Air Fryer Jalapeno Poppers Recipe
Introduction
Air Fryer Jalapeno Poppers are a perfect spicy snack that’s crispy on the outside and creamy inside. These bite-sized treats are easy to make and packed with cheesy, smoky flavor.
Ingredients
- 4 ounces cream cheese (room temperature, ½ brick)
- ½ cup freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup bacon bits (optional)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon ground paprika
- 6 jalapeno peppers (halved lengthwise, seeds and ribs removed)
Instructions
- Step 1: Lightly grease the air fryer basket with olive oil spray and set it aside.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the cream cheese, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, and paprika. Stir in bacon bits if using.
- Step 3: Divide the cheese mixture evenly among the jalapeno halves, about 1 tablespoon per half depending on size.
- Step 4: Place the stuffed peppers in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Step 5: Cook at 375°F for 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the jalapenos are blistered.
- Step 6: Serve immediately and enjoy your cheesy, spicy poppers!
Tips & Variations
- For extra crispiness, sprinkle panko breadcrumbs on top before cooking.
- Try adding chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or chives to the cheese mixture for fresh flavor.
- If you prefer less heat, use mini sweet peppers instead of jalapenos.
- Make it vegetarian by omitting bacon bits or substituting with crispy fried onions.
Storage
Store leftover jalapeno poppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-5 minutes to restore crispness before serving.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I prepare jalapeno poppers ahead of time?
Yes, you can stuff the jalapenos and keep them covered in the fridge for a few hours before cooking. For best results, cook them fresh when ready.
What can I use instead of cream cheese?
You can substitute cream cheese with mascarpone or a soft goat cheese for a different but still creamy texture.
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Air Fryer Jalapeno Poppers Recipe
- Total Time: 18-20 minutes
- Yield: 12 jalapeno popper halves 1x
Description
Crispy, creamy Air Fryer Jalapeno Poppers are a deliciously spicy appetizer featuring jalapeños stuffed with a savory blend of cream cheese, sharp cheddar, and optional bacon bits, cooked quickly in the air fryer for perfectly melted cheese and blistered peppers.
Ingredients
Cheese Mixture
- 4 ounces cream cheese, room temperature (½ brick)
- ½ cup freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup bacon bits (optional)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon ground paprika
Jalapeños
- 6 jalapeno peppers, halved lengthwise, seeds and ribs removed
Other
- Olive oil spray, for greasing the air fryer basket
Instructions
- Prepare the Air Fryer Basket: Lightly grease the air fryer basket with olive oil spray and set it aside to prevent the peppers from sticking during cooking.
- Mix the Cheese Filling: In a large bowl, combine the cream cheese, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, garlic powder, and ground paprika. Stir well until fully blended. Add bacon bits if you choose to include them, mixing evenly.
- Stuff the Jalapeños: Divide the cheese mixture evenly among the halved jalapeños, placing approximately 1 tablespoon of filling into each jalapeño half, adjusting based on their size.
- Cook in the Air Fryer: Arrange the stuffed jalapeños in the prepared air fryer basket without overcrowding. Set the air fryer temperature to 375°F (190°C) and cook for 8–10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, gooey, and the jalapeño skins are blistered and slightly charred.
- Serve: Remove the jalapeno poppers from the air fryer and serve immediately while hot and melty. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Notes
- For a spicier bite, leave a few jalapeño seeds in.
- Use lactose-free cream cheese to make the dish low lactose.
- The optional bacon bits add smoky flavor but can be omitted for a vegetarian option.
- Ensure jalapeños are halved lengthwise and seeds removed to reduce heat and create space for filling.
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to allow even cooking and proper blistering of the peppers.
- Serve with a side of ranch or sour cream for dipping, if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8-10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: jalapeno poppers, air fryer appetizers, spicy snacks, stuffed jalapenos, cream cheese poppers, easy appetizers
