Air Fryer Jalapeno Poppers are the ultimate easy appetizer! If you love jalapeno poppers, you have to try this air fryer recipe! Ready to enjoy in less than 20 minutes, jalapenos are stuffed with cream and cheddar cheese and topped with bacon bits for one delicious appetizer.
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What’s in Air Fryer Jalapeno Poppers?
These jalapeno poppers are super easy to make, extra cheesy, and because they are cooked in the air fryer, they come out super juicy and flavorful.
- Cream Cheese: Makes the filling soft and creamy.
- Cheddar Cheese: We like sharp cheddar for its contrasting flavor.
- Bacon Bits: These are optional, but we definitely recommend them!
- Garlic Powder: Adds a bit of earthiness to the filling.
- Ground Paprika: Adds a touch of spice and color to the filling.
- Jalapeno Peppers: You’ll need 6 whole jalapeno peppers for this recipe.
Notes from the Test Kitchen
- Cut the jalapenos in half lengthways and remove the seeds with a spoon before stuffing them. This will reduce how spicy they are. You may want to wear gloves to do this if you have sensitive skin.
- If you like things crispy, add some panko breadcrumbs on top.
- If you don’t have an air fryer, you can also bake these in the oven. Place the stuffed jalapeno halves on a foil-lined baking tray and bake in the oven at 400°F for around 20 minutes, or until soft and the cheese has melted.
Variations on Jalapeno Poppers in the Air Fryer
Jalapeno Poppers have tons of variation– feel free to add anything you like to the filling! White cheddar, caramelized onions, or green onions would all be delicious!
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Air Fryer Jalapeno Poppers Recipe
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Ingredients
- 4 ounces cream cheese room temperature (½ brick)
- ½ cup freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup bacon bits optional
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon ground paprika
- 6 jalapeno peppers halved lengthwise, seeds and ribs removed
Recommended Equipment
Instructions
- Lightly grease the air fryer basket with olive oil spray and set it aside.
- In a large bowl, combine the cream cheese, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, and paprika. Stir in bacon bits if using.4 ounces cream cheese, ½ cup freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon ground paprika, ¼ cup bacon bits
- Divide the mixture between the jalapeños (about 1 tablespoon per jalapeño half, depending on their size).6 jalapeno peppers
- Place the peppers in the basket and cook at 375F for 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and gooey and the peppers are blistered on the outside.
- Serve immediately and enjoy! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
Last step! Don’t forget to show me a pic of what you made! Upload an image or tag me @thecookierookie on Instagram!
Becky’s tips
- Cut the jalapenos in half lengthways and remove the seeds with a spoon before stuffing them. You may want to wear gloves to do this if you have sensitive skin.
- If you like things crispy, add some panko breadcrumbs on top.
- Place the stuffed jalapeno halves on a foil-lined baking tray and bake in the oven at 400°F for 20 minutes if you don’t have an air fryer.
Nutrition Information
Serving Suggestions
Serve these tasty air fryer jalapeno poppers with ranch dressing, Buffalo sauce, or yum yum sauce for dipping. They’re the perfect game day finger food!
How to Make Air Fryer Jalapeno Poppers Step by Step
Make the Filling: Lightly grease the air fryer basket with olive oil spray and set it aside. In a large bowl, combine 4 ounces (½ brick) of cream cheese, ½ cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and ½ teaspoon of paprika. Stir in ¼ cup of bacon bits if using.
Cook the Jalapenos: Divide the mixture between the 6 halved jalapenos (about 1 tablespoon per jalapeno half, depending on their size). Place the peppers in the basket and cook at 375°F for 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and gooey and the peppers are blistered on the outside.
Serve the Jalapenos: Serve immediately and enjoy!
How to Store and Reheat
Store leftover air fryer jalapeno poppers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They can be reheated in the air fryer at 350°F for a couple of minutes to warm through.
How to Freeze
Freeze air fryer jalapeno poppers in a single layer on a lined baking sheet until solid, about 1-2 hours. Transfer to an airtight container or Ziplock bag for up to 3 months. Let thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Second time I’ve ever used my air fryer I know I got them close together but I think I did great thank you so much for this recipe I love it
That looks amazing, Peg!