Looking for a fun, flavor-packed appetizer that’s equal parts spicy, cheesy, and addictive? These air fryer jalapeño poppers might just be your new go-to party snack or your favorite excuse to turn on the air fryer any night of the week.
What makes this recipe a total win? They come together in 30 minutes, with no deep-frying required. Every popper is loaded with bacon, cream cheese, and cheddar goodness, and topped with a golden panko crunch that gives them an irresistible texture. Once you make them, don’t be surprised if they disappear in minutes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients Needed for Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers
- 8–10 jalapeños
- 4 tbsp bacon crumbles
- 4 tbsp cream cheese
- 4 tbsp shredded cheddar
- 2 tbsp mayo
- 4 tbsp panko
- 1/3 tsp salt
- 1/3 tsp granulated garlic
Step-by-Step Instructions With Pictures
Cut jalapenos in half and remove the seeds.
Combine all filling ingredients except panko in a bowl.
Mix thoroughly.
Fill each jalapeno half with cheese filling.
Preheat the air fryer to 360°F. Roll panko on top of jalapenos. Place halves in an air fryer basket in a single layer.
Air fry for 7 minutes. If needed, increase air frying time by 1-2 minutes.
Expert Tips for the Best Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers
- Use Gloves When Prepping: Jalapeños can leave a lasting burn on your hands. Wearing gloves is the easiest way to avoid the sting.
- Remove All Seeds: If you want a milder popper, scrape out every bit of the seeds and membrane.
- Customize the Cheese: Not a fan of cheddar? Swap in mozzarella, pepper jack, or even a little blue cheese for a bolder twist.
- Go Vegetarian: Skip the bacon and add chopped olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or caramelized onions for a meatless option.
- Add Heat: Like it spicier? Leave in a few seeds or add hot sauce to the filling for an extra kick.
- Serve Immediately: These jalapeño poppers are best served hot while the filling is still very soft.
Serving and Presentation Ideas
These poppers are fun, flavorful, and versatile. Here are some ways to serve them up:
- With Ranch or Blue Cheese Dip: A cooling dip balances the heat beautifully.
- Garnished with Chopped Parsley or Chives: A pop of green makes them even more appetizing.
- On a Platter with Other Finger Foods: Think sliders, wings, and chips for a party spread.
- With Lime Wedges on the Side: A quick squeeze adds zing and cuts through the richness.
- As a Game Day Treat: Trust me, these will be the first to go during halftime.
Easy Recipe Variations
Want to switch things up? Here are a few fun variations to try:
- Keto Jalapeño Poppers: Ditch the panko for crushed pork rinds or skip the topping entirely.
- Wrapped in Bacon: Wrap each popper with a strip of bacon before air frying. Just cook a few extra minutes until crispy.
- Sweet & Spicy: Add a tiny drizzle of honey before serving to balance the spice with a hint of sweetness.
- Loaded Poppers: Top with extra cheese and bake for a minute longer to get that gooey, melty top.
- Mini Bell Pepper Version: If you want zero spice, use small sweet peppers instead!
Storage and Reheating
Store: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Pop them back in the air fryer for 2–3 minutes at 350°F until warmed through. You can also use a toaster oven or oven, but avoid microwaving if you want to keep that crisp.
One Last Thing
These air fryer jalapeño poppers are crunchy, cheesy, and just spicy enough to keep you coming back for more. Whether you’re making them for a party, date night, or an afternoon snack, they’re ridiculously easy and guaranteed to impress. So grab your air fryer and your favorite cheese—it’s popper time!
Your Turn
If you make these air fryer jalapeño poppers, please take a moment to let me know how you liked them by leaving a rating and a comment below on the recipe card. Follow me on Pinterest and Facebook for more easy and tasty recipes!
More Recipes to Try
Easy Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers That Bring the Heat and Crunch
Ingredients
- 8-10 jalapeños
- 4 tbsp bacon crumbles
- 4 tbsp cream cheese
- 2 tbsp mayo
- 4 tbsp panko
- 1/3 tsp salt
- 1/3 tsp granulated garlic
Instructions
- Cut jalapenos in half and remove seeds. It is best to wear latex gloves for this.8-10 jalapeños
- Combine all filling ingredients except panko in a bowl.4 tbsp bacon crumbles, 2 tbsp mayo, 1/3 tsp salt, 1/3 tsp granulated garlic, 4 tbsp cream cheese
- Mix thoroughly.
- Fill each jalapeno half with cheese filling.
- Preheat the air fryer to 360° F. Roll panko on top of jalapenos. Place halves in an air fryer basket in a single layer.4 tbsp panko
- Air fry for 7 minutes. If needed, increase air frying time by 1-2 minutes.
Notes
-
- Use Gloves When Prepping: Jalapeños can leave a lasting burn on your hands. Wearing gloves is the easiest way to avoid the sting.
-
- Remove All Seeds: If you want a milder popper, scrape out every bit of the seeds and membrane.
-
- Customize the Cheese: Not a fan of cheddar? Swap in mozzarella, pepper jack, or even a little blue cheese for a bolder twist.
-
- Go Vegetarian: Skip the bacon and add chopped olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or caramelized onions for a meatless option.
- Add Heat: Like it spicier? Leave in a few seeds or add hot sauce to the filling for an extra kick.
- Serve Immediately: These jalapeño poppers are best served hot while the filling is still very soft.
Nutrition
Tamara Tsaturyan is the owner and writer of Thriving In Parenting, a website focused on providing simple tips for busy parents — easy and healthy recipes, home decor and organization ideas and all things P A R E N T I N G.
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