Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers

Name: Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4
Ingredients: 8 fresh jalapeño peppers; ½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ¼ teaspoon onion powder; ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and black pepper, to taste; ½ cup all-purpose flour; 2 large eggs; 1 cup breadcrumbs; Olive oil spray or cooking spray

Stella Parker

Servings: 4 Total Time: 30 mins Difficulty: Beginner

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If you’re looking for the perfect appetizer that’s creamy, spicy, crispy, and downright addictive, look no further than Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers! These little bites are a flavor explosion — fresh jalapeño peppers stuffed with a rich and cheesy filling, coated in a crispy golden crust, and air-fried to perfection. The result is a mouthwatering combination of spice, crunch, and creamy indulgence that hits all the right notes.

Whether you enjoy them with ranch, sour cream, or your favorite dipping sauce, these jalapeño poppers are the kind of treat that will disappear from the table in minutes. Each bite delivers the perfect balance of heat from the jalapeños, coolness from the creamy cheese filling, and crispiness from the breadcrumb coating — an irresistible trio that you’ll want to make again and again.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it turns something spicy and bold into a comfort snack that everyone can enjoy. The air fryer does a phenomenal job at creating that classic crispy texture without the mess of deep frying, and I love how customizable the filling is.

Whether you’re using cheddar, cream cheese, or even bacon, every version is delicious.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This dish is a must-try because it’s the ultimate appetizer for spice lovers and cheese enthusiasts alike. The balance of flavors and textures is unbeatable — crispy on the outside, creamy on the inside, and packed with flavor.

Unlike greasy fried versions, the air fryer gives you all the crunch with minimal oil, making it easier, cleaner, and healthier.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 8–10 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings (2–3 poppers per person)
Calories: Approximately 220 calories per serving

Course and Cuisine

Course: Appetizer / Snack
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

For the Jalapeño Poppers:

8 fresh jalapeño peppers (medium-sized, halved lengthwise and seeded)
4 oz (113 g) cream cheese, softened
½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
½ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon onion powder
¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Coating:

½ cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs (beaten)
1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko or regular)
Olive oil spray or cooking spray

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare the Jalapeños

Slice each jalapeño lengthwise and carefully remove the seeds and membranes (use gloves if sensitive to chili).
Set the cleaned halves aside on a paper towel to dry.

Step 2: Make the Filling

In a medium bowl, mix together cream cheese, cheddar cheese, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Stir until smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Fill the Jalapeños

Using a spoon or piping bag, fill each jalapeño half with the cheese mixture.
Make sure the filling is level with the top of the pepper (not overflowing).

Step 4: Bread the Poppers

Roll each filled jalapeño in flour, shaking off excess.
Dip into beaten eggs, then coat with breadcrumbs.
For extra crunch, double coat: dip again in egg and then breadcrumbs.
Arrange on a plate or tray and lightly spray with olive oil.

Step 5: Air Fry the Jalapeño Poppers

Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes.
Place poppers in the air fryer basket in a single layer (don’t overcrowd).
Air fry for 8–10 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden and crisp.
Remove carefully and let cool slightly before serving — the filling will be hot!

How to Serve

Serve your Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers hot with a cooling dip to balance the spice. Popular options include:

Ranch dressing
Sour cream or Greek yogurt dip
Spicy mayo or chipotle aioli
Blue cheese dressing

They make a perfect starter for BBQs, parties, game nights, or as a side dish with grilled meats or burgers.

Recipe Tips

Use gloves when handling jalapeños to avoid skin irritation.
Double coat for extra crunch!
Don’t overfill — too much filling can leak out during air frying.
For a lighter version, skip the breading and air fry the stuffed peppers directly for a crustless option.
Always preheat the air fryer for even crisping.

Variations

Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers:
Skip the breadcrumbs and wrap each stuffed pepper in a half-slice of bacon. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes.
Vegetarian Version:
Add finely chopped spinach or mushrooms to the cheese mixture for extra flavor and nutrition.
Extra Cheesy Poppers:
Mix mozzarella or pepper jack cheese into the filling for a creamier, stretchier texture.
Keto/Low-Carb Version:
Skip the flour and breadcrumbs — use crushed pork rinds or almond flour for a low-carb coating.
Seafood Twist:
Stir in chopped cooked crab or shrimp for an indulgent, seafood-inspired filling.

Freezing and Storage

To Store (Cooked): Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for 3–4 minutes at 375°F.
To Freeze (Uncooked): Arrange breaded poppers on a tray and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer bag and store for up to 2 months.
To Cook from Frozen: Air fry at 380°F (193°C) for 10–12 minutes, turning halfway through.

Special Equipment Needed

Air fryer
Mixing bowls
Small spoon or piping bag
Tongs
Gloves (optional, for handling jalapeños)

Conclusion

Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers are the ultimate combination of spice, crunch, and creamy cheesiness — everything you want in a bite-sized snack! They’re simple to make, customizable, and healthier than deep-fried versions, yet every bit as delicious. Whether you’re hosting a party, watching a game, or just treating yourself to something special, these poppers will steal the show.

Crispy, cheesy, and perfectly spicy — these air fryer jalapeño poppers are proof that great flavor doesn’t need to be complicated. Once you make them at home, they’ll become your new favorite appetizer!