Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers with Cream Cheese

Name: Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers with Cream Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 fresh jalapeños; 8 oz cream cheese (softened); 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup cooked bacon bits; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp smoked paprika

Published: May 10, 2025

by Lionel Ramon

Why You'll Love This Recipe

These Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers are simple to prepare, ensuring no culinary disasters
Their creamy, cheesy filling perfectly balances the spicy jalapeños for an irresistible flavor combination
With their eye-catching presentation, they make any gathering festive
Plus, they’re versatile enough for various occasions like parties or casual movie nights

One memorable evening was when I served these poppers at a barbecue; my friends couldn’t stop raving about them! keto-friendly burger buns.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Fresh Jalapeños: Choose firm jalapeños for maximum crunch and flavor; larger ones work better for stuffing.
Cream Cheese: Use full-fat cream cheese for a rich and creamy filling that spreads easily. For more inspiration, check out this Caprese Stuffed Avocado recipe.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: A sharp cheddar adds depth to the flavor profile; feel free to mix in other cheeses too.
Bacon Bits: Cooked bacon crumbles add delightful smokiness and crunch; turkey bacon can be used as an alternative.
Garlic Powder: A sprinkle of garlic powder enhances the overall flavor without overwhelming the dish.
Paprika: Smoked paprika brings a subtle smokiness that’s simply irresistible; regular paprika works too if you’re in a pinch.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) while you prepare your poppers. This ensures they cook evenly and come out perfectly crispy. For more inspiration, check out this Fluffy Air Fryer Churro Bites recipe.

Prepare the Jalapeños: Cut each jalapeño in half lengthwise and remove seeds for less heat if desired. Be careful not to touch your face afterward; trust me on this one!

Mix the Filling: In a bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, bacon bits, garlic powder, and paprika until everything is well incorporated. The mixture should be creamy and inviting!

Stuff the Jalapeños: Generously fill each jalapeño half with the cheesy mixture using a spoon or piping bag for neatness. Don’t be shy—overstuffing is encouraged!

Air Fry Those Poppers!: Arrange stuffed jalapeños in a single layer in your preheated air fryer basket. Cook for about 10-12 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy.

Serve and Enjoy!: Allow them to cool slightly before serving—they’ll be volcanic hot! Pair these poppers with ranch dressing or guacamole for an extra layer of flavor.

Now that you have this delightful recipe under your belt, get ready to impress everyone around you with these Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers with Cream Cheese! fresh mango avocado salsa.

You Must Know

Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers with Cream Cheese are not just a snack; they’re a party favorite
The crispy texture and creamy filling create a delightful explosion of flavors
Perfect for game day or casual gatherings, they’ll keep your guests coming back for more

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To achieve that perfect crunch, preheat your air fryer for a few minutes before you pop in those jalapeño poppers. This ensures even cooking and enhances that crispy exterior that we all crave.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to experiment with fillings! Try adding bacon bits, cheddar cheese, or even some spicy sausage to kick things up a notch. Customization can make your poppers uniquely yours.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftover jalapeño poppers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply use the air fryer at 350°F for about five minutes for that fresh-out-of-the-fryer taste.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For the best results, choose fresh jalapeños with smooth skins; avoid wrinkled ones as they may be old
Always wear gloves when handling jalapeños to prevent any unwanted spice on your hands
Lastly, adjust cream cheese levels based on desired richness; more is merrier!

Sometimes I wonder how many times I’ve made these poppers for friends who always ask me to whip them up again! Their delighted faces say it all—these little bites of joy never disappoint!

FAQ

Can I use other types of peppers?

Yes, you can substitute with bell peppers for milder flavor or poblano peppers for a smoky taste.

How do I know when they’re done?

Air fryer jalapeño poppers are done when golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.

Can I make them ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare them ahead and store them in the fridge until ready to cook.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card