Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers (Print View)

Crispy jalapeños filled with creamy cheese blend, air-fried until golden. Perfect appetizer with a spicy kick.

# Ingredient List:

→ Jalapeños

01 - 8 large fresh jalapeños

→ Filling

02 - 4 oz cream cheese, softened
03 - 4 oz shredded cheddar cheese
04 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
05 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
06 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
07 - 1/4 teaspoon salt

→ Coating

08 - 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs
09 - 1 tablespoon olive oil

→ Optional Toppings

10 - 2 tablespoons cooked, crumbled bacon

# Directions:

01 - Preheat your air fryer to 375°F for 5 minutes.
02 - Wash the jalapeños. Slice each in half lengthwise and use a spoon to carefully remove seeds and membranes. Wear gloves if sensitive to spice.
03 - In a bowl, combine cream cheese, cheddar cheese, chives, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt until smooth.
04 - Fill each jalapeño half with the cheese mixture, mounding slightly.
05 - In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with olive oil. Sprinkle or press the breadcrumb mixture onto the tops of the filled jalapeños.
06 - Arrange the poppers in a single layer in the air fryer basket, working in batches if necessary.
07 - Air fry for 8 to 10 minutes until the tops are golden and the jalapeños are tender.
08 - If desired, sprinkle with crumbled bacon immediately after cooking. Serve warm.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • They cook in ten minutes, so you can pull off impressive appetizers without breaking a sweat.
  • The creamy filling cools the jalapeño fire just enough to keep you reaching for another.
  • You skip the deep fryer mess but still get that golden, crispy top everyone craves.
  • They taste like restaurant poppers, but you know exactly what went into every bite.
02 -
  • Remove all the seeds and membranes if you want mild poppers; leave a few seeds for heat lovers.
  • Softening the cream cheese is non-negotiable, or you will wrestle with lumps and uneven filling.
  • Don't skip preheating the air fryer, or the breadcrumbs may turn pale and soft instead of crisp.
03 -
  • Line the air fryer basket with parchment if any filling spills, making cleanup a breeze.
  • If you love extra crunch, toast the breadcrumbs in a dry pan for a minute before mixing with oil.
  • Taste the filling before stuffing so you can adjust the garlic, salt, or chives to your liking.
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