Print

Cheesy Jalapeño Poppers in Air Fryer Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.5 from 52 reviews

These Irresistibly Cheesy Jalapeño Shortbread poppers are a perfect blend of creamy cheese, spicy jalapeños, and crispy topping made effortlessly in an air fryer. A delicious appetizer or snack with a spicy kick and satisfying crunch.

Ingredients

For the Poppers

  • 4 pieces fresh, firm Jalapeño Peppers
  • 8 oz Neufchâtel Cream Cheese (lower-fat option)
  • 1 cup Cheddar Cheese (can substitute with pepper jack for more kick)
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (fresh minced garlic can be used)

For the Topping

  • 1 cup Panko Bread Crumbs
  • 4 slices Bacon (optional, can substitute with turkey bacon)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) and allow it to preheat fully for even cooking of the jalapeño poppers.
  2. Prepare Jalapeños: Halve each jalapeño pepper lengthwise and carefully remove the seeds and membranes to reduce the heat while maintaining flavor. Set aside the halved peppers.
  3. Make Cheese Filling: In a bowl, combine the Neufchâtel cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, and garlic powder. Mix thoroughly until a creamy, uniform mixture forms.
  4. Fill Jalapeños: Spoon the cheese mixture generously into each jalapeño half, ensuring they are well-filled.
  5. Add Topping: Sprinkle panko bread crumbs evenly over the filled jalapeños. If using, crumble or finely chop bacon slices and sprinkle on top of the bread crumbs for added flavor and crunch.
  6. Arrange in Air Fryer: Place the stuffed and topped jalapeño halves in a single layer within the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking and browning.
  7. Air Fry: Cook the poppers in the preheated air fryer for 8-10 minutes until the breadcrumb topping is golden brown and crispy.
  8. Cool and Serve: Remove from the air fryer and allow the poppers to cool slightly for about 5 minutes so they firm up and can be safely enjoyed.

Notes

  • To reduce heat, be sure to deseed the jalapeños thoroughly.
  • For a spicier version, leave some seeds or use pepper jack cheese.
  • Fresh minced garlic can be used instead of garlic powder for stronger flavor.
  • Bacon is optional but adds a smoky, savory element; turkey bacon works as a lighter substitute.
  • Panko breadcrumbs create a crispier topping compared to regular bread crumbs.
  • If air fryer basket is small, cook in batches to avoid overcrowding for even cooking.