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Crispy Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers Bacon Wrapped

air fryer jalapeño poppers bacon wrapped - featured image

These crispy air fryer jalapeño poppers wrapped in bacon combine smoky bacon, spicy jalapeños, and melty cheese for a quick and easy appetizer perfect for entertaining or snacking.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 medium-sized fresh jalapeños
  • 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup (100 g) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 12 slices thin-cut bacon
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • Optional: smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for extra smoky or spicy touch

Instructions

  1. Rinse 12 medium jalapeños and slice them in half lengthwise. Use a spoon to scrape out the seeds and membranes carefully to control heat level.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine 8 oz softened cream cheese, 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper. Stir until fully blended and creamy.
  3. Using a spoon or melon baller, fill each jalapeño half generously with the cheese mixture, making sure the filling is level but not overflowing.
  4. Take 12 thin-cut bacon slices and cut them in half if needed to fit each jalapeño half. Wrap each stuffed jalapeño with a bacon strip, slightly overlapping the ends. Secure with a toothpick if necessary.
  5. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3 minutes.
  6. Place the bacon-wrapped jalapeños in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between each for air circulation. Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until bacon is crispy and cheese is bubbly. Watch closely after 10 minutes to avoid burning.
  7. Remove poppers carefully with tongs and let them rest for 3-5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Preheat the air fryer for best crispiness. Use thin-cut bacon for quicker crisping. Cook in batches if your air fryer basket is small to avoid overcrowding. Flip poppers halfway through cooking. Let poppers rest after cooking to set the cheese. Avoid microwaving leftovers to keep bacon crispy.

Nutrition

Keywords: jalapeño poppers, air fryer, bacon wrapped, appetizer, spicy snack, easy recipe, party food