This Air Fried Jalapeno Poppers recipe is a perfect appetizer. It blends the spicy kick of jalapeno peppers with the deliciousness of crispy bacon, all mixed with creamy cream cheese, then air-fried to achieve a crispy texture instead of being baked or deep-fried.
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I fell in love with a quick, simple, and delicious way to enjoy a classic appetizer at home. Whether you’re hosting a game night, a party, or just treating yourself, these stuffed jalapeños will impress your guests! The moment I took my first bite of air-fried stuffed jalapeño peppers, it was as if an explosion of flavors danced in my mouth. Each pepper is filled with a smooth mixture of cream cheese, which pairs perfectly with the crunchy, salty taste of bacon. A layer of melted shredded cheese sits on top, giving it a rich finish. As the air fryer does its job, the peppers turn into tasty little bites, with slightly charred and crispy skins while the insides stay wonderfully creamy. Taking that first bite brings a burst of flavor that is so good, you won’t be able to eat just one.
While most recipes require the addition of breadcrumbs, I decided to skip the breadcrumbs in my recipe to highlight the delicious flavors of the cream cheese, smoky bacon, and spicy jalapeños. This way, every ingredient stands out on its own. Going breadcrumb-free also means you get a low-carb dish that is creamy and has a nice crunch from the bacon and the jalapeño skin. Plus, it makes for a quicker and simpler cooking experience, letting me enjoy the process without any unnecessary steps.
Ingredients Needed
- Jalapeños: The main ingredient; provides heat and flavor. The level of spiciness can vary based on the jalapeños you choose. Please see the tips below.
- Cream Cheese: Softened or at room temperature. It acts as the creamy filling that balances the heat of the jalapeños. It adds richness and a smooth texture.
- Bacon: While it is optional, it adds a savory, smoky flavor and crispy texture. And enhances the overall richness of the poppers.
- Cheddar Cheese (or other cheese): I’m using a mix of Mozzarella and Cheddar cheese. It adds flavor and a melty texture. Cheddar or pepper jack are popular choices for an extra kick.
- Optional Add-ins Fresh herbs (like chives, green onions or cilantro) can brighten the flavor.
- Cooking spray: It is optional, but spray the air fryer basket before adding the jalapenos.
Which Jalapeños to Choose?
Varieties: Some jalapeño varieties are bred specifically for lower heat levels, such as “mild jalapeños.”
Color: For spicy jalapeños, look for firm, dark green peppers. The deeper the color, the more mature the pepper tends to be, often indicating more heat.
Size: Select those that are about 3-4 inches long for more heat.
Skin Texture: Choose jalapeños with smooth, glossy skin. Wrinkled or dull skin can indicate over-ripeness and potentially less flavor.
Shape: Peppers that are more slender and have a slightly curved shape often carry more heat compared to thicker, more bulbous ones.
Seed and Membrane: If you can, select peppers that are known for lower heat, or remove the seeds and membranes, which contain much of the heat.
Taste Test: If possible, sample a small piece. Even within the same batch, heat levels can vary significantly, so tasting is a great way to determine spiciness.
Tips on How to Handle Jalapeno Peppers
Handling jalapeños without experiencing skin burn is important, especially if you’re sensitive to capsaicin (the compound that gives peppers their heat). Here are some tips to help you avoid irritation:
1. Wear Gloves: Best Practice: Use disposable or reusable gloves when cutting and handling jalapeños. This creates a barrier between your skin and the capsaicin.
2. Avoid Touching Your Face: Stay Cautious: Be mindful not to touch your face, especially your eyes, while handling jalapeños. Capsaicin can cause irritation and burning.
3. Wash Hands Thoroughly: If you do handle jalapeños bare-handed, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water immediately afterward. You can also use an oil-based soap or dish detergent, as the oil helps dissolve capsaicin.
4. Remove Seeds Carefully: Use a Spoon: When removing seeds and membranes, use a spoon or a small knife instead of your fingers to minimize skin contact.
5. Cut in a Well-Ventilated Area: Airflow Helps: Cutting jalapeños in a well-ventilated area can help reduce the intensity of the smell and prevent irritation to your nose and eyes.
6. Rinse with Milk or Oil: For Irritation: If you do experience skin irritation, rinse the affected area with milk or an oil-based product, which can help neutralize the heat.
How to Make Stuffed Jalapeno Poppers in the Air Fryer
Prepare the Jalapeños: Wash and dry jalapeno peppers. Cut each jalapeño in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes. Be sure to wear gloves to avoid any irritation from the spicy oils. Remove the seeds and membranes, especially if you’re sensitive to heat. While some spiciness is welcome, removing these elements helps control the overall heat level, making the poppers enjoyable for everyone.
Make the Filling: In a bowl, combine the cream cheese, cheddar cheese, green onions, garlic powder, onion powder and salt, and pepper to taste. Mix until well combined.
Stuff the Jalapeños: Fill each jalapeño half with the cheese mixture, pressing gently to ensure it’s packed.
Air Fry: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F. Arrange the jalapeño poppers in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 4-5 minutes. Then open the air fryer basket and top each pepper with more shredded cheese. Cook for an additional 4-5 minutes or until the tops are golden and crispy.
Serve: Allow the poppers to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them on their own or with your favorite dipping sauce. I chose homemade Blue Cheese Sauce to balance off the heat from spicy Jalapenos.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the filling ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the cream cheese mixture a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just stuff the jalapeños when you’re ready to cook.
How long do I cook jalapeño poppers in the air fryer?
Cook them at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes, but cooking times may vary depending on your air fryer model.
What can I use instead of cream cheese?
You can substitute with ricotta, goat cheese, or dairy-free cream cheese for a different flavor or dietary preference.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover poppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the air fryer for best results.
Can I freeze stuffed jalapeño poppers?
Yes, you can freeze them before cooking. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer to a freezer bag. Cook from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Do I need to preheat the air fryer?
Preheating is recommended for even cooking, but check your air fryer’s instructions as some models do not require it.
How can I make them spicier?
Leave some seeds in the jalapeños or add extra spicy ingredients, like chopped fresh chili peppers or a dash of hot sauce to the cream cheese filling.
What dipping sauces go well with jalapeño poppers?
Popular choices include ranch dressing, sour cream, and guacamole, or you can try this Copycat Chick-fil-A sauce.
Can I make them without bacon?
Absolutely! You can omit the bacon or substitute it with a vegetarian option, like smoked paprika or crumbled tempeh for a similar smoky flavor.
Jalapeno Poppers in Air Fryer (Video)
More Air Fryer Jalapeno Recipes You’ll Love
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Air Fryer Stuffed Jalapeno Poppers recipe
Ingredients
- 8 Jalapeno peppers medium to large size (3-4 inches long)
- 3/4 cup cooked and crumbled bacon About 7- slices of cooked bacon
- 8 oz cream cheese room temperature
- 3/4 cup shredded cheese of choice I used Mexican blend. Plus more shredded cheese to sprinkle on top.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- salt + pepper to taste
- cooking spray It is optional, but I spray the air fryer basket before adding the jalapenos.
Instructions
- Prepare the Jalapeños: Wash and dry jalapeno peppers. Cut each jalapeño in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes. Be sure to wear gloves to avoid any irritation from the spicy oils. Remove the seeds and membranes, especially if you're sensitive to heat. While some spiciness is welcome, removing these elements helps control the overall heat level, making the poppers enjoyable for everyone.
- Make the Filling: In a bowl, combine the cream cheese, cheddar cheese, green onions, garlic powder, onion powder and salt, and pepper to taste. Mix until well combined.
- Stuff the Jalapeños: Fill each jalapeño half with the cheese mixture, pressing gently to ensure it's packed.
- Air Fry: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F. Arrange the jalapeño poppers in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 4-5 minutes. Then open the air fryer basket and top each pepper with more shredded cheese. Cook for an additional 4-5 minutes or until the tops are golden and crispy.
- Serve: Allow the poppers to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them on their own or with your favorite dipping sauce. I chose homemade Blue Cheese Sauce to balance off the heat from spicy Jalapenos.
Notes
Nutrition
My question. What about the bacon wrapped jalapeño poppers ?????
If you use a grapefruit spoon to clean out the jalapeños, it makes it a very easy job.
Thank you for the suggestion. I will give it a try
Delicious….also made them stuffed with cornbread mix( Jiffy Mix) and crumbled bacon and wrapped with bacon I n .. enjoy your recipes..Thank yiu
This recipe was awesome. My hubby has been bugging me to make these for 6 months. A real winner!
HI Jane. Glad you made it and liked it. It is my top AF recipe too. Irresistible!