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Crispy Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers are the ultimate spicy and cheesy snack.
These bite-sized treats are filled with a creamy, flavorful stuffing and have the perfect balance of heat from fresh jalapeños.
Traditionally, jalapeño poppers are deep-fried, but with the air fryer, you can achieve the same crispiness without all the added oil.
This method makes the poppers lighter, yet just as satisfying.
Whether you’re preparing them for a game day snack, a party appetizer, or a quick indulgence, these air fryer jalapeño poppers will never disappoint.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To create these irresistible poppers, you’ll need a handful of simple ingredients.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its easy preparation and the delightful combination of flavors.
Fresh Jalapeños
Start with fresh, firm jalapeños. Look for peppers that are bright green with no signs of soft spots.
You will need around 10-12 medium-sized jalapeños for this recipe.
If you prefer a milder heat, consider removing more of the seeds and membranes, as this part contains the most heat.
For extra spice, you can leave some of the seeds intact.
Cream Cheese Filling
The star of the popper is the creamy filling. You’ll need:
- Cream Cheese – A block of softened cream cheese forms the base of the stuffing, giving it that rich and smooth texture.
- Shredded Cheese – Cheddar or a combination of cheddar and mozzarella adds flavor and meltiness to the filling.
- Garlic Powder – For a savory, aromatic touch that complements the creaminess.
- Onion Powder – Adds a subtle sweetness and depth to the filling.
- Cilantro (optional) – A handful of chopped fresh cilantro for a burst of freshness and color.
Breading and Coating
To achieve that crispy golden crust, you’ll need the following ingredients for the breading:
- Eggs – To help the breadcrumbs stick to the jalapeños.
- Breadcrumbs – A mixture of regular breadcrumbs and panko works best for a crunchy, satisfying texture.
- Seasonings – A pinch of salt, pepper, and paprika for a little extra flavor and color.
How to Make Crispy Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers
Making these crispy air fryer jalapeño poppers is incredibly easy and quick. Follow these simple steps to achieve perfect, golden poppers every time.
Step 1: Prepare the Jalapeños
Start by washing the jalapeños thoroughly. Slice each pepper in half lengthwise and carefully remove the seeds and membranes.
You can use a spoon to scrape them out, which helps keep the flesh intact.
Be sure to wear gloves while handling the peppers to avoid getting the oils on your skin, which can irritate.
Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Filling
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and cilantro.
Stir everything together until the mixture is smooth and well-blended.
This creamy filling will not only add a rich texture to the poppers but also balance out the spiciness of the jalapeños.
Step 3: Stuff the Jalapeños
Spoon a generous amount of the cream cheese mixture into each jalapeño half.
Use the back of the spoon to gently pack the filling in so that it stays in place while cooking.
Be sure not to overstuff, as it might cause the filling to spill out during cooking.
Step 4: Coat the Poppers
Set up a breading station by beating eggs in one shallow dish and placing the breadcrumbs in another.
Dip each stuffed jalapeño into the beaten eggs first, coating it evenly.
Then roll the jalapeño in the breadcrumbs, making sure it’s fully covered. Repeat for each pepper, ensuring a crisp layer on the outside.
Step 5: Air Frying
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the stuffed and breaded jalapeños in the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving space between each popper.
Air fry for about 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even crisping.
The poppers should be golden brown and crispy on the outside, with the creamy filling melted inside.
Tips for the Perfect Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers
Achieving the perfect crispy air fryer jalapeño poppers requires a little know-how.
Here are some key tips to ensure your poppers turn out amazing every time.
Adjusting Spice Levels
One of the best things about jalapeño poppers is the flexibility in spice levels.
If you love a fiery kick, feel free to leave the seeds and membranes in the peppers.
For a milder version, remove most of the seeds and scrape out the membranes carefully.
You can also experiment with using a combination of milder peppers, such as banana peppers or poblano peppers, for a less spicy variation.
How to Keep the Coating Crispy
To ensure your coating stays crispy, try not to overcrowd the air fryer basket.
Give each popper enough space for the hot air to circulate around it, which will help achieve an even crispness.
Additionally, lightly spraying the poppers with oil before cooking helps to enhance the golden, crunchy texture.
Avoid using too much oil, as it can lead to sogginess.
Substitutions and Variations
While the classic cream cheese filling is a favorite, you can easily customize it based on your preferences.
For a richer flavor, try adding cooked bacon bits or sausage to the filling.
You can also switch up the cheeses—cream cheese and cheddar work wonderfully, but a mix of mozzarella and parmesan can add a deliciously different twist.
For a healthier version, you can use Greek yogurt in place of the cream cheese for a lighter filling.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
If you happen to have leftover jalapeño poppers, don’t worry—they make for a tasty snack later.
Here’s how to store and reheat them to maintain their crispy texture.
Storing the Poppers
Let the poppers cool completely before storing them. Place them in an airtight container, with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
You can store them in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep them fresh for a longer period, you can freeze the poppers before air frying them.
Simply place the stuffed, breaded jalapeños on a baking sheet in a single layer, freeze until solid, and then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating Tips
The best way to reheat jalapeño poppers and retain their crispiness is to use the air fryer.
Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and place the leftover poppers in the basket in a single layer.
Air fry for 3-5 minutes, checking halfway to ensure they heat through evenly.
You’ll get that same crispy exterior as when they were first made. Alternatively, you can reheat them in the oven at 375°F for about 10 minutes, though they may not be as crispy as when using the air fryer.
Avoid microwaving, as it can make the coating soggy.
With these tips, your jalapeño poppers will remain just as delicious, whether you’re enjoying them fresh or as leftovers.
Conclusion
Crispy Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers are a simple yet delicious snack that perfectly combines heat, creaminess, and crunch.
The air fryer makes the preparation quick and easy, offering a healthier alternative to deep frying without compromising on flavor or texture.
Whether you’re preparing them for a party, game day, or a casual treat, these poppers are sure to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.
The versatility in spice levels and fillings allows you to customize them to suit any taste, making them a go-to recipe for any occasion.
Give them a try—you’ll find that they’re impossible to resist!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make these poppers ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the jalapeño poppers up to the breading stage and store them in the fridge for a few hours before cooking.
For even longer storage, freeze the stuffed and breaded poppers for up to 2-3 months.
Just air fry them straight from the freezer for a few extra minutes.
2. Are these poppers gluten-free?
Yes, you can easily make these gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Just be sure to check the other ingredients, like the cream cheese and shredded cheese, to ensure they are gluten-free as well.
3. How can I make these poppers spicier?
If you prefer extra heat, you can leave more of the seeds and membranes in the jalapeños.
Alternatively, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the cream cheese filling for an extra spicy kick.
4. Can I make these poppers without cheese?
Yes, you can create a dairy-free version by using vegan cream cheese and omitting the shredded cheese.
You could also substitute the cheese with a mixture of mashed avocado and herbs for a creamy alternative.
5. How do I keep the filling from spilling out during cooking?
Make sure to tightly pack the cream cheese filling into each jalapeño half.
The egg wash and breadcrumbs will help keep the filling in place during air frying.
If the filling does spill, try pressing it back into the pepper after the first few minutes of cooking.
Crispy Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers
Equipment
- Air Fryer – 1 unit
- Shallow Dish (for egg wash) – 1 unit
- Shallow Dish (for breadcrumbs) – 1 unit
- Mixing Bowl (1 unit)
- Spoon (for stuffing) – 1 unit
- Knife & Cutting Board – 1 unit
Ingredients
- Jalapeños – 6 large
- Cream Cheese – 8 oz 1 package, softened
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese – 1/2 cup
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese – 1/2 cup
- Garlic Powder – 1/2 tsp
- Onion Powder – 1/4 tsp
- Fresh Cilantro – 2 tbsp optional
- Eggs – 2 beaten
- Breadcrumbs – 1 cup regular or panko
- Paprika – 1/2 tsp
- Salt – 1/4 tsp
- Black Pepper – 1/4 tsp
- Cooking Spray or Olive Oil – for spraying
Instructions
- Prepare the Jalapeños: Wash the jalapeños thoroughly. Cut each one in half lengthwise, then remove the seeds and membranes (you can wear gloves to avoid irritation from the oils).
- Make the Cream Cheese Filling: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, garlic powder, onion powder, and chopped cilantro (if using). Stir until smooth and well mixed.
- Stuff the Jalapeños: Spoon the cream cheese mixture into each jalapeño half, packing the filling in tightly.
- Bread the Poppers: Set up a breading station: In one shallow dish, beat the eggs. In another, combine breadcrumbs, paprika, salt, and pepper. Dip each stuffed jalapeño into the egg wash, ensuring it’s coated, then roll it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to make sure the coating sticks.
- Air Fry the Poppers: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the stuffed and breaded jalapeños in the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving space between each one. Lightly spray the poppers with cooking spray or drizzle with a little olive oil for an extra crispy finish. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Let the poppers cool slightly before serving. Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch, spicy mayo, or guacamole.
Notes
- Spice Level: For milder poppers, remove all seeds and membranes. For extra spice, leave some seeds in or add a bit of chili powder or cayenne pepper to the cream cheese filling.
- Make-Ahead Option: You can stuff and bread the jalapeños up to 2 hours in advance, keeping them covered in the fridge until you’re ready to air fry. You can also freeze the stuffed and breaded poppers for up to 3 months. When ready, cook them directly from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.
- Alternative Fillings: Feel free to mix in other ingredients like cooked bacon bits, sausage, or even avocado to customize the filling to your liking.
- Air Fryer Tips: If your air fryer is smaller, you may need to cook the poppers in batches to avoid overcrowding and ensure they get crispy all around.
