Description
These Air Fryer Jalapeno Poppers are a delightful, spicy appetizer featuring jalapeno halves filled with a creamy mixture of cream cheese, crispy bacon, sharp cheddar, and spices, all perfectly cooked in an air fryer for a quick and delicious snack.
Ingredients
Jalapenos
- 10 medium/large jalapenos
Filling
- 8 oz. cream cheese, room temperature
- 8 oz. bacon, cooked and crumbled (reserve a few tablespoons for garnish)
- 8 oz. sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (divided)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Pinch of cayenne pepper
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced green onion + more for garnish
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Fresh cracked pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Heat the air fryer to 350°F to ensure it's ready for cooking the jalapeno poppers evenly and quickly.
- Prepare the Jalapenos: Cut each jalapeno in half lengthwise and use a spoon to remove the ribs and seeds. Discard the removed ribs and seeds to reduce heat and ensure a smooth filling space.
- Make the Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the room temperature cream cheese, cooked and crumbled bacon (reserving some for garnish), half of the shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, green onions, and a generous pinch of kosher salt and fresh cracked pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Fill the Jalapenos: Evenly divide the cheese and bacon filling among the jalapeno halves, filling each cavity completely.
- Add Remaining Cheese: Gently press the remaining shredded cheddar cheese into each stuffed jalapeno popper rather than just sprinkling on top. This helps keep the cheese in place during cooking.
- Arrange in Air Fryer: Place the filled jalapenos about an inch apart in the air fryer basket or tray to allow even air circulation and cooking.
- Cook: Air fry the poppers at 350°F for 6 to 8 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the jalapenos are tender.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the poppers from the air fryer, garnish with the reserved crumbled bacon and additional sliced green onions, then serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- Wear gloves when handling jalapenos to avoid irritation from the capsaicin.
- Removing seeds reduces heat but leaving some can add extra kick.
- Bacon can be cooked in the air fryer as well for convenience.
- Adjust spices like cayenne pepper according to your heat preference.
- Ensure cream cheese is at room temperature for easier mixing.
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking.
- Prep Time: 8 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
