Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers take the classic appetizer to the next level with a crispy texture, creamy cheese filling, and a touch of spice. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for game days, parties, or a tasty snack. Plus, using the air fryer means less oil and faster cooking time without sacrificing flavor.
Ingredients
- 6 fresh jalapeños, halved lengthwise and seeds removed
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt to taste
- 6 strips of bacon, cut in half (optional)
- 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional, for extra crunch)
Equipment
- Air fryer
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon or spatula
- Knife and cutting board
Instructions
1. Prep the Jalapeños:
Slice the jalapeños in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes using a spoon for less heat.
2. Make the Cheese Filling:
In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, mozzarella, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt. Mix until smooth.
3. Fill the Jalapeños:
Spoon the cheese mixture into each jalapeño half, filling them generously. Optionally, sprinkle panko breadcrumbs on top for added crunch.
4. Wrap with Bacon (Optional):
Wrap each filled jalapeño half with a slice of bacon and secure with a toothpick if needed.
5. Air Fry the Jalapeño Poppers:
Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the jalapeño poppers in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between each one.
- Without Bacon: Cook for 6-8 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- With Bacon: Cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the cheese is melted.
6. Serve Hot:
Allow the jalapeño poppers to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm as is, or pair with your favorite dipping sauce, like ranch or sour cream.
Tips
- Less Heat: Remove all seeds and membranes for a milder jalapeño flavor.
- Extra Crispy: Broil the poppers for 1-2 minutes after air frying for an added crunch.
- Cheese Variations: Try pepper jack, gouda, or cream cheese mixed with herbs for different flavors.
These Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers are an irresistible appetizer with creamy cheese filling, a hint of spice, and crispy perfection. Whether you wrap them in bacon or keep them simple, they’re quick, easy, and sure to please any crowd. Perfect for parties, game days, or a fun snack—dig in and enjoy!
Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers Recipe
Equipment
- Air fryer
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon or spatula
- Knife and cutting board
Ingredients
- 6 fresh jalapeños halved lengthwise and seeds removed
- 4 oz cream cheese softened
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt to taste
- 6 strips of bacon cut in half (optional)
- 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs optional, for extra crunch
Instructions
- Prep the Jalapeños:
- Slice the jalapeños in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes using a spoon for less heat.
- Make the Cheese Filling:
- In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, mozzarella, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt. Mix until smooth.
- Fill the Jalapeños:
- Spoon the cheese mixture into each jalapeño half, filling them generously. Optionally, sprinkle panko breadcrumbs on top for added crunch.
- Wrap with Bacon (Optional):
- Wrap each filled jalapeño half with a slice of bacon and secure with a toothpick if needed.
- Air Fry the Jalapeño Poppers:
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the jalapeño poppers in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between each one.
- Without Bacon: Cook for 6-8 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- With Bacon: Cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the cheese is melted.
- Serve Hot:
- Allow the jalapeño poppers to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm as is, or pair with your favorite dipping sauce, like ranch or sour cream.
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