Air Fryer Jalapeno Poppers Recipe

Introduction

Air Fryer Jalapeno Poppers are a quick and delicious snack that combines creamy, cheesy filling with the perfect spicy kick of jalapeños. Crispy, flavorful, and easy to make, they’re great for parties or a tasty appetizer any time.

Ingredients

• 6 Large Jalapeños
• 1 Tablespoon Oil
• 8 ounces Cream Cheese, softened
• 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
• 1/2 teaspoon Onion Powder
• 1-2 teaspoons Half & Half
• Pinch of Salt and Pepper
• 1/4 Cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese
• 4 Slices Cooked Bacon, chopped
• 2 Green Onions, sliced

Instructions

1. Step 1: Slice the jalapeños lengthwise and remove seeds and veins to reduce heat. Rub them with oil, then place in a greased air fryer basket.
2. Step 2: Air fry the jalapeños at 400ºF for 4 minutes. Let them cool for about 5 minutes until they can be handled safely. Place them upside down on a paper towel to drain any excess liquid or oil.
3. Step 3: In a bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Add the half & half and blend until smooth and creamy. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and chopped bacon.
4. Step 4: Fill each jalapeño half with the cream cheese mixture. Return them to the air fryer basket. Top with extra shredded cheese and bacon crumbles if desired.
5. Step 5: Air fry at 400ºF for 5 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden.
6. Step 6: Sprinkle with sliced green onions and serve warm.

Tips & Variations

• For less heat, remove all seeds and veins thoroughly or substitute some jalapeños with mini sweet peppers.
• Add a bit of smoked paprika or cayenne to the cream cheese mixture for extra smoky flavor.
• Use turkey bacon or omit bacon for a vegetarian version.
• Serve with a side of ranch or sour cream for dipping.

Storage

Store any leftover poppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350ºF for 3-4 minutes to regain crispness, or warm in the oven. Avoid microwaving to keep them from becoming soggy.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these poppers ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare and fill the jalapeños ahead of time. Keep them covered in the refrigerator and air fry just before serving to maintain freshness and crispness.

How spicy are these jalapeño poppers?

The spiciness depends on how many seeds and veins you remove from the jalapeños. Removing them reduces heat significantly, making the poppers mild to medium spicy and enjoyable for most palates.

Air Fryer Jalapeno Poppers Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 69 reviews

Crispy and spicy Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers stuffed with a creamy mixture of cream cheese, cheddar, and bacon, perfect as a flavorful appetizer or snack. Made quickly using the air fryer, these poppers offer a deliciously cheesy and smoky bite with a touch of heat.

• Author: Windy
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 9 minutes
• Total Time: 19 minutes
• Yield: 12 jalapeño halves (serves 6) 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Air Frying
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Jalapeños

• 6 Large Jalapeños
• 1 Tablespoon Oil

Filling

• 8 ounces Cream Cheese, softened
• 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
• 1/2 teaspoon Onion Powder
• 1–2 teaspoons Half & Half
• Pinch Salt
• Pinch Pepper
• 1/4 Cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese
• 4 Slices Cooked Bacon, chopped
• 2 Green Onions, sliced

Instructions

1. Prepare Jalapeños: Slice the jalapeños lengthwise and remove all seeds and veins to reduce heat. Rub each jalapeño half with oil, ensuring they are coated evenly, then place them in a greased air fryer basket.
2. Pre-cook Jalapeños: Air fry the jalapeños at 400ºF for 4 minutes. After cooking, let them cool for 5 minutes or until they can be handled safely. Place them upside down on a paper towel to absorb any excess liquid or oil.
3. Make the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Add half & half to achieve a creamy and smooth consistency. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese and chopped cooked bacon until well incorporated.
4. Stuff Jalapeños: Fill each pre-cooked jalapeño half with the cream cheese mixture, distributing it evenly. Return the stuffed jalapeños to the air fryer basket, and top each one with additional shredded cheddar cheese and bacon crumbles.
5. Final Air Fry: Air fry the stuffed jalapeños at 400ºF for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the filling to melt and the tops to become slightly golden and crispy.
6. Garnish and Serve: Remove the poppers from the air fryer and sprinkle with sliced green onions. Serve warm as a delicious appetizer or snack.

Notes

• Removing the seeds and veins from the jalapeños reduces the heat, but you can leave some if you prefer spicier poppers.
• Make sure the cream cheese is softened to easily mix the filling ingredients.
• Grease the air fryer basket or use parchment paper designed for air fryers to prevent sticking.
• Adjust cooking times slightly depending on your specific air fryer model and size of jalapeños.
• This recipe can be made gluten-free if using gluten-free bacon and checking labels on seasonings.
• For a vegetarian option, omit the bacon and add extra cheese or chopped nuts for texture.

Keywords: jalapeno poppers, air fryer, appetizer, spicy snack, cream cheese, bacon, cheddar cheese