Description
Crispy, flavorful, and irresistibly tangy, these Air Fryer Banana Peppers make the perfect snack, appetizer, or party treat. Whether you’re using them as a crunchy side or layering them onto a sandwich or burger, air frying brings out their natural sweetness while keeping them light and healthy. Easy to prepare and even easier to eat, these golden bites will become your go-to air fryer recipe in no time.
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Ingredients
For the Banana Peppers:
6-8 large banana peppers (mild or hot, based on preference)
½ cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs, beaten
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp paprika
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
Olive oil spray
For Dipping Sauce (Optional):
½ cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
1 tbsp mayonnaise
1 tsp lemon juice
1 tsp chopped dill or parsley
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Banana Peppers
Rinse and dry the banana peppers.
Slice each pepper into ½-inch rings, removing the seeds and membranes if desired for less heat.
Set aside while preparing the dredging station.
Step 2: Set Up a Dredging Station
In one shallow bowl, place the flour.
In the second bowl, beat the eggs.
In the third bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Bread the Peppers
Dip each banana pepper ring first in flour, shaking off excess.
Next, dip into the beaten eggs, then coat with the seasoned panko mixture.
Press lightly to ensure the crumbs stick well.
Place the coated rings on a plate or tray.
Step 4: Air Fry the Peppers
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F for 3-5 minutes.
Lightly spray the basket with olive oil.
Arrange the banana pepper rings in a single layer, not touching.
Spray the tops lightly with oil to promote crispiness.
Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
Step 5: Make the Dipping Sauce (Optional)
While the peppers cook, mix together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, dill, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
Chill until ready to serve.
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy
Remove banana peppers from the air fryer and let them cool slightly.
Serve immediately with dipping sauce or enjoy as a crunchy topping on burgers, sandwiches, or salads.
Notes
Use Panko – They provide the best crunchy texture.
Don’t Overcrowd – Air needs to circulate for even crisping.
Spray Lightly – A quick spritz of oil enhances browning without excess fat.
Flip Halfway – Ensures even cooking on both sides.
Eat Fresh – Best enjoyed hot and crisp, right out of the air fryer.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Cuisine: American