Crispy Air Fryer Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers Recipe

Introduction

These Crispy Air Fryer Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers are a perfect blend of spicy, creamy, and smoky flavors. Quick to prepare and cooked to golden perfection in the air fryer, they make an irresistible appetizer for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 12 medium fresh jalapenos, washed and halved lengthwise
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 12 slices thin-cut bacon
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Step 1: Slice each jalapeno in half lengthwise and carefully scoop out the seeds and membranes to reduce heat and create a cavity for filling.
2. Step 2: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and well blended.
3. Step 3: Fill each jalapeno half generously with the cheese mixture using a spoon or small scoop.
4. Step 4: Wrap one slice of bacon snugly around each stuffed jalapeno half, overlapping slightly to secure it in place.
5. Step 5: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
6. Step 6: Arrange the bacon-wrapped jalapenos in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they do not touch.
7. Step 7: Cook for about 7 minutes, then carefully flip each popper using tongs and cook for another 5-8 minutes until the bacon is crispy and the cheese is bubbly.
8. Step 8: Check for doneness; the bacon should be golden and crisp, and the jalapenos tender but still holding their shape.
9. Step 9: Let the poppers rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the filling to set slightly.

Tips & Variations

• For milder poppers, remove all seeds and membranes from the jalapenos to reduce heat further.
• Try adding chopped cooked bacon or green onions to the cheese filling for extra texture and flavor.
• If you don’t have an air fryer, these can be baked in a 400°F oven on a wire rack for about 20 minutes, turning halfway through.
• Use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a spicier twist.

Storage

Store leftover poppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes to regain crispiness, or warm them in an oven until heated through.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these jalapeno poppers ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare and stuff the jalapenos up to 24 hours in advance. Keep them refrigerated and wrap with bacon just before air frying for optimal crispness.

What if I don’t have an air fryer?

You can bake the poppers in a conventional oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, turning them halfway to crisp up the bacon evenly.

Crispy Air Fryer Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 69 reviews

These Crispy Air Fryer Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers are the perfect appetizer or snack, combining spicy jalapenos stuffed with a creamy blend of cream cheese and cheddar, all wrapped in crispy bacon. Ready in just 30 minutes, they come out perfectly crispy and cheesy using an air fryer, making them a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

• Author: Dylan
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Air Frying
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

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Jalapenos

• 12 medium fresh jalapenos, washed and halved lengthwise

Cheese Filling

• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Bacon

• 12 slices thin-cut bacon

Instructions

1. Prepare the Jalapenos: Slice each jalapeno in half lengthwise and carefully scoop out the seeds and membranes to reduce heat and create space for the filling.
2. Make the Cheese Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Mix thoroughly until smooth and evenly blended.
3. Stuff the Jalapenos: Generously fill each jalapeno half with the prepared cheese mixture using a spoon or small scoop, ensuring even distribution.
4. Wrap with Bacon: Wrap one slice of thin-cut bacon tightly around each stuffed jalapeno half, slightly overlapping the edges to secure the bacon in place.
5. Preheat the Air Fryer: Set the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and allow it to preheat for a few minutes to ensure optimal cooking temperature.
6. Arrange in Air Fryer Basket: Place the bacon-wrapped jalapenos in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they do not touch to allow even air circulation and crisping.
7. Cook the Jalapeno Poppers: Air fry for approximately 7 minutes, then carefully flip each popper using tongs to ensure even cooking. Continue air frying for an additional 5 to 8 minutes until the bacon is crispy and the cheese is bubbling.
8. Check for Doneness: Confirm that the bacon is golden brown and crisp, and the jalapenos are tender but still holding their shape to prevent sogginess.
9. Rest and Serve: Remove the poppers from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes before serving to let the cheese set slightly for easier handling.

Notes

• Wearing gloves while handling jalapenos is recommended to avoid skin irritation from the capsaicin.
• For extra smoky flavor, do not omit the smoked paprika.
• If you prefer milder poppers, ensure you remove all seeds and membranes from the jalapenos.
• You can substitute bacon with turkey bacon for a lower-fat option, though cooking time may vary slightly.
• Consume immediately for best texture, as the bacon tends to lose crispness upon standing.

Keywords: bacon-wrapped jalapeno poppers, air fryer jalapeno poppers, crispy jalapeno poppers, bacon appetizers, spicy snacks