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Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers Air Fryer Recipe

bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers air fryer recipe - featured image

A quick and easy appetizer featuring jalapeños stuffed with creamy cheese, wrapped in crispy bacon, and cooked to perfection in the air fryer. Perfect for parties and a crowd-pleaser with a spicy, smoky, and creamy flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 medium to large jalapeño peppers, halved and seeded
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 12 slices thin-cut bacon
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: finely chopped green onions or fresh cilantro for garnish
  • Optional: dash of hot sauce mixed into the cheese filling

Instructions

  1. Rinse 12 medium-large jalapeños and slice them in half lengthwise. Remove seeds and membranes carefully.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine 8 oz softened cream cheese with 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese. Add 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until smooth and well combined.
  3. Fill each jalapeño half generously with the cheese mixture using a spoon.
  4. Wrap each stuffed jalapeño half with one slice of thin-cut bacon, spiraling from base to tip. Secure with a toothpick if needed.
  5. Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place bacon-wrapped jalapeños in a single layer in the basket. Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until bacon is crispy and cheese is bubbly. Add 2-3 extra minutes if needed, watching closely to avoid burning.
  6. Remove from air fryer and let cool for a couple of minutes before serving.

Notes

Wear gloves or wash hands thoroughly after handling jalapeños to avoid irritation. Use thin-cut bacon for best crispiness. Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket for even cooking. You can bake in the oven at 400°F for 20 minutes if no air fryer is available. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-5 minutes to restore crispiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: jalapeño poppers, bacon wrapped, air fryer, appetizer, spicy, cheesy, party food, quick recipe