Short Answer:

The ideal temperature for cooking bell peppers in an air fryer is 180–200°C (350–400°F). This range allows the peppers to cook evenly, developing tender flesh and slightly charred edges.

Cooking at this temperature preserves natural sweetness and enhances flavor while preventing burning. Shaking or turning the peppers halfway through ensures even cooking and caramelization, resulting in delicious, versatile bell peppers for salads, sides, or sandwiches.

Detailed Explanation:

Ideal Temperature for Cooking Bell Peppers

Bell peppers are delicate vegetables with high water content, so selecting the proper temperature is key to achieving a tender and flavorful result. Setting the air fryer to 180–200°C (350–400°F) provides sufficient heat to cook the peppers evenly while encouraging caramelization of natural sugars on the surface. Lower temperatures may leave the peppers soft but lack color and flavor development, whereas higher temperatures can burn the outer skin before the interior is cooked properly.

Preparation for Optimal Cooking
Before cooking, wash the bell peppers thoroughly to remove any dirt or residues. Cut the peppers into uniform halves, quarters, or strips, removing seeds and stems. Uniform pieces cook evenly and promote consistent caramelization. Lightly coat the peppers with a small amount of oil and season with salt, pepper, or herbs to enhance flavor and texture. Proper preparation ensures that the peppers roast evenly without sticking or losing moisture.

Air Fryer Cooking Techniques
Arrange the bell peppers in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding to allow proper airflow around each piece. Preheating the air fryer for a few minutes helps maintain consistent temperature and ensures even cooking. Shaking or turning the peppers halfway through cooking exposes all sides to the hot air, promoting uniform browning and slight charring on the edges.

Cooking Time Considerations
Cooking bell peppers at 180–200°C typically takes 10–15 minutes, depending on the size and thickness of the pieces. Smaller strips or thinner slices may cook faster, while larger halves may require the full cooking time. Checking the peppers during the last few minutes allows you to adjust for desired tenderness and caramelization, preventing overcooking or burning.

Texture and Flavor
At this temperature, bell peppers develop tender, slightly softened flesh with golden, caramelized edges. The natural sugars in the peppers are enhanced by the heat, creating a sweet and slightly smoky flavor. Light oil coating and seasoning further improve taste while preserving a healthy preparation. This method produces bell peppers that are versatile and visually appealing for a variety of dishes.

Conclusion

The ideal air fryer temperature for bell peppers is 180–200°C (350–400°F). Proper preparation, uniform cutting, light oil coating, and careful cooking in a single layer ensure even roasting with tender interiors and slightly caramelized edges. This temperature preserves flavor, sweetness, and texture, making bell peppers a delicious and versatile addition to meals.