Looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that packs a punch? These bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers are your answer. They’re the perfect mix of spicy and savory, and the air fryer makes them crispy without all the grease. Trust me, once you pop one in your mouth, you’ll be hooked!
Imagine biting into a crispy exterior, revealing a creamy cheese filling mixed with the heat of jalapeños. And let’s not forget the smoky flavor of the bacon wrapping it all up. These poppers will elevate any gathering, whether it’s game day or a casual get-together with friends.
Air Fryer Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers
These jalapeño poppers bring a delightful combination of spice and creaminess that’s simply irresistible. The cream cheese and cheddar filling meld harmoniously with the heat of the jalapeños, creating a flavor explosion in every bite.
Wrapped in crispy bacon and cooked in an air fryer, they achieve that perfect crunch without excess grease. The cooking process ensures that the jalapeños retain their slight crispness while the cheese becomes melty and delicious.
Preparing the Ingredients
The first step to creating these poppers is selecting fresh jalapeños. Halving them and removing the seeds reduces the heat, allowing for a balanced flavor.
Next, the filling is crafted by blending softened cream cheese with shredded cheddar, garlic powder, and onion powder. This mixture is not only creamy but also packs a punch, enhancing the overall taste of the poppers. Seasoning with salt and pepper adds that finishing touch.
Wrapping and Cooking
Once the jalapeños are filled, each half is wrapped with a slice of bacon. This not only adds flavor but also helps to keep the filling intact during cooking. For a more secure wrap, a toothpick can be used to hold everything in place.
The air fryer is then preheated to 375°F (190°C). Placing the poppers in a single layer allows for even cooking, resulting in a beautifully crispy exterior. In just 10-12 minutes, the bacon becomes perfectly crisp, and the jalapeños tender.
Serving Suggestions
Once cooked, let the poppers cool slightly before serving. Their golden-brown color and the slight ooze of cheese make for an attractive presentation.
For dipping, a small bowl of ranch dressing complements the spicy and creamy flavors beautifully. The coolness of the ranch balances the heat from the jalapeños, providing an enjoyable contrast.
Nutrition Information
These poppers make a satisfying appetizer, with each serving containing about 180 calories. With 14g of fat and 7g of protein, they offer a good energy source for any gathering.
With only 2g of carbohydrates, they can fit into various dietary preferences, making them a versatile option for entertaining.
Why You’ll Love Them
These bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers are not just another appetizer; they are a crowd favorite. Their unique combination of flavors and textures ensures that they’ll be the highlight of any meal.
Whether you’re hosting a game day or a casual evening with friends, these poppers are sure to impress and satisfy. A plate of these beauties will have everyone coming back for more!
Air Fryer Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers
These jalapeño poppers are packed with cream cheese, wrapped in crispy bacon, and cooked to perfection in an air fryer. They strike a balance between spicy and creamy, making them a delightful treat that’s hard to resist.
Ingredients
- 12 fresh jalapeños, halved and seeded
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 12 slices bacon, cut in half
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: ranch dressing for dipping
Instructions
- Prepare the Jalapeños: Halve the jalapeños lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes for less heat.
- Make the Filling: In a bowl, combine the cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
- Stuff the Jalapeños: Fill each jalapeño half with the cheese mixture, pressing it in firmly.
- Wrap with Bacon: Take a half slice of bacon and wrap it around each stuffed jalapeño, securing it with a toothpick if necessary.
- Air Fry: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the bacon-wrapped jalapeños in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the jalapeños are tender.
- Serve: Remove from the air fryer and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy with ranch dressing on the side if desired.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 180kcal per serving
- Fat: 14g
- Protein: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 2g