Crispy Air Fryer Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers
These crispy air fryer bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers are a quick and easy appetizer that balances heat, creaminess, and smoky crunch without the mess of deep frying.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
- Total Time: 37-40 minutes
- Yield: 24 poppers (12 jalapeños halved) 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 medium-sized fresh jalapeños
- 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup (about 120 g) shredded cheddar cheese
- 12 slices thin or regular cut bacon
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro or parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Wearing gloves, slice each jalapeño in half lengthwise and scoop out seeds and membranes.
- In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Spoon the cheese mixture into each jalapeño half, filling completely without overflow.
- Wrap each filled jalapeño half with one slice of bacon, securing with toothpicks if needed.
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Place the bacon-wrapped jalapeños in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between each.
- Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, watching closely after 12 minutes to avoid burning.
- Remove carefully and let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped cilantro or parsley if desired.
Notes
Use thin bacon for easier wrapping and crispier results. Preheat the air fryer for even cooking. Flip poppers halfway through cooking. Wear gloves when handling jalapeños to avoid skin irritation. For less heat, remove seeds and membranes. Bacon grease can be messy; line the air fryer basket with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 poppers
- Calories: 200
- Fat: 15
- Carbohydrates: 3
- Protein: 12
Keywords: jalapeño poppers, air fryer, bacon-wrapped, appetizer, spicy snack, easy recipe, party food