Ingredients and preparation
To create the perfect Air Fryer Jalapeno Poppers, you’ll need a handful of simple ingredients that come together to deliver a burst of flavor with every bite. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 6 large jalapeno peppers – Choose firm, fresh peppers with a bright green color. These will be the vessels for your delicious filling.
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened – The cream cheese should be at room temperature to ensure it mixes smoothly with the other ingredients.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – Sharp cheddar works best for a bold, cheesy flavor, but feel free to use your favorite variety.
- 4 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled – Bacon adds a smoky, savory element that pairs perfectly with the spicy jalapenos.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder – This adds a subtle depth of flavor to the filling.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder – Complements the garlic powder and enhances the overall taste.
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika – Adds a hint of smokiness and a touch of color to the filling.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Season the filling to your preference.
Before you start assembling your poppers, it’s important to prepare the jalapenos properly. Begin by washing the peppers thoroughly. Then, slice each jalapeno in half lengthwise, and carefully remove the seeds and membranes using a small spoon or a paring knife. If you prefer a milder popper, make sure to remove all the seeds, as they contain most of the heat. For those who enjoy a bit more spice, you can leave some seeds intact.
Next, in a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined and smooth. This creamy, cheesy mixture will be the filling for your jalapeno poppers.
Once your filling is ready, use a spoon to generously stuff each jalapeno half with the mixture. Be sure to press the filling down slightly to ensure it stays in place during cooking. Now, your jalapeno poppers are prepped and ready for the air fryer!
Step-by-step cooking instructions
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Preheating is essential to ensure that the jalapeno poppers cook evenly and develop a nice, crispy exterior. While the air fryer is heating up, you can prepare the basket by lightly spraying it with non-stick cooking spray or brushing it with a small amount of oil. This will help prevent the poppers from sticking to the basket during cooking.
Once the air fryer is preheated, carefully place the stuffed jalapeno halves into the basket in a single layer. Make sure to leave a little space between each popper to allow for proper air circulation, which is key to achieving that perfect crispy texture. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook the poppers in batches to avoid overcrowding.
Cook the jalapeno poppers in the air fryer for 8-10 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the filling is golden and bubbly. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of cooking to ensure they don’t overcook or burn. If you prefer your poppers to have a bit more color, you can increase the temperature to 400°F (200°C) for the last 2 minutes of cooking.
Once the poppers are done, carefully remove them from the air fryer using tongs or a spatula. The filling will be hot, so allow them to cool for a few minutes before serving. This brief cooling period also helps the filling to set slightly, making the poppers easier to handle and eat.
Tips for serving and variations
When it comes to serving your Air Fryer Jalapeno Poppers, presentation and pairing can elevate the experience. These poppers are best enjoyed fresh out of the air fryer, while the filling is still warm and gooey. Arrange them on a platter, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and added freshness. If you want to add a bit of extra flair, consider drizzling a little sour cream or ranch dressing over the top, or serve these condiments on the side for dipping.
For a more substantial snack or appetizer spread, pair your jalapeno poppers with other finger foods like crispy chicken wings, mozzarella sticks, or a fresh veggie platter. The creamy, spicy poppers also pair wonderfully with a cold beer or a refreshing margarita, making them a perfect addition to game day or a casual gathering with friends.
If you’re looking to switch things up, there are plenty of variations you can try. For a different flavor profile, swap out the cheddar cheese for pepper jack or gouda, or add a bit of crumbled blue cheese to the filling for a tangy twist. You can also experiment with different seasonings—try adding a pinch of cumin or chili powder for a bit of extra spice, or mix in some chopped green onions or fresh herbs for added freshness.
For those who prefer a vegetarian option, simply omit the bacon and consider adding some finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes or olives to the filling for a burst of umami flavor. You can also make these poppers gluten-free by ensuring that all your ingredients, particularly the bacon and seasonings, are certified gluten-free.
If you’re serving a crowd or want to prepare these poppers in advance, you can easily make them ahead of time. Simply assemble the poppers as directed, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. When you’re ready to serve, just pop them in the air fryer and cook as directed—no one will ever know they weren’t made fresh!