Air-Fried Jalapeno Poppers: A Quick, Crunchy Treat

Jalapeno poppers are a delicious snack or appetiser that can be made in an air fryer in a matter of minutes. The process is simple: cut jalapenos in half, deseed, fill with cream cheese, wrap in bacon, and air fry. You can also add extra ingredients to the cream cheese, such as shredded cheese, green onions, garlic powder, and spices. This is a great dish to make ahead of time and store in the fridge or freezer until you're ready to cook and serve.

How to prepare jalapenos for stuffing

Preparing jalapeños for stuffing is a simple process, but it requires careful handling. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to prepare jalapeños for stuffing:

Step 1: Put on Gloves

As a safety precaution, it is highly recommended to wear plastic gloves when handling jalapeños. The peppers contain capsaicin, a compound that can irritate the skin and eyes. Gloves will protect your hands from direct contact with the jalapeños and prevent any accidental transfer of the compound to sensitive areas.

Step 2: Cut the Jalapeños in Half

Using a sharp knife, cut each jalapeño in half lengthwise. This will expose the seeds and membranes inside the pepper. You can also leave the stem on for presentation or remove it—whichever you prefer.

Step 3: Remove the Seeds and Membranes

Use a small, sturdy spoon to scoop out the seeds and membranes from each jalapeño half. Be thorough in removing the seeds, as they can be quite spicy. You can also use a grapefruit spoon or a small melon baller, which some people find easier for scraping out the insides of the peppers.

Step 4: Rinse the Jalapeños

After removing the seeds and membranes, give the jalapeño halves a quick rinse under running water. This will help remove any remaining seeds and reduce some of the heat from the peppers.

Step 5: Pat Dry

Before stuffing the jalapeños, make sure to pat them dry with a clean paper towel or kitchen towel. This step will help the filling adhere better to the pepper and prevent the peppers from becoming soggy.

Step 6: Prepare the Jalapeños for Stuffing

At this point, your jalapeños are ready for stuffing! You can fill them with a variety of ingredients, such as cream cheese, cheddar cheese, green onions, garlic powder, or even cooked chorizo. Be creative and experiment with different combinations of cheeses, spices, and meats to find your favourite flavour profile.

Remember, when working with jalapeños, it's important to prioritise safety. Always wear gloves, avoid touching your face, and wash your hands thoroughly after handling the peppers. By following these steps, you'll have perfectly prepared jalapeños ready for stuffing and baking!

What to mix with the cream cheese

Jalapeno poppers are a tasty treat, and you can get creative with the cream cheese filling. Here are some ideas for what to mix with the cream cheese to take your jalapeno poppers to the next level:

Spinach and Artichoke

Mix cooked spinach, chopped artichoke hearts, cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, and garlic for a creamy and flavourful filling. This spin on the classic spinach and artichoke dip is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Buffalo Chicken

Shred some cooked chicken and mix it with cream cheese, buffalo sauce, and shredded cheddar cheese for a spicy kick. It's like having buffalo wings in popper form—perfect for game day or any time you're craving a spicy snack.

Crab Rangoon

For a unique fusion, try mixing crab meat, cream cheese, green onions, and soy sauce. This combination will give your jalapeno poppers an Asian-inspired twist that's sure to impress.

Bacon and Cheddar

Combine cooked and crumbled bacon with shredded cheddar cheese. The smoky flavour of the bacon pairs perfectly with the spiciness of the jalapenos, creating a savoury and indulgent filling that's hard to resist.

Classic Cream Cheese

Of course, you can always go for the classic cream cheese filling. Use plain cream cheese or mix it with shredded cheddar, herbs, or spices to add your own twist. This simple yet delicious option is sure to satisfy.

How to cook the poppers in an air fryer

Jalapeno poppers are a great snack to cook in an air fryer. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to make them:

Ingredients:

First, gather your ingredients. You will need jalapenos, cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and bacon. You can also add in some crispy panko breadcrumbs and melted butter for an extra crispy texture. If you want to add some spice, leave the seeds in the jalapenos or add some paprika. For a tangier taste, brush the jalapenos with BBQ sauce.

Prep:

Start by slicing the jalapenos in half, lengthwise. Then, use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and membranes. Be sure to wear gloves during this step to avoid getting jalapeno juice on your skin, which can irritate your eyes or lips. If you prefer more spice, you can leave some seeds in the jalapenos.

Filling:

In a small bowl, mix the cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until well combined. You can use an electric hand mixer for this step if desired. If you are using bacon, cook it beforehand and chop it into small pieces. Stir the bacon into the cream cheese mixture, reserving some to sprinkle on top of the jalapenos later.

Assembly:

Spoon the cream cheese mixture into the jalapeno halves. Top the jalapenos with the remaining shredded cheese and bacon. If you are using the panko breadcrumbs, dip the stuffed jalapenos into the crumbs to coat.

Cooking:

Place the jalapeno poppers into the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they are not overlapping. Set the air fryer to 350-400 degrees Fahrenheit and cook for 5-12 minutes, depending on your desired level of crispness. For a bacon-wrapped version, cook for 10-15 minutes. Check on the jalapeno poppers periodically to ensure they do not burn.

Serving:

Remove the jalapeno poppers from the air fryer and place them on a paper towel to remove any excess grease. Serve immediately.

Storing and Reheating:

Jalapeno poppers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place them back in the air fryer and cook for 3-5 minutes, until the cream cheese is melted and the bacon is warm and crispy.

How to store and reheat jalapeno poppers

Jalapeno poppers are a delicious snack, but what do you do when you have leftovers? The good news is that you can store and reheat jalapeno poppers! Here is a detailed guide on how to do it:

Storing Jalapeno Poppers:

Before storing jalapeno poppers, it is important to let them cool down completely. Place the poppers in an airtight container and separate any layers with parchment paper to prevent the breadcrumbs from getting soggy. You can also line the container with a paper towel to absorb any excess moisture. Store the jalapeno poppers in the refrigerator and try to consume them within 3 to 5 days.

For longer-term storage, you can freeze jalapeno poppers for up to 6 months. To prevent them from sticking together in the freezer, flash freeze them by placing them on a cookie sheet and putting them in the freezer for about an hour. Then, transfer the frozen poppers to a freezer bag, ensuring you remove as much air as possible to avoid freezer burn.

Reheating Jalapeno Poppers:

The best way to reheat jalapeno poppers will depend on how they were originally prepared (oven-baked or deep-fried) and whether you have access to specific equipment like an air fryer or oven. Here are some common methods for reheating:

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Place the jalapeno poppers on a baking tray, ensuring they don't touch each other. Heat for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. If you want extra crispiness, turn on the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes. This method works well for oven-baked poppers, but deep-fried poppers may become too soft.
• Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 370°F (190°C). Lightly coat the poppers with oil, especially if they are oven-baked. Place them in a single layer in the air fryer and heat for 5-7 minutes, or up to 10 minutes if frozen. Avoid stacking the poppers to ensure even heating. This method works very well for deep-fried jalapeno poppers.
• Microwave: While not ideal, you can use the microwave if you're in a hurry. Place the poppers on a microwave-safe plate lined with paper towels to absorb any grease. Heat on full power for 20-30 seconds, adding 5 seconds for each additional popper. Let them rest for 30 seconds before serving. However, be aware that the poppers may become soggy, especially the deep-fried ones.
• Broiler: If your poppers just need a quick refresh, the broiler can help. Set it to medium and spread the poppers on a wire rack. Heat for 2-3 minutes, turning them halfway through if they are coated all around. This method works well for thin, oven-baked poppers but may not heat thicker poppers evenly.
• Re-frying: While possible, it is not recommended due to the high risk of overcooking and greasiness.

What to serve with jalapeno poppers

Jalapeno poppers are a flavourful appetiser, but what should you serve with them to make a full meal? Here are some ideas for side dishes and other foods to serve with jalapeno poppers.

Side Dishes

• Sweet corn salad is a refreshing side dish that goes well with jalapeno poppers. A sweet corn salad is made with fresh corn kernels, bell peppers, onions, and a tangy dressing.
• Guacamole is a classic Mexican dip that pairs perfectly with jalapeno poppers. It is made with ripe avocados, lime juice, garlic, and other seasonings.
• Spinach artichoke dip is a creamy and savory side dish that complements jalapeno poppers. It is made with spinach, artichoke hearts, cream cheese, and grated cheese.
• Chipotle coleslaw is a smoky and spicy variation of traditional coleslaw that goes well with jalapeno poppers. It is made with shredded cabbage, carrots, and a chipotle-infused dressing.
• Refried beans are a classic and hearty side dish that goes great with jalapeno poppers. They are made by mashing cooked pinto beans with spices and a touch of oil or lard.
• Grilled pineapple is a sweet and tangy side dish that works well with jalapeno poppers. Grilling the pineapple brings out its natural sweetness and adds a touch of smoky flavour.
• Mexican rice is a flavorful and versatile side dish that pairs well with jalapeno poppers. It is cooked with tomatoes, onions, garlic, and various spices.
• Black bean salad is a healthy and flavorful side. It is made with black beans, corn, tomatoes, onions, and a zesty dressing.
• Cucumber yogurt dip, also known as tzatziki, is a cool and refreshing side dish that pairs well with jalapeno poppers. It is made with grated cucumber, yogurt, garlic, and herbs.
• Salsa is a classic and versatile side dish that goes well with jalapeno poppers. Whether you prefer a mild tomato-based salsa or a spicier version with roasted chilies, this zesty condiment adds a burst of flavour.
• Cheese dip is a warm and indulgent side made with a blend of melted cheeses and spices.

Other Foods

Jalapeno poppers also go well with other appetisers and snacks, such as:

• Mozzarella sticks
• Chicken wings
• Bruschetta
• Chicken sandwiches
• BBQ foods, such as ribs or chicken, green beans, cornbread, mac and cheese, or baked beans
• Chicken breast sandwiches
• Chicken breast with garlic and herb seasoning
• Black bean soup, quesadillas, guacamole, and salsa
• Mozzarella sticks
• Perogies
• Blooming onion
• Spinach artichoke dip
• Chicken tenders with hot honey
• Crispy baked chicken wings
• Bacon cheese dip party ring

Frequently asked questions