Air Fryer Jalapeno Poppers Recipe
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
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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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