Name: Air Fryer Jalapeno Poppers Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 18 min
Ingredients: 4 oz cream cheese (softened); ½ cup sharp cheddar cheese (shredded); 2 tbsp green onions (chopped); ½ tsp garlic powder; ¼ tsp salt; ⅛ tsp black pepper; 5 medium fresh jalapeños; ¼ cup Panko breadcrumbs; 1 tbsp butter (melted)

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Jalapeno poppers are the perfect blend of spicy, creamy, and crunchy, making them a hit at any gathering. Using an air fryer, you can achieve a deliciously crispy exterior without the excess oil from traditional frying methods. This recipe ensures a hassle-free cooking experience, allowing you to enjoy these tasty morsels with minimal effort.

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Ingredients and Equipment Needed

To make these delightful jalapeño poppers, gather the following ingredients: 4 oz of softened cream cheese, ½ cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 2 tablespoons of chopped green onions, ½ teaspoon of garlic powder, ¼ teaspoon of salt, ⅛ teaspoon of black pepper, 5 medium fresh jalapeños, ¼ cup of Panko breadcrumbs, and 1 tablespoon of melted butter. In addition to the ingredients, you’ll need an air fryer, mixing bowls, a small spoon, a knife, gloves for handling the jalapeños, and a small dish.

Step-by-Step Preparation Guide

Preparing the Jalapeños

When working with jalapeños, it’s essential to take safety precautions. Wearing gloves will protect your hands from the pepper’s oils, which can cause irritation. Begin by slicing each jalapeño in half lengthwise. Use a small spoon to carefully remove the seeds and membranes, creating hollow halves ready for stuffing.

Making the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Blend the ingredients thoroughly until you achieve a smooth, creamy mixture. This ensures that each bite of your poppers will be bursting with flavor.

Assembling the Poppers

With the jalapeños prepped and the filling ready, it’s time to assemble your poppers. Fill each jalapeño half with about 1 tablespoon of the cheese mixture, pressing it in gently to ensure it stays in place. Next, mix the Panko breadcrumbs with the melted butter in a separate bowl until the crumbs are evenly coated. Dip the filled side of each jalapeño into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere the crumbs to the cheese.

Cooking Instructions

Air Frying the Jalapeño Poppers

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F. Arrange the coated jalapeño halves in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not touching to allow for even cooking. Cook the poppers for approximately 5 to 8 minutes, checking periodically to prevent burning. The poppers are done when the peppers are tender, and the breadcrumb topping is golden brown and crispy.

Recipe Tips & Frequently Asked Questions

Tips for Adjusting the Spice Level

If you prefer milder poppers, remove all seeds and membranes from the jalapeños, as this is where most of the heat resides.
For spicier poppers, consider using larger jalapeños or leaving some seeds in the filling.

Substitutions and Variations

Experiment with different cheeses, such as mozzarella or pepper jack, to change up the flavor profile.
Add cooked bacon bits to the filling for an extra layer of savory goodness.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftover poppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for a few minutes until warmed through and crispy.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match your favorite cheeses to create unique flavor combinations.

How do I make these poppers gluten-free?

Use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of Panko to accommodate gluten-free dietary needs.

Can I prepare these ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the poppers ahead of time and refrigerate them until you’re ready to air fry.

What can I do if I don’t have an air fryer?

You can bake the poppers in a conventional oven at 400°F for about 15-20 minutes until crispy and golden.

What to Serve With This Recipe

Suggested Dipping Sauces

Ranch dressing or blue cheese dip complement the spicy poppers wonderfully.
A zesty cilantro-lime dip adds a refreshing twist.

Side Dishes that Pair Well

Serve with a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal.
Pair with crispy chicken wings for an indulgent appetizer spread.

Air fryer jalapeno poppers are a quick and easy appetizer that delivers on both flavor and texture. Whether you’re serving them at a party or enjoying them as a snack, these poppers are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the perfect combination of spice, creaminess, and crunch in every bite!

Ingredients

4 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
2 tbsp green onions, chopped
½ tsp garlic powder
¼ tsp salt
⅛ tsp black pepper
5 medium fresh jalapeños
¼ cup Panko breadcrumbs
1 tbsp butter, melted

Instructions

Take necessary precautions, such as wearing gloves, when handling the jalapeños. Slice each jalapeño in half lengthwise, then use a small spoon to remove the seeds and membranes, creating hollow halves. Set them aside.

In a mixing bowl, thoroughly combine the softened cream cheese, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until you have a smooth mixture. Fill each jalapeño half with about 1 tablespoon of the cheese mixture, ensuring even distribution.

In a separate bowl, mix the Panko breadcrumbs with the melted butter until the crumbs are uniformly coated. Dip the filled side of each jalapeño into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere the crumbs to the cheese.

Arrange the coated jalapeño halves in a single layer in your air fryer basket. Cook at 375°F for approximately 5 to 8 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the breadcrumb topping is golden brown. Enjoy your crispy, cheesy jalapeño poppers!