I have always loved the thrill of spicy, cheesy bites, and nothing hits the spot quite like a jalapeño popper. The first time I made them in my air fryer, I was blown away by how crispy the bacon turned while keeping the cheese perfectly gooey inside. It’s a combination of heat, creaminess, and smokiness that makes these poppers irresistible, whether you’re snacking at home or serving guests at a casual gathering.
What I enjoy most about this recipe is how quick and foolproof it is. The air fryer does all the hard work for you—no deep frying, no oil splashes, just perfectly cooked, golden-brown jalapeño poppers. Plus, wrapping them in bacon adds that extra layer of flavor that takes them from tasty to downright addictive. Every bite feels like a little celebration in your mouth.
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Jalapeños: Fresh jalapeños are essential for this recipe. Look for firm, bright green peppers without soft spots. Their natural heat gives the poppers that signature spicy kick, while their size allows for easy stuffing with cheese.
Cream Cheese: Cream cheese brings a rich, creamy texture that balances the spiciness of the jalapeños. Full-fat cream cheese is ideal for maximum flavor and smooth melting.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar adds a sharp, tangy taste that complements the cream cheese perfectly. It also melts well, creating that irresistible cheesy stretch when you bite into the popper.
Bacon: Bacon is the star of the show when it comes to flavor. Thin-cut bacon works best for wrapping, crisping up beautifully in the air fryer while holding the filling inside the jalapeño.
Garlic Powder: Garlic powder gives a subtle depth of flavor that enhances the overall taste of the poppers without overpowering the jalapeño heat.
Paprika: Paprika adds a touch of smokiness and a hint of color, making the poppers look as good as they taste.
Salt and Pepper: These basic seasonings are essential to balance the flavors and bring out the natural tastes of each ingredient.
Ingredients List
- 10 fresh jalapeños
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 10 slices of thin-cut bacon
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How to Make Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers | Bacon-Wrapped & Crispy
Prepare the Jalapeños
Slice each jalapeño in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes using a small spoon. This reduces the heat slightly and makes room for the creamy filling.
Make the Cheese Filling
In a small bowl, mix cream cheese, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Stuff the Jalapeños
Spoon the cheese mixture evenly into each jalapeño half, filling them generously but leaving a little room at the top to prevent overflow.
Wrap with Bacon
Wrap each stuffed jalapeño with a slice of bacon, securing with a toothpick if necessary. Make sure the bacon covers the opening to keep the cheese from leaking out.
Air Fry the Poppers
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the bacon-wrapped jalapeños in a single layer, seam side down, and cook for 12–15 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and the cheese is bubbly.
Serve and Enjoy
Remove the toothpicks carefully, let the poppers cool for a minute, and serve immediately. They’re perfect as a party appetizer or a spicy snack.
Tips for Making this Recipe
- Choose fresh, firm jalapeños for the best texture and taste.
- Don’t overfill the peppers with cheese; it could spill during cooking.
- Cut the bacon in half if your jalapeños are small for easier wrapping.
- Check halfway through cooking to rotate if necessary for even crisping.
- Use toothpicks to secure bacon if it tends to unwrap.
- Let them cool slightly before serving to avoid hot cheese burns.
FAQs
Can I make these poppers ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare them and keep them in the fridge for a few hours before cooking. Just air fry when ready.
Can I make them spicier or milder?
Absolutely! Leave some seeds for more heat, or remove all seeds for a milder bite.
What if I don’t have an air fryer?
You can bake them in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes until the bacon is crispy.
Can I use other cheeses?
Yes! Pepper jack, mozzarella, or a mix of cheeses work well for different flavor profiles.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer or oven for best results.