Crispy Air Fryer Banana Peppers (Easy, Flavorful, and Fun to Make!)

Craving a snack that’s both crispy and flavorful — and just a little unexpected? Say hello to Air Fryer Banana Peppers. Whether you’re new to banana peppers or have a jar of them in your fridge at all times, this recipe is a fresh and delicious way to enjoy them like never before. With a golden crunch on the outside and a subtle tangy-sweet flavor on the inside, these air-fried banana pepper bites are truly addictive.

Perfect as a game-day snack, party appetizer, or crunchy topping for your next salad or sandwich, they come together with just a few ingredients and minimal mess — all thanks to your air fryer!

Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Banana Pepper Recipe

• Crispy without deep frying – No need for oil-drenched frying. The air fryer delivers the perfect crunch with just a light spray of olive oil.
• Big flavor, simple ingredients – Just a handful of pantry staples and your banana peppers are transformed.
• Versatile – Use them as a snack, topping, or even stuff them before coating.
• Great for all diets – Naturally vegetarian, and easy to make vegan or gluten-free.

What Are Banana Peppers?

If you’re not familiar, banana peppers are mild chili peppers with a slightly sweet, tangy flavor and a vibrant yellow hue (though they can ripen to orange or red). They’re often pickled and served on sandwiches, but when cooked fresh—especially air-fried—they offer a whole new experience.

They’re not spicy like jalapeños, which makes them ideal for those who like flavor without too much heat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for depth)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 lb banana peppers, sliced in half lengthwise and deseeded
• Olive oil spray, for crispiness

Optional: add 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese to the flour mixture for a cheesy twist!

How to Make Air Fryer Banana Peppers

Step 1: Prepare the Peppers

Wash and dry your banana peppers. Slice them in half lengthwise and remove all seeds and membranes. You can leave the stem on for a rustic look or remove it.

Step 2: Make the Coating

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. If using Parmesan cheese, mix it in now.

Step 3: Coat the Peppers

Lightly mist the sliced banana peppers with olive oil. Dip them into the flour mixture one by one, making sure each piece is well coated. Set them aside on a wire rack or plate.

Tip: Let the coated peppers sit for 5–10 minutes. This helps the flour mixture stick better during air frying.

Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer

Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and allow it to preheat for about 3 minutes.

Step 5: Air Fry to Crispy Goodness

Place the coated banana peppers in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Do not overcrowd. Lightly spray the tops with olive oil spray.

Air fry for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy on the edges.

Serving Ideas

These crispy banana pepper bites are surprisingly versatile:

• Serve with ranch, marinara, or spicy aioli for dipping.
• Use as a crunchy topping for burgers, hot dogs, or sandwiches.
• Toss over a bed of greens for a next-level salad.
• Add to a charcuterie board for a zesty twist.

Variations to Try

Stuffed Banana Peppers

Before coating, stuff with cream cheese or shredded mozzarella. Then coat and air fry!

Spicy Kick

Mix a pinch of cayenne or crushed red pepper flakes into the flour for heat.

Low-Carb/Keto Version

Use almond flour in place of all-purpose flour and skip the onion powder to lower carbs.

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Banana Peppers

• Don’t skip preheating the air fryer — it’s key to that instant crisp.
• Work in batches to avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket.
• Use pickled banana peppers for a tangier bite, but make sure to pat them dry before coating.
• Want even crispier edges? Add a teaspoon of cornstarch to the flour mix.

How to Store & Reheat

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheat: Pop them back in the air fryer at 350°F for 3–5 minutes until warmed through and crisp.

Freezing not recommended — they’re best fresh for that unbeatable crunch.

What to Serve With Banana Peppers

Pair these crispy banana pepper bites with:

• Grilled chicken or steak
• Loaded nachos
• Sliders or BBQ sandwiches
• Lemonade or iced tea on a hot summer day!

FAQs

1. Can I use jarred/pickled banana peppers?

Yes! Just pat them dry thoroughly before coating. The flavor will be tangier but still delicious.

2. Are banana peppers spicy?

Nope! They’re usually quite mild — making them great for kids or spice-sensitive folks.

3. Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely. Just use a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour as a 1:1 substitute.

4. Can I bake these instead of air frying?

Yes. Place them on a lined baking sheet and bake at 400°F for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway.

5. How do I make these vegan?

The base recipe is already vegan. Just avoid cheese or dairy-based dipping sauces.

Final Thoughts

Air Fryer Banana Peppers are an unexpectedly delightful snack or side that deliver on both crunch and flavor — all while being super easy to make. Whether you’re snacking solo, entertaining guests, or just looking to add something different to dinner, this recipe is guaranteed to please.

So next time you have a handful of banana peppers sitting around, give your air fryer some love and whip up this crispy, crave-worthy dish. You might just discover your new favorite way to eat your veggies!

More Banana Pepper Recipes to Try:

• Pickled Banana Peppers (Quick & Easy)
• Banana Pepper Relish
• Sausage-Stuffed Banana Peppers
• Mississippi Pot Roast (Tender, Juicy, and So Easy!)
• Honey Pineapple Glazed Salmon (Sticky, Sweet & Tropical!)

Honey Pineapple Glazed Salmon (Sticky, Sweet & Tropical!)