated.
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Place the vegetables in the air fryer tray and cook at 400 degrees for 10 minutes. Toss and cook for another 5 minutes.
