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
Scale
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
