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Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers

Crispy Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers That Bring the Heat and the Hug


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  • Author: Amanda Hartwellen
  • Total Time: 22 minutes
  • Yield: 2024 poppers (10–12 jalapeños halved) 1x

Description

These Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers are spicy, creamy, and irresistibly crispy. Stuffed with a rich blend of cream cheese, cheddar, bacon, and green onions, then air fried to golden perfection, they’re the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer—perfect for game day, parties, or casual snacking.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened

  • ½ tsp coarse black pepper

  • ½ tsp garlic salt

  • 2 sliced green onions (about 3 tbsp green parts)

  • 1 cup finely grated medium cheddar cheese

  • ½ lb cooked, crumbled bacon

  • 1012 fresh jalapeño peppers

  • ¼ cup breadcrumbs (optional)


Instructions

  • In a medium bowl, mix cream cheese, pepper, garlic salt, green onions, cheddar, and half the bacon.

  • Slice jalapeños in half lengthwise. Remove seeds and membranes.

  • Fill each jalapeño half with the cream cheese mixture.

  • Sprinkle with breadcrumbs if desired.

  • Place in a single layer in air fryer basket. Lightly spray tops with cooking spray.

  • Air fry at 380°F for 5–7 minutes until golden and melty.

  • Let rest 1–2 minutes. Garnish with remaining bacon and green onions. Serve with ranch.

Notes

Use gloves when prepping jalapeños to avoid irritation.

Let cream cheese soften before mixing for a smoother filling.

Make ahead: prep and refrigerate up to 1 day in advance.

Swap cheese to vary flavor—try pepper jack or mozzarella.

Reheat leftovers in air fryer at 350°F for 3–5 minutes.

Freeze pre-filled poppers for longer storage and cook from frozen.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 7minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Air Fried
  • Cuisine: American