Looking for a fun and spicy snack? These crispy air fryer jalapeño poppers are the perfect solution. They’re packed with flavor and have the right amount of heat to keep things exciting. Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving something delicious for movie night, these poppers will be a hit.
Imagine biting into a crunchy exterior that gives way to a creamy, cheesy filling. That’s what you’ll experience with these jalapeño poppers. The best part? You can make them healthier by using an air fryer, cutting down on oil without sacrificing taste.
This recipe is super easy to follow, making it ideal for both seasoned cooks and kitchen novices. Get ready to impress your friends and family with a delightful appetizer that’s sure to bring smiles!
Deliciously Spicy Snack
Jalapeño poppers are a tantalizing treat that brings a burst of flavor to any gathering. These air fryer versions combine the zesty heat of jalapeños with a rich, creamy cheese filling, making them a crowd-pleaser.
Each popper is crafted to deliver a satisfying crunch followed by a smooth, cheesy interior. This delightful combination is perfect for parties, game days, or simply when you’re craving a tasty snack at home.
Ingredients for Success
The key to creating the perfect jalapeño poppers lies in the quality of the ingredients. Fresh jalapeños provide the signature heat, while a mix of cream cheese and sharp cheddar offers a creamy texture that complements the spice beautifully.
Adding spices like garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika enhances the flavor profile, ensuring that every bite is a treat. Topping them off with crispy breadcrumbs guarantees a satisfying crunch, bringing together all the elements for an irresistible appetizer.
Preparing Your Poppers
Preparation is straightforward, making these poppers accessible for anyone looking to impress. Start by carefully halving the jalapeños and removing the seeds, which can help control the heat level.
Next, blend the cream cheese and cheddar with garlic, onion, and spices until smooth. This filling is what gives the poppers their creamy goodness. Spoon the mixture into each jalapeño half, ensuring they are generously stuffed for maximum flavor.
Crisping to Perfection
The air fryer is a game changer for these poppers, allowing them to achieve that golden-brown crunch without excessive oil. After filling the jalapeños, sprinkle a breadcrumb coating and give them a light spray of olive oil to help them crisp up beautifully.
Cooking in the air fryer not only shortens the time needed for preparation but also keeps the poppers lighter and healthier, making them an ideal snack choice for any occasion.
Serving Suggestions
Once they are perfectly cooked, let them cool slightly before serving. These poppers are best enjoyed warm, paired with a side of ranch dipping sauce to balance the heat with a creamy coolness.
Garnishing with fresh cilantro adds a touch of color and freshness, making for an appealing presentation. Whether served at a gathering or enjoyed during a cozy evening, these jalapeño poppers are sure to be a hit.
Perfect for Any Occasion
These air fryer jalapeño poppers excel as a starter or snack, easily fitting into various occasions. Their unique combination of flavors and textures makes them versatile for casual get-togethers, game day, or even as a quick appetizer for dinner parties.
With a preparation time of just 15 minutes and a cooking time of 12 minutes, it’s easy to whip up a batch whenever the craving strikes. Gather your friends and family together to enjoy this delightful treat!
Easy and Spicy Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers
These air fryer jalapeño poppers are a delicious combination of spicy jalapeños, creamy cheese, and crispy breadcrumbs. Each bite delivers a satisfying crunch paired with a creamy texture, making them irresistible for party snacks or game day treats.
Ingredients
- 12 fresh jalapeños, halved and seeded
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil spray
Instructions
- Prep the Jalapeños: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Halve the jalapeños lengthwise and remove the seeds for less heat.
- Make the Filling: In a bowl, combine cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Fill the Jalapeños: Spoon the cheese mixture into each jalapeño half, pressing it down slightly to fill completely.
- Coat with Breadcrumbs: Sprinkle breadcrumbs over the cheese-filled jalapeños, pressing lightly to adhere. Lightly spray with olive oil to help them crisp up.
- Air Fry: Place the jalapeño poppers in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the poppers are golden brown and the cheese is bubbly. You may need to work in batches depending on your air fryer size.
- Serve: Allow them to cool for a minute before serving. Enjoy them warm with your favorite dipping sauce!
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 220kcal
- Fat: 16g
- Protein: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 12g