If you’re craving a delicious, crowd-pleasing snack that’s easy to make, look no further than Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers. These crispy, cheesy, and slightly spicy bites are the ultimate appetizer for parties, game days, or simply a cozy evening at home. Made with cream cheese, cheddar, smoky bacon, and a crunchy panko topping, these poppers deliver bold flavors in every bite. The best part? They’re cooked in the air fryer, so they’re faster and healthier than traditional fried versions.

Imagine biting into a tender, smoky jalapeño filled with creamy, cheesy goodness and topped with crispy bacon-infused breadcrumbs. It’s the kind of snack that keeps everyone coming back for seconds (or thirds!). Whether you’re an experienced cook or a beginner, this recipe is easy to follow and guarantees delicious results every time.

Why You’ll Love Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers

These jalapeño poppers are a standout snack for so many reasons:

• Perfect Texture: The air fryer makes them crispy on the outside and tender on the inside without the need for deep frying.
• Packed with Flavor: From smoky paprika to creamy cheese and bacon, every bite bursts with bold flavors.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, they’re ideal for last-minute appetizers.
• Customizable: Adjust the spice level, cheese blend, or toppings to suit your preferences.
• Great for Sharing: These poppers are the ultimate finger food and perfect for entertaining.

Ingredients for Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers

Here’s everything you’ll need to make these irresistible jalapeño poppers:

For the Filling

• 6 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 4 ounces extra-sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (about 1 cup)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 3/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

For the Jalapeños

• 8 medium to large jalapeños (about 1 pound), halved lengthwise and seeded

For the Topping

• 5 ounces sliced bacon (about 5 slices), cut into 1/2-inch pieces
• 2/3 cup panko breadcrumbs

For Cooking

• Cooking spray

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these easy steps to make perfectly crispy and cheesy jalapeño poppers in your air fryer:

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

1. Place 6 ounces of cream cheese in a medium bowl and let it soften at room temperature for about 45 minutes. If you’re short on time, microwave it for about 25 seconds to soften.
2. Halve 8 jalapeños lengthwise and carefully scrape out the seeds and membranes. This step reduces the spice level.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon and Panko

1. Cut the bacon slices crosswise into 1/2-inch pieces.
2. Heat a medium skillet over medium heat and add the bacon pieces. Cook, stirring occasionally, until they’re just starting to brown and crisp, about 4–6 minutes. Remove the skillet from the heat.
3. Transfer the cooked bacon to a paper towel-lined cutting board. Add 2/3 cup of panko breadcrumbs to the bacon grease left in the skillet and stir to combine.
4. Finely chop the bacon and mix it back into the breadcrumb mixture. Set aside.

Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Filling

1. Grate 4 ounces of cheddar cheese (about 1 cup) and add it to the softened cream cheese.
2. Add garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes (if using), kosher salt, and black pepper.
3. Mix everything with a fork until the ingredients are fully combined and the filling is mostly smooth.

Step 4: Stuff the Jalapeños

1. Fill each jalapeño half with about 1 tablespoon of the cream cheese mixture. The filling should be flush with the rim of the jalapeño.
2. Dip the cream cheese-filled side of each jalapeño into the panko and bacon mixture, pressing gently to help it stick.

Step 5: Air Fry the Poppers

1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. Coat the air fryer basket or tray with cooking spray.
2. Arrange the jalapeño poppers in a single layer in the basket or tray, leaving about 1/2 inch of space between each popper. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray to help them crisp up.
3. Air fry the poppers for 7–10 minutes, or until the filling is hot, the jalapeños are fork-tender, and the topping is golden-brown. If the topping starts to brown too quickly, tent the poppers with aluminum foil.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

1. Carefully remove the jalapeño poppers from the air fryer and let them cool for a few minutes.
2. Serve warm as a delicious appetizer or snack.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	140 kcal
Protein	4 g
Total Fat	12 g
Saturated Fat	6 g
Carbohydrates	5 g
Fiber	1 g
Sodium	220 mg

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and depend on specific ingredients used.

Tips for Making the Best Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers

1. Choose the Right Jalapeños: Look for medium to large jalapeños that are firm and have smooth skin. This makes them easier to fill and ensures even cooking.
2. Adjust the Spice Level: Removing the seeds and membranes reduces the heat, but if you prefer extra spice, leave some in or add extra red pepper flakes.
3. Make Ahead: You can prep the poppers in advance and refrigerate them until ready to air fry. This is a great time-saver for parties!
4. Use Gloves: When handling jalapeños, wear gloves to avoid skin irritation from the capsaicin.
5. Customize the Toppings: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack or Monterey Jack, or add crushed tortilla chips for extra crunch.

FAQs About Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers

1. Can I make these jalapeño poppers in the oven?

Yes! Bake them at 375°F on a parchment-lined baking sheet for 15–20 minutes, or until the topping is golden and the jalapeños are tender.

2. Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?

Absolutely! Turkey bacon is a great alternative and works just as well in this recipe.

3. Are these poppers gluten-free?

To make them gluten-free, replace the panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs.

4. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover jalapeño poppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the air fryer for 2–3 minutes to restore their crispiness.

5. Can I freeze jalapeño poppers?

Yes! Freeze the stuffed, uncooked jalapeños on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Cook them straight from frozen, adding 2–3 minutes to the air fryer time.

6. What can I serve with jalapeño poppers?

Serve them with dipping sauces like ranch, blue cheese dressing, or a zesty chipotle mayo for added flavor.

Conclusion: Make Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers Today!

Now that you know how easy it is to make Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers, there’s no reason to wait! These crispy, cheesy, and smoky bites are perfect for every occasion, from game days to casual snacks. With just a few simple ingredients and your trusty air fryer, you can whip up a batch of poppers that will wow your family and friends.

Print