Air Fryer Jalapeno Poppers: How Long To Fry?

Jalapeno poppers are a delicious snack, but how long do they need in the air fryer? Well, it depends on the recipe you're following and your air fryer's power. Most recipes suggest cooking jalapeno poppers for around 5-15 minutes at temperatures between 350-400°F. However, it's important to keep an eye on them to ensure they don't overcook. You'll know they're done when the bacon is crisp, and the cheese is melted and oozing.

How to make jalapeno poppers in an air fryer

Ingredients:

• Jalapenos
• Cream Cheese
• Cheddar Cheese
• Green Onions
• Bacon
• Olive Oil
• Salt
• Pepper
• Ranch Seasoning
• BBQ Sauce
• Breadcrumbs
• Butter

Steps:

• Cut the tops off the jalapenos and slice them in half lengthwise.
• Deseed the jalapenos. It is recommended to wear gloves while doing this to avoid irritation.
• If you want to add a little more spice, you can leave some seeds in.
• If you are using bacon, cut the slices in half and wrap each jalapeno half.
• If you are using breadcrumbs, mix them with melted butter and dip the jalapenos in before placing them in the air fryer.
• Place the jalapenos in the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving space between them.
• Set the air fryer to 350-380 degrees Fahrenheit and cook for 5-12 minutes.
• If cooking from frozen, you may need to add a few minutes to the cooking time.
• The jalapeno poppers are ready when the bacon is crispy and the cheese is melted and oozing.
• If desired, brush the jalapeno poppers with BBQ sauce and cook for a further couple of minutes.
• Leave the jalapeno poppers to cool slightly before serving as they will be very hot.

Tips:

• If you are making these ahead of time, you can store them in the fridge for up to four days or in the freezer for up to three months.
• If you are making a large batch, you may need to cook the jalapeno poppers in multiple batches to avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket.
• You do not need to preheat the air fryer before cooking jalapeno poppers.
• If you are using an oven instead of an air fryer, preheat to 425 degrees Fahrenheit and bake for 12-15 minutes.

Jalapeno popper cooking times and temperatures

Jalapeno poppers are a delicious snack or appetizer that can be cooked in an air fryer in a matter of minutes. The cooking time will depend on the specific model of air fryer being used, the size of the jalapeno poppers, and the desired level of crispness. However, on average, jalapeno poppers will take between 8 to 15 minutes to cook in an air fryer.

Cooking Times and Temperatures for Frozen Jalapeno Poppers

When cooking frozen jalapeno poppers in an air fryer, it is important to ensure that they are cooked through without overheating, which can cause the cheese to ooze out. The ideal temperature for cooking frozen jalapeno poppers is 380°F/193°C, and the cooking time will range from 8 to 12 minutes. It is recommended to cook the poppers in a single layer and shake or turn them halfway through to ensure even cooking.

Cooking Times and Temperatures for Fresh Jalapeno Poppers

Fresh jalapeno poppers can be cooked at a higher temperature than frozen ones, with ideal temperatures ranging from 350°F to 400°F. The cooking time will depend on the desired level of crispness, but on average, fresh jalapeno poppers will take between 8 to 15 minutes to cook in an air fryer.

Tips for Cooking Jalapeno Poppers in an Air Fryer

When preparing jalapeno poppers, it is important to wear gloves and avoid touching your face, especially your eyes, as the juices from the jalapenos can cause severe irritation. Additionally, when cooking frozen poppers, it is recommended to cook them from frozen rather than thawing them first. For best results, cook the poppers in a single layer and do not overcrowd the air fryer basket.

Storing and Reheating Jalapeno Poppers

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

How to store leftover jalapeno poppers

Jalapeno poppers are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, return the poppers to the air fryer and cook for 3-5 minutes at 370-400°F until the cream cheese has melted and the bacon is warm and crispy.

It is not recommended to freeze jalapeno poppers as the cream cheese-cheese mixture is unlikely to thaw well. However, if you wish to freeze them, wrap them tightly in foil or place them in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat from frozen in the oven or air fryer at 400°F for about 10 minutes, or until heated through.

What to serve with jalapeno poppers

Jalapeno poppers are a flavourful and spicy snack, often served as an appetiser. They can be served with a variety of side dishes to create a well-rounded meal. Here are some ideas for what to serve with jalapeno poppers:

• Sweet Corn Salad: A refreshing side dish that pairs well with the poppers. It is made with fresh corn kernels, bell peppers, onions, and a tangy dressing, creating a medley of flavours and textures.
• Guacamole: A classic Mexican dip made with ripe avocados, lime juice, garlic, and seasonings. It provides a cool and zesty contrast to the spicy poppers and can be served with tortilla chips or fresh veggies for dipping.
• Spinach Artichoke Dip: A creamy and savoury dip that complements the poppers. It is made with spinach, artichoke hearts, cream cheese, and grated cheese, and is perfect for dipping tortilla chips or crusty bread.
• Carne Asada: A flavourful and tender grilled meat dish that pairs well with the poppers. The beef is marinated in a mix of citrus, garlic, and spices, then grilled to perfection, offering a satisfying protein option.
• Chipotle Coleslaw: A smoky and spicy twist on traditional coleslaw. It is made with shredded cabbage, carrots, and a chipotle-infused dressing, adding a crunchy and flavourful kick to your meal.
• Refried Beans: A classic, hearty side dish that goes well with the poppers. Cooked pinto beans are mashed with spices and a touch of oil or lard, resulting in a creamy and comforting dish that contrasts with the crispy poppers.
• Grilled Pineapple: A sweet and tangy side that works well with the poppers. Grilled pineapple brings out its natural sweetness and adds a touch of smoky flavour. The combination creates a mouthwatering contrast of sweet and spicy.
• Mexican Rice: A versatile and flavourful side, cooked with tomatoes, onions, garlic, and spices. It provides a warm and comforting balance to the spicy and cheesy poppers.
• Black Bean Salad: A healthy and nutritious side, made with black beans, corn, tomatoes, onions, and a zesty dressing. The hearty beans and fresh vegetables complement the rich, spicy flavours of the poppers.
• Cucumber Yogurt Dip: Also known as tzatziki, this Greek-inspired dip is a cool and refreshing contrast to the spicy poppers. It is made with grated cucumber, yogurt, garlic, and herbs, and can be served with pita bread or fresh veggies.
• Salsa Fresca: A fresh and zesty side, also known as pico de gallo. It is made with chopped tomatoes, onions, cilantro, jalapenos, and lime juice, bringing a burst of fresh flavours to the meal.
• Salsa: A classic and versatile condiment that adds a tangy contrast to the rich, creamy filling of the poppers. You can choose a mild tomato-based salsa or a spicier version with roasted chillies.
• Cheese Dip: A warm and indulgent side made with melted cheese and spices. It adds an extra layer of richness to the poppers and can be served with tortilla chips or fresh veggies for dipping.
• Loaded Nachos: A fun and delicious side, topped with cheese, beans, tomatoes, jalapenos, sour cream, and other desired toppings. They offer a satisfying and flavourful contrast to the spicy poppers, and can be customised with your favourite ingredients.

These side dishes will enhance the dining experience and create a truly satisfying meal when served with jalapeno poppers.

How to reheat jalapeno poppers

Jalapeno poppers are a delicious snack, but what happens when you have leftovers? Well, you can always reheat them in the air fryer, of course! Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

• Preheat your air fryer to 380 degrees Fahrenheit. This is the ideal temperature to ensure your poppers get heated evenly without burning.
• Place the leftover jalapeno poppers in the air fryer basket. Make sure they are in a single layer and not stacked or overcrowded. This allows the hot air to circulate properly and reheat the poppers evenly.
• Reheat the poppers for 4-5 minutes. Keep a close eye on them, as you don't want the cheese to completely melt and ooze out.
• Once the poppers are warmed through, remove them from the air fryer and place them on a paper towel to absorb any excess grease.
• Serve and enjoy! Be careful, as the filling will be very hot.

Tips for Reheating Jalapeno Poppers:

• It is best to reheat only the amount of poppers you plan to eat. Reheating leftovers multiple times is not recommended, as it can affect the texture and taste.
• If you are reheating frozen jalapeno poppers, you may need to increase the cooking time by a few minutes. Frozen poppers typically take around 9-10 minutes to reheat thoroughly.
• If you are reheating poppers with bacon, aim for a lower temperature of around 370 degrees Fahrenheit and cook for 10-12 minutes. This ensures the bacon crisps up nicely without burning.
• Always wear gloves when handling jalapenos, as the juices can irritate your skin and eyes.
• If you want to add some extra flavour to your poppers, try serving them with dipping sauces like ranch dressing, sour cream, BBQ sauce, or a creamy jalapeno dip.

Frequently asked questions