Air Fryer Jalapeno Poppers

These Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers are spicy, creamy, and utterly crispy. With a perfectly melted filling inside a golden pepper shell, they’re the perfect mix of heat and savory crunch.

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Many recipes take a lot of time or require heating up the whole kitchen to feel special, but not these appetizers! I whipped these up on a night when I needed something fast without turning on the oven, and they disappeared so quickly I knew I had to share them. That should tell you HOW GOOD THEY ARE.

I wanted to see if I could get that bold flavor and creaminess with very little effort and a lot more crunch. And, wow. They’re bold, warm, surprisingly easy, and completely satisfying. They’re a must-make!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These air fryer jalapeño poppers bring big flavor with very little work.

Crispy outside: The air fryer gives the peppers a crunchy coating without deep frying.

Creamy center: Cream cheese melts into a smooth, rich filling that balances the heat.

Quick cooking: Everything comes together in under 25 minutes start to finish.

Simple prep: Basic ingredients and easy steps keep things stress free.

Crowd friendly: Great for game nights, parties, or casual snacking.

Easy cleanup: No oil splatter and fewer dishes make cleanup fast.

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Ingredients

For the Jalapeño Poppers:

• 10 fresh jalapeño peppers
• 8 ounces cream cheese softened
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon salt

For the Coating:

• 1 cup breadcrumbs or panko
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon chili powder optional
• Cooking spray or olive oil spray

Optional Add Ins:

• Cooked bacon bits
• Green onions finely chopped
• Mozzarella or pepper jack cheese
• Ranch or sour cream for serving

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Step by Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Jalapeños

Start by washing the jalapeños well and patting them dry. Slice each pepper lengthwise to create two halves. Use a small spoon to gently remove the seeds and membranes. This step controls the heat, so remove more membrane if you want milder poppers. Place the jalapeño halves on a plate while you prepare the filling.

2. Make the Cheese Filling

In a mixing bowl, add the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until the mixture looks smooth and evenly combined. If adding bacon or green onions, mix them in now. The filling should feel thick but spreadable and easy to spoon.

3. Fill the Peppers

Spoon the cheese mixture into each jalapeño half. Spread it evenly so the filling sits level with the edges. Avoid overfilling since the cheese can puff slightly as it cooks. Once filled, set the peppers aside and move on to the coating

4. Coat for Crunch

In a shallow bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with smoked paprika and chili powder if using. Lightly spray the tops of the filled jalapeños with cooking spray, then gently press them into the breadcrumb mixture. This helps the coating stick and creates that crispy top layer

5. Air Fry the Poppers

Preheat the air fryer to 375°F. Arrange the jalapeño poppers in a single layer in the basket, leaving a little space between each one. Spray the tops lightly with oil. Cook for 10 to 12 minutes until the breadcrumbs turn golden and the cheese looks bubbly. Let them cool for a minute before serving

Tips & Variations

• Use panko breadcrumbs for a lighter, crispier topping.
• Add cayenne or crushed red pepper to the filling for more heat.
• Try pepper jack or mozzarella for a different flavor.
• Mix crispy bacon into the cheese for smoky richness.
• Prep the poppers earlier and keep them chilled, then air fry when ready.

Serving Suggestions

Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers work well as a snack, appetizer, or party bite. Serve them hot with ranch dressing, sour cream, or a creamy garlic dip. They pair nicely with wings, sliders, or a simple veggie platter.

When I set these out for guests, I like to add a small bowl of dipping sauce and a sprinkle of chopped green onions on top. The poppers hold their shape well and stay crisp long enough for sharing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these less spicy?

Yes, remove all seeds and membranes from the jalapeños to reduce heat.

Can I use low fat cream cheese?

You can, though the filling may feel slightly less creamy after cooking.

Do I need to preheat the air fryer?

Preheating helps the coating crisp faster and cook evenly.

Can I freeze jalapeño poppers?

Yes, freeze them before cooking. Air fry straight from frozen and add a few extra minutes.

How do I store leftovers?

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for best texture.

Final Thoughts

Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers deliver bold flavor without complicated steps. The mix of crunchy topping, soft cheese, and spicy pepper creates a snack that feels indulgent yet simple.