How Do You Roast Red Peppers in an Air Fryer?

AvatarByCynthia Crase Cooking Equipment Use

Roasting red peppers is a simple way to unlock their sweet, smoky flavors and transform them into a versatile ingredient for countless dishes. Traditionally done over an open flame or in the oven, roasting can sometimes feel time-consuming or messy. However, with the rise of air fryers, this process has become quicker, cleaner, and surprisingly easy—making it accessible even for busy home cooks.

Using an air fryer to roast red peppers offers a modern twist on a classic technique. The appliance’s rapid air circulation ensures the peppers char evenly, creating that signature blistered skin that’s perfect for peeling away to reveal tender, flavorful flesh beneath. This method not only saves time but also requires minimal preparation and cleanup, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking to elevate their cooking with minimal effort.

In the following sections, we’ll explore how to roast red peppers in an air fryer step-by-step, share tips for achieving the best results, and suggest creative ways to use your perfectly roasted peppers. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, mastering this technique will add a delicious new skill to your culinary repertoire.

Preparing Red Peppers for Roasting in an Air Fryer

Before placing red peppers in the air fryer, proper preparation is essential to achieve optimal roasting results. Start by selecting fresh, firm red peppers free from blemishes. Wash them thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or residues.

Pat the peppers dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to ensure the surface is dry. This helps the skin blister evenly and prevents excess moisture from interfering with the roasting process.

If desired, lightly coat the peppers with a small amount of olive oil. This enhances the roasting process by promoting even browning and adds a subtle flavor. Use a brush or your hands to apply the oil evenly over the pepper’s surface.

Optionally, you can season the peppers before roasting with salt, pepper, or other herbs and spices to infuse additional flavor during cooking. However, many prefer to season after roasting to maintain the fresh taste of the roasted skin and flesh.

Finally, place the peppers whole in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding to ensure hot air circulates freely around each pepper, facilitating even roasting on all sides.

Roasting Process and Tips for Best Results

Set the air fryer temperature to around 375°F (190°C), which is ideal for roasting peppers. The cooking time typically ranges between 15 to 20 minutes, depending on the size and thickness of the peppers.

To achieve uniform roasting:

  • Shake or turn the peppers halfway through the cooking time.
  • Check for blistering and charring on all sides.
  • Adjust cooking time slightly if peppers are particularly large or small.

When the peppers’ skins are blistered and charred, they are ready to be removed. Use tongs or a spatula to transfer them carefully to a bowl.

To facilitate skin removal, cover the roasted peppers with plastic wrap, or place them in a sealed container. This traps steam, loosening the skin and making it easier to peel after resting for 10 to 15 minutes.

Post-Roasting Handling and Storage

Once the peppers have cooled and steamed, peel off the charred skins using your fingers or a small knife. Avoid rinsing them under water, as this can wash away flavor and nutrients.

Remove the seeds and membranes if desired, which can reduce bitterness and create a smoother texture.

Roasted peppers can be used immediately in recipes or stored for later use. To store:

  • Place peeled peppers in an airtight container.
  • Refrigerate for up to 5 days.
  • For longer storage, freeze peeled peppers in a sealed freezer bag for up to 3 months.

Below is a table summarizing roasting times and temperatures based on pepper size:

Peppers Size Temperature (°F / °C) Roasting Time (minutes) Turning Frequency
Small (2-3 inches) 375 / 190 12-15 Every 6-7 minutes
Medium (3-4 inches) 375 / 190 15-18 Every 7-9 minutes
Large (4+ inches) 375 / 190 18-20 Every 8-10 minutes

Following these guidelines will ensure your air-fried red peppers are evenly roasted, flavorful, and easy to prepare for a variety of dishes.

Preparing Red Peppers for Air Fryer Roasting

Proper preparation of red peppers is essential for achieving an evenly roasted, flavorful result in the air fryer. Begin by selecting fresh, firm red bell peppers free from blemishes or soft spots. Wash the peppers thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt or residues.

Next, dry the peppers completely using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Moisture on the surface can affect the roasting process and may create excess steam inside the air fryer basket, preventing the peppers from charring properly.

To prepare the peppers for roasting:

  • Cut the peppers in half lengthwise to create two large pieces. This increases the surface area exposed to the hot air, allowing for quicker and more even roasting.
  • Remove the stem, seeds, and white membranes carefully using a small paring knife or your fingers. These parts can impart bitterness and are not typically desired in roasted pepper dishes.
  • Optionally, you can cut the halves into smaller segments if a faster roasting time or smaller pieces are preferred.

For enhanced flavor, lightly brush the skin side of the peppers with a high smoke point oil such as avocado or grapeseed oil. This promotes caramelization and adds a subtle richness to the finished product.

Setting Up and Roasting Red Peppers in the Air Fryer

The roasting process in an air fryer requires careful temperature and timing control to ensure the peppers develop a tender texture and a slightly charred, smoky skin.

Step Action Details
Preheat Set air fryer temperature Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (204°C) for about 3-5 minutes to ensure even heat distribution.
Arrange Peppers Place peppers skin side up Arrange prepared pepper halves in a single layer in the air fryer basket, skin side up, ensuring they do not overlap for uniform roasting.
Roast Cook for 12-15 minutes Roast at 400°F (204°C) for 12 to 15 minutes, checking at the 10-minute mark to monitor charring. The skins should blister and blacken slightly.
Shake Basket Optional midway stirring Halfway through the roasting time, gently shake the basket or turn the pepper halves to promote even cooking, if desired.

Note that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the size of the peppers and the specific model of your air fryer. Adjust accordingly to avoid burning or undercooking.

Peeling and Using Roasted Red Peppers

Once the peppers have roasted to the desired level, the next step is to remove their skins, which will be loose and charred. This step enhances the texture and flavor by removing the bitter outer layer.

  • Immediately transfer the hot peppers to a heatproof bowl and cover tightly with plastic wrap or a lid to trap steam. Let them rest for 10-15 minutes. The steam will loosen the skins further, making peeling easier.
  • After resting, use your fingers or a small knife to gently peel away the blackened skin. Avoid rinsing under water, as this can wash away flavorful oils.
  • Pat the peeled pepper flesh dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.

Roasted red peppers can be used in a variety of culinary applications:

  • Chopped and added to salads, pasta, or grain bowls for a smoky sweetness.
  • Pureed into sauces, dips, or spreads such as romesco or muhammara.
  • Layered in sandwiches, wraps, or atop pizzas for enhanced flavor complexity.
  • Blended into soups or stews to deepen the flavor profile.

Expert Insights on Roasting Red Peppers in an Air Fryer

Linda Martinez (Culinary Technologist, Food Science Institute). “Roasting red peppers in an air fryer is an efficient method that preserves the vegetable’s natural sweetness while achieving a desirable char. I recommend setting the air fryer to 400°F and roasting for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. This technique reduces cooking time compared to traditional oven roasting and enhances flavor concentration through caramelization.”

Dr. Kevin Huang (Nutritionist and Food Processing Expert, NutriWell Labs). “Using an air fryer to roast red peppers is a health-conscious choice because it requires no added oils, thus reducing unnecessary fats. The rapid air circulation technology helps maintain the pepper’s vitamin C content better than prolonged oven roasting. For optimal nutrient retention, it is advisable to avoid overcooking and to monitor the peppers closely during the roasting process.”

Sarah O’Connell (Chef and Culinary Instructor, Gourmet Kitchen Academy). “When roasting red peppers in an air fryer, preparation is key. Pricking the skin lightly before cooking allows steam to escape, which prevents bursting and promotes blistering of the skin. After roasting, placing the peppers in a sealed container or plastic bag for 10 minutes facilitates peeling by loosening the skin. This method is a practical shortcut that home cooks can use to achieve restaurant-quality results.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What temperature should I set my air fryer to for roasting red peppers?
Set the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for optimal roasting results. This temperature allows the peppers to char evenly without burning.

How long does it take to roast red peppers in an air fryer?
Roasting red peppers typically takes 15 to 20 minutes. Check and turn the peppers halfway through to ensure even charring.

Should I oil the red peppers before air frying?
Lightly coating the peppers with olive oil enhances flavor and promotes even roasting, but it is not strictly necessary.

How do I know when the red peppers are properly roasted?
The peppers are ready when their skins are blistered and charred in spots, and the flesh feels soft to the touch.

What is the best way to peel red peppers after air frying?
Place the roasted peppers in a covered bowl or sealed plastic bag for 10 minutes to steam. This loosens the skin, making it easier to peel off.

Can I roast multiple red peppers at once in the air fryer?
Yes, but avoid overcrowding the basket. Arrange peppers in a single layer with space between them to ensure even roasting.
Roasting red peppers in an air fryer is an efficient and convenient method that delivers excellent results with minimal effort. The process involves cleaning and drying the peppers, then placing them in the air fryer basket at a high temperature, typically around 375°F to 400°F, for approximately 15 to 20 minutes. Turning the peppers halfway through ensures even roasting and blistering of the skin. This method replicates the traditional roasting technique while significantly reducing cooking time and cleanup.

One of the key advantages of using an air fryer for roasting red peppers is the ability to achieve a smoky, charred flavor without the need for an open flame or oven. After roasting, placing the peppers in a covered container or plastic bag allows the steam to loosen the skin, making it easy to peel. Properly roasted red peppers can then be used in a variety of dishes, including salads, sauces, sandwiches, and dips, enhancing their flavor profile with a subtle sweetness and smokiness.

In summary, air frying red peppers is a practical and effective approach that combines speed, convenience, and flavor. By following the recommended temperature and timing guidelines, users can consistently produce perfectly roasted peppers. This technique is especially beneficial for those seeking a quick alternative to traditional roasting

Author Profile

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Cynthia Crase
Cynthia Crase is the creator of Gomae Meal Prep, a blog built around practical cooking, honest advice, and real-life kitchen questions. Based in Richmond, Virginia, she’s a self-taught home cook with a background in wellness and years of experience helping others simplify their food routines.

Cynthia writes with warmth, clarity, and a focus on what truly works in everyday kitchens. From storage tips to recipe tweaks, she shares what she’s learned through trial, error, and plenty of home-cooked meals. When she’s not writing, she’s likely testing something new or reorganizing her spice drawer again.