I absolutely love these savoury air fryer stuffed pears. As they make the perfect light lunch or appetiser to a main dish. These baked pears are so easy to prepare. Just ten minutes of prep work, and they are cooked to perfection in the air fryer in only 20 minutes! I find myself coming back to this recipe time and again because of how quick and delicious it is. For this recipe, I use Bartlett pears because they give a tender, juicy result that perfectly complements the savoury stuffing.
The combination of flavours from the sweet pears, tangy feta cheese, and earthy beetroot creates an irresistible taste experience. It is a balance of sweet and salty that truly delights the palate. Feta cheese, with its origins in Greek and Mediterranean cultures, has been enjoyed for centuries and gained popularity in the 20th century as a staple in many kitchens. Its crumbly texture and tangy, salty flavour make it the perfect companion for these air fried pears, creating a wonderful contrast to the natural sweetness of the fruit.
Not only is this dish incredibly delicious, but it is also quite nutritious. So pears are an excellent source of fibre, vitamin C, vitamin K, and antioxidants, making them a heart healthy choice. The feta cheese adds calcium and protein. While the beetroot is packed with essential vitamins and minerals, along with anti-inflammatory compounds that support overall health. The spinach and rocket bring additional vitamins and iron. As well as a delightful peppery flavour that elevates the entire dish. This stuffed pear recipe is such a well rounded, healthful option that is perfect for anyone looking for a tasty, nutritious bite.
PREP 10 minutes
COOK 20 minutes
SERVES 1 person
KIT you will need an air fryer.
Ingredients for Air Fryer Stuffed Pears
1 pear, washed peeled and sliced in half (Bartlett pears work best)
1 Beetroot peeled and chopped
Feta cheese
Spinach & Rocket leaves to serve
A drizzle of balsamic vinegar to serve
Method
I started by giving my pear a good wash and dry, then peeled it – though you can absolutely leave the skin on for extra texture and fibre. Then I sliced the pear in half lengthways, from top to bottom. Using a spoon to scoop out the tough core and seeds in the centre. I also gently hollowed out a bit more of the flesh to make room for the stuffing. But I saved those pear scoops to blend into a refreshing drink later – nothing goes to waste!
For the filling, I finely chopped some cooked beetroot and creamy feta cheese. Combining the earthy and tangy flavours into a colourful, savoury mix. I carefully spooned the mixture into each hollowed-out pear half. Packing it in just enough to hold its shape without overflowing.
Then I placed the stuffed pear halves into the air fryer basket leaving the crisper trays in. And then cook them at 180°C for around 20 minutes. I made sure to check them halfway through cooking to prevent them from browning too quickly or becoming too soft. When they are perfectly cooked – soft on the inside and slightly caramelised on the edges – I served them warm alongside a peppery spinach and rocket salad, finishing the dish with a drizzle of balsamic vinegar for brightness.
So this dish is incredibly versatile and can be easily adapted. Add crushed walnuts or pecans for a crunch, a drizzle of honey for sweetness, or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for heat. It’s ideal as a light lunch, a fancy appetiser, or a unique side dish for a dinner party. The elegant presentation and rich flavours pair wonderfully with a crisp white wine or a light red. Give it a go – you might find your new favourite way to enjoy pears!
Tips for Air Fryer Stuffed Pears
1. Choose ripe but firm pears
You should use pears that are ripe enough to be sweet but still firm enough to hold their shape during the cooking. Conference or Bosc varieties work particularly well for this dish.
2. Halve and core with care
Slice the pears in half lengthways and use a spoon or melon baller to remove the core and a bit of extra flesh to create a neat cavity for stuffing.
3. Add a squeeze of lemon
To stop the pears from browning before cooking, lightly brush the cut sides with lemon juice. It also adds a subtle zing to balance the sweetness.
4. Stuff with your favourites
Common fillings include a mix of chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans), raisins or dried cranberries, cinnamon, oats, and a drizzle of honey or maple syrup. You can even add cream cheese or mascarpone for a richer version.
5. Preheat your air fryer
It is always beneficial to heat your air fryer to 180°C (356°F) for a few minutes so that the pears start cooking evenly right away. And leave the crisper trays in.
6. Air fry until tender
Cook the stuffed pears for around 12 to 15 minutes, or until they’re fork-tender and the tops are golden. Keep an eye on them near the end so they don’t over-soften.
7. Serve warm or cold
These pears are so delicious straight out of the air fryer but are also great when chilled. Top with a Greek yoghurt, rummy honey, or a drizzle of balsamic vinegar for an extra treat.
Perfect for a dinner party dessert or a cosy treat, these simple air fryer stuffed pears are so easy and indulgent so give them a try!
Similar recipes
If you love these sweet air fryer stuffed pears, then you may like my stuffed air fryer courgettes recipe.
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