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Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers Recipe

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4.2 from 8 reviews

These Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers are a quick, delicious appetizer featuring fresh jalapeños stuffed with a creamy blend of cream cheese, sharp cheddar, and green onions, then coated in buttery panko breadcrumbs and air-fried to a perfect golden crisp. Ready in just 18 minutes, they make a flavorful, spicy snack or party favorite.

Ingredients

Jalapeños

  • 5 medium fresh jalapeños

Filling

  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 2 tbsp green onions, chopped
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • ⅛ tsp black pepper

Topping

  • ¼ cup Panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 tbsp butter, melted

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Jalapeños: Wear gloves or handle the jalapeños carefully. Slice each jalapeño lengthwise in half and use a small spoon to scoop out all seeds and membranes, hollowing out the halves. Set aside.
  2. Make the Filling: In a small bowl, thoroughly mix softened cream cheese, shredded sharp cheddar, chopped green onions, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth and combined.
  3. Stuff the Peppers: Spoon the cheese mixture into each jalapeño half, filling approximately 1 tablespoon per pepper.
  4. Coat with Breadcrumbs: In a separate small dish, combine the panko breadcrumbs with melted butter, mixing until the crumbs are evenly coated. Dip the cream cheese filled side of each jalapeño half into the buttery breadcrumbs to cover evenly.
  5. Air Fry: Arrange the stuffed jalapeños in a single even layer in the air fryer basket. Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 5 to 8 minutes, until the breadcrumbs are golden and crispy and the filling is melted and bubbly.

Notes

  • Wearing gloves while handling jalapeños helps avoid skin irritation and accidental contact with eyes.
  • Scooping out seeds and membranes reduces the heat level; leave some membranes for spicier poppers.
  • Ensure the jalapeños are evenly coated in breadcrumbs for a crispy texture.
  • Check early at 5 minutes to avoid burning, as air fryer models may vary.
  • Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.