Description
These Crispy Air Fryer Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers are a perfect blend of smoky bacon, creamy cheese, and spicy jalapenos. Quick to prepare and cooked to crispy perfection in the air fryer, they make an ideal appetizer or snack for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Jalapenos
- 12 medium fresh jalapenos, washed and halved lengthwise
Cheese Filling
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Bacon
- 12 slices thin-cut bacon
Instructions
- Prepare the Jalapenos: Slice each jalapeno in half lengthwise and carefully scoop out the seeds and membranes to reduce heat and create space for the filling.
- Make the Cheese Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Mix thoroughly until it forms a smooth, evenly blended cheese filling.
- Stuff the Jalapenos: Using a spoon or small scoop, generously fill each jalapeno half with the prepared cheese mixture, ensuring they are well-filled but not overflowing.
- Wrap with Bacon: Take one slice of thin-cut bacon and wrap it snugly around each stuffed jalapeno half, overlapping slightly to secure the bacon tightly around the filling.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and allow it to preheat for a few minutes to ensure even cooking.
- Arrange in Air Fryer Basket: Place the bacon-wrapped jalapenos in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not touching for proper air circulation.
- First Cook: Cook them for about 7 minutes, allowing the bacon to start crisping and the cheese mixture to heat through.
- Flip and Finish Cooking: Flip each popper carefully using tongs and continue cooking for another 5-8 minutes until the bacon is golden and crispy, and the cheese inside is bubbling.
- Check Doneness: Ensure the bacon is crispy and the jalapenos are tender but still holding their shape before removing them from the air fryer.
- Rest and Serve: Let the poppers rest for a few minutes to allow the cheese to set slightly, then serve warm for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For less heat, remove all the seeds and membranes from the jalapenos.
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened for easier mixing.
- Thin-cut bacon crisps better and wraps easier around jalapenos.
- Use tongs carefully when flipping to avoid tearing the bacon wrap.
- Serve immediately after resting to enjoy maximum crispness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: jalapeno poppers, bacon wrapped jalapenos, air fryer appetizer, cheesy jalapenos, party snack
