Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers (Printable Version)

Crispy jalapeños stuffed with creamy cheese, air-fried golden in just 25 minutes for the perfect appetizer.

# What You Need:

→ 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

# Steps:

01 - Preheat 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 mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, cheddar cheese, chives, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Mix until smooth and fully incorporated.
04 - Fill each jalapeño half with the cheese mixture, mounding slightly for optimal texture.
05 - In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with olive oil until evenly combined. Sprinkle or press the breadcrumb mixture onto the tops of each filled jalapeño.
06 - Arrange the poppers in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Work in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.
07 - Air fry for 8 to 10 minutes until the tops are golden brown and the jalapeños are tender.
08 - If desired, sprinkle with crumbled bacon immediately after cooking. Serve warm with ranch or sour cream dip.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • They come together faster than you can set the table, and the air fryer keeps your kitchen cool and your hands free.
  • The creamy filling tames the heat just enough to make you reach for another, then another, until the plate is empty.
02 -
  • Wear gloves when handling jalapeños or wash your hands immediately; I once rubbed my eye an hour later and learned that lesson the hard way.
  • Don't overcrowd the basket or the poppers will steam instead of crisp, leaving the tops pale and the bottoms soggy.
03 -
  • Toss the breadcrumbs with the olive oil in a small bowl before sprinkling; it distributes the fat evenly and prevents dry, pale spots.
  • If your air fryer runs hot, check the poppers at eight minutes to avoid burning the tops while the peppers are still firm.
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