Name: Air Fryer Banana Peppers
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 18 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 2 teaspoons garlic powder; ½ teaspoon ground black pepper; 2 teaspoons sea salt; 1 pound fresh banana peppers or sweet peppers, sliced and seeds removed; Olive oil spray

These air fryer banana peppers are a quick and easy snack or appetizer made with just a few ingredients. I slice fresh banana peppers, coat them in a seasoned flour mixture, and air fry them until they’re crispy and golden brown. They’re perfect for dipping in ranch dressing or adding to salads and pizzas. Air Fryer Banana Peppers

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how simple and fast this recipe is—ready in under 20 minutes. The banana peppers turn out crispy without the need for deep frying, making them a healthier option. Their mild heat and tangy flavor make them a versatile addition to many dishes, and they’re always a hit at gatherings.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 cup all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons garlic powder
½ teaspoon ground black pepper
2 teaspoons sea salt
1 pound fresh banana peppers or sweet peppers, sliced and seeds removed
Olive oil spray

Directions

In a medium-sized mixing bowl, I combine the flour, garlic powder, ground black pepper, and sea salt.
I dip the sliced banana peppers into the seasoned flour, ensuring they’re well-coated. Then, I let them sit for 5 minutes to allow the coating to adhere better.
I preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
I place the coated banana peppers in the air fryer basket in a single layer and spray them with olive oil on both sides.
I air fry the banana peppers for 8 minutes or until they’re golden brown and crispy.
After cooking, I transfer them onto a baking sheet lined with paper towels to remove any excess oil and let them cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields 4 servings. The preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, and the cooking time is about 8 minutes, making the total time around 18 minutes.

Variations

For a spicier kick, I add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the flour mixture.
Sometimes, I use mini bell peppers for a milder flavor.
I like to experiment with different dipping sauces like spicy mayo or garlic aioli.
Occasionally, I sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the peppers before air frying for an extra savory touch.

Storage/Reheating

I find that these banana peppers are best enjoyed fresh. However, if I have leftovers, I let them cool to room temperature and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, I place them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until they’re warmed through and crispy again.

FAQs

How do I prevent the coating from falling off the banana peppers?

I make sure to let the coated banana peppers sit for 5 minutes before air frying. This helps the flour mixture adhere better to the peppers.

Can I use a different type of pepper for this recipe?

Yes, I sometimes use sweet peppers or mini bell peppers as a substitute for banana peppers. They have a similar mild flavor and work well in this recipe.

What dipping sauces pair well with these banana peppers?

I enjoy dipping them in ranch dressing, but they also go well with spicy mayo, garlic aioli, or even a tangy barbecue sauce.

Can I make these banana peppers gluten-free?

Absolutely. I substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe gluten-free.

How do I ensure the banana peppers are evenly cooked?

I arrange the coated banana peppers in a single layer in the air fryer basket and avoid overcrowding. This ensures they cook evenly and become crispy.

Conclusion

These air fryer banana peppers are a delightful snack or appetizer that’s quick to prepare and full of flavor. I love how versatile they are, and they always add a tasty crunch to any meal. Whether I’m serving them at a party or enjoying them as a midday snack, they’re always a hit.