🧀 Ingredients for Classic Jalapeño Poppers
Here’s what you’ll need for the basic recipe. Feel free to tweak the filling to match your taste.
Main Ingredients:
- 10 fresh jalapeño peppers (medium to large)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Add-ins:
- 4 strips cooked bacon, crumbled (or turkey bacon)
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions or chives
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped cilantro or parsley
- ¼ cup panko or crushed pork rinds (for topping)
- Cooking spray or oil mist
🔪 How to Prepare Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers
Step 1: Prepare the Jalapeños
- Cut each jalapeño in half lengthwise.
- Scoop out the seeds and white membranes with a spoon (wear gloves to avoid burning your hands!).
- Set the cleaned halves aside on a tray.
Step 2: Make the Cheese Filling
In a bowl, mix together:
- Softened cream cheese
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper
- Optional: stir in crumbled bacon, green onions, or herbs
Blend until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Step 3: Fill the Peppers
- Spoon the cheese mixture into each jalapeño half, filling generously.
- Smooth out the tops with the back of the spoon.
- Optional: Sprinkle with panko or crushed pork rinds for extra crunch.
Step 4: Air Fry the Poppers
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 2–3 minutes.
- Lightly spray the basket with oil spray.
- Arrange poppers in a single layer (work in batches if needed).
- Air fry for 8–10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the tops are golden brown.
Step 5: Serve
Let cool for a couple minutes before serving. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce or as-is!
🧊 Make-Ahead & Freezing Tips
Make Ahead:
- Assemble the poppers and store them uncooked in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- When ready to serve, pop them straight into the air fryer!
Freezing Instructions:
- Freeze fully assembled, uncooked jalapeño poppers on a baking sheet for 1 hour.
- Transfer to a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 2 months.
- Air fry from frozen at 380°F for 12–15 minutes.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Jalapeño poppers are incredibly versatile and go with just about any spread. Here are a few fun ways to serve them:
Appetizer Platter:
- Arrange with mini meatballs, stuffed mushrooms, and deviled eggs for a savory spread.
Game Day Snack Board:
- Serve alongside sliders, wings, and nachos.
Dipping Sauces:
- Ranch dressing
- Sour cream
- Chipotle mayo
- Honey mustard
- Sriracha aioli
🧂 Variations to Try
Once you’ve mastered the classic version, try one of these fun variations:
🥓 Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers
- Wrap each filled jalapeño half with half a slice of bacon.
- Secure with a toothpick and air fry until bacon is crisp (10–12 minutes at 375°F).
🥑 Guacamole-Stuffed Poppers
- Instead of cheese, fill with seasoned guacamole after air frying the empty jalapeño shells.
🐔 Buffalo Chicken Poppers
- Mix shredded cooked chicken with buffalo sauce and cream cheese for a spicy twist.
🧀 Blue Cheese + Walnut
- Replace cheddar with blue cheese and top with crushed toasted walnuts.
🐟 Tuna Melt Poppers
- Mix canned tuna, mayo, and cheddar and stuff inside for a protein-rich popper.
💡 Expert Tips for the Best Poppers
- Choose larger jalapeños: Easier to stuff and hold more filling.
- Wear gloves: Avoid pepper burns when handling raw jalapeños.
- Don’t overfill: Cheese may bubble out in the air fryer.
- Line the basket: Use parchment liners or foil for easy cleanup.
- Work in batches: Don’t overcrowd the air fryer—circulation is key for crispy tops.
🧠 FAQ: Your Jalapeño Popper Questions Answered
Can I make these in the oven instead?
Yes! Bake at 400°F for 20–25 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Are these spicy?
The heat level depends on the jalapeños. Removing seeds and membranes cuts the heat significantly.
How do I make them less spicy?
Soak deseeded jalapeños in cold water or milk for 30 minutes before stuffing.
Can I make them vegetarian?
Absolutely! Just skip the bacon or use vegetarian crumbles or mushrooms for flavor.
Are they keto-friendly?
Yes! Skip the panko or use pork rinds instead for a delicious low-carb crunch.
📊 Nutrition Info (Per Popper, Approximate)
- Calories: 90
- Fat: 7g
- Carbs: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Sugar: 0.5g
Note: Values will vary based on ingredients and add-ins.
🔁 How to Store & Reheat
Storing:
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
Reheating:
- Air Fryer: 350°F for 4–5 minutes
- Oven: 375°F for 8–10 minutes
- Microwave: 30 seconds (may lose some crispness)
🧺 Ideal for Every Occasion
Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers aren’t just for parties — they’re also perfect for:
- Game nights
- Movie snacks
- Holiday appetizers
- Potlucks and BBQs
- Meal prep (add to salads or wraps!)
These bites deliver flavor, crunch, and heat in one easy-to-make, easy-to-eat package.
📌 Pro Tip: Jalapeños Too Hot? Try These!
If you’re not a fan of the spice but love the creamy, cheesy filling, try these alternatives:
- Mini bell peppers – Sweet and mild
- Banana peppers – Tangy with just a little bite
- Cubanelle peppers – Great for stuffing with no heat
✨ Final Thoughts
These Easy Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers are the kind of snack that disappears within minutes. They’re fast, fun, and totally flexible. Once you get the hang of them, you’ll never want to serve a party spread without them.
With just a few simple ingredients and your trusty air fryer, you can whip up restaurant-quality poppers in the comfort of your home. Whether you’re hosting friends or just treating yourself, this recipe brings bold flavor and satisfying crunch to any occasion.