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Air Fryer Jalapeno Poppers Recipe

4.7 from 139 reviews

These Air Fryer Jalapeno Poppers are a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer featuring creamy, cheesy filling with crispy bacon, perfectly cooked in an air fryer for a quick and flavorful snack or party treat.

Ingredients

Scale

Jalapeños

  • 6 Large Jalapeños
  • 1 Tablespoon Oil

Filling

  • 8 ounces Cream Cheese – softened
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon Onion Powder
  • 12 teaspoons Half & Half
  • Pinch Salt/Pepper
  • 1/4 Cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese
  • 4 Slices Cooked Bacon – chopped

Topping

  • Additional shredded cheddar cheese (for topping)
  • Bacon crumbles (for topping)
  • 2 Green Onions – sliced

Instructions

  1. Prepare Jalapeños: Slice the jalapeños lengthwise and carefully remove the seeds and veins to reduce heat. Rub each jalapeño half with oil to prepare for air frying, then place them in a greased air fryer basket.
  2. Pre-cook Jalapeños: Air fry the jalapeños at 400ºF for 4 minutes. After cooking, let them cool for about 5 minutes or until they can be handled comfortably. Place them upside down on a paper towel to drain any excess liquid or oil.
  3. Make Filling: In a bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Add half & half and mix well until creamy and smooth. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese and chopped cooked bacon.
  4. Fill Jalapeños: Spoon the cream cheese mixture into each jalapeño half, filling them generously. Place the filled jalapeños back into the air fryer basket. Sprinkle additional shredded cheddar cheese and bacon crumbles on top for extra flavor.
  5. Final Air Fry: Air fry the filled jalapeños at 400ºF for 5 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Remove the poppers from the air fryer, top with sliced green onions, and serve warm as a delicious appetizer or snack.

Notes

  • Removing the seeds and veins helps control the heat level of the jalapeños.
  • Using softened cream cheese ensures a smooth filling.
  • Be sure to grease the air fryer basket to prevent sticking.
  • Let the jalapeños cool slightly after their initial air fry to handle them safely without burning your hands.
  • You can adjust the amount of half & half to achieve desired creaminess in the filling.
  • For extra crisp, you can add a light sprinkle of panko breadcrumbs on top before the final air fry.

Keywords: jalapeno poppers, air fryer appetizers, cheesy jalapeno poppers, bacon jalapeno poppers, party snacks, easy appetizers