Air Fryer Jalapeno Poppers: Quick, Easy, And Delicious!

Jalapeno poppers are a delicious snack and a great appetizer for parties or game days. They are creamy, crunchy, and slightly spicy. The best part? They can be made in an air fryer in under 15 minutes!

The process is simple: cut the jalapenos in half, deseed them, fill them with a cream cheese mixture, and wrap them in bacon. Then, pop them into the air fryer for 5-15 minutes, depending on your desired level of crispness.

So, if you're looking for a quick, easy, and delicious snack, jalapeno poppers made in an air fryer are a perfect choice!

How to make jalapeno poppers in an air fryer

Jalapeno poppers are a great snack, appetizer, or game-day treat. They are easy to make and can be prepared in advance. This recipe uses bacon-wrapped jalapenos stuffed with a cream cheese mixture. The air fryer ensures the bacon is crispy and the clean-up is easy.

Ingredients:

• Jalapenos (1 medium or 6 large)
• Cream cheese (4-8 oz)
• Shredded cheddar cheese (1/4 cup)
• Breadcrumbs (1/4 cup)
• Butter (1 tbsp, melted)
• Olive oil (1 tbsp)
• Salt
• Garlic powder
• Black pepper
• Green onions (2-3 tbsp, chopped)
• Bacon (6 slices or 1/2 lb)

Optional Ingredients:

• Ranch seasoning (1 tbsp)
• BBQ sauce
• Red onion (finely chopped)
• Smoked paprika

Method:

• Cut the jalapenos in half lengthwise.
• Scoop out the seeds and membranes. (Tip: Wear gloves when handling jalapenos to avoid transferring the juice to your skin, which can irritate your eyes or lips.)
• Rinse the jalapenos.
• Mix the cream cheese, cheddar cheese, green onions, and spices in a bowl. (Optional: add cooked and crumbled bacon to the mixture.)
• Fill each jalapeno half with the cream cheese mixture.
• Wrap each jalapeno with a slice of bacon and secure it with a toothpick. (Optional: brush the bacon with BBQ sauce.)
• Place the jalapeno poppers in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
• Air fry at 350-400°F for 10-15 minutes, until the bacon is crisp. (Tip: If you are using pre-cooked bacon, reduce the cooking time to 5-8 minutes.)
• Serve immediately.

Make-Ahead Instructions:

• Prepare the jalapeno poppers as instructed but do not cook them.
• Wrap them with plastic and place them in the fridge for up to 4 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• When ready to cook, follow the above instructions, increasing the cooking time if cooking from frozen.

How long to cook jalapeno poppers in an air fryer

Jalapeno poppers are a great snack or appetizer, and cooking them in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to get them nice and crispy. The time it takes to cook jalapeno poppers in an air fryer can vary depending on the specific model and settings used, but generally, they should take between 5 to 15 minutes. Here is a more detailed guide on how long to cook jalapeno poppers in an air fryer:

Preparation:

Before cooking your jalapeno poppers in the air fryer, there are a few preparation steps you should take:

• Cut the jalapenos in half lengthwise.
• Remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapenos. It is recommended to wear plastic or rubber gloves during this step to avoid getting jalapeno juice on your skin, which can be irritating.
• If desired, you can fill the jalapeno halves with a cream cheese mixture or another filling of your choice.
• Some recipes also suggest wrapping the filled jalapeno halves with bacon and securing it with a toothpick.

Cooking Time:

Now, for the cooking time! As mentioned earlier, the cooking time can vary depending on your air fryer and desired level of doneness. Here are some general guidelines:

• For crispy bacon-wrapped jalapeno poppers, cook at 350-370 degrees Fahrenheit for 10-12 minutes. Check on them after 10 minutes, and cook for the full 12 minutes if you want crispier bacon.
• If you're cooking frozen jalapeno poppers, preheat your air fryer to 380 degrees Fahrenheit and cook for a total of 9 minutes, flipping them halfway through.
• For plain jalapeno poppers without bacon, cooking at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 4-5 minutes should be sufficient.
• Keep in mind that air fryer temperatures can vary, so it's always good to keep an eye on your poppers to ensure they don't overcook.

Serving:

Once your jalapeno poppers are cooked to your desired level of doneness, remove them from the air fryer and serve immediately. They are best enjoyed fresh and crispy! You can also serve them with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ranch dressing or BBQ sauce.

Reheating:

If you have any leftover jalapeno poppers, you can easily reheat them in the air fryer. Place them back in the air fryer basket and cook at 350-380 degrees Fahrenheit for 3-5 minutes, or until they are warmed through and crispy again.

How to store leftover jalapeno poppers

Jalapeno poppers are a delicious snack, but what do you do if you have leftovers? Here are some tips on how to store them to ensure they stay fresh and tasty.

Firstly, it's important to note that jalapeno poppers are best enjoyed fresh. However, if you do have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should last for about three to four days.

If you want to freeze your jalapeno poppers, it is best to do so before cooking them. Wrap them tightly in foil or store them in a sealed container, and they can last for up to three months. When you're ready to eat them, cook them directly from frozen, adjusting the cooking time as needed.

To reheat your jalapeno poppers, simply pop them back into the air fryer for a few minutes until they're heated through. You can also reheat them in the oven or microwave, but be careful not to overheat them, as this can affect the texture and taste.

Now you can enjoy your jalapeno poppers again and again! Just remember to store them properly and reheat them gently to preserve their delicious flavour and texture.

How to reheat jalapeno poppers in an air fryer

To reheat jalapeno poppers in an air fryer, preheat the air fryer to 380 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the poppers in the basket in a single layer, leaving space between each one. Reheat for 3-5 minutes, or until the cream cheese has melted and the bacon is warm and crispy.

• Preheat your air fryer to 380 degrees Fahrenheit. It is best to use this temperature to ensure even cooking and to prevent the poppers from overcooking or burning.
• Place the leftover jalapeno poppers in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are in a single layer and not overlapping. Leave some space between each popper to allow for proper air circulation.
• Reheat the poppers for 3-5 minutes. Keep an eye on them, as the exact time may vary depending on the power and model of your air fryer. The poppers are ready when the cream cheese filling has melted and the bacon is warm and crispy.
• Remove the poppers from the air fryer and serve immediately. They are best enjoyed fresh, so try to time the reheating process just before serving.

Tips for Reheating Jalapeno Poppers:

• It is not necessary to use oil or cooking spray when reheating jalapeno poppers in the air fryer, as there is usually enough oil in the breading of the poppers themselves.
• If you are reheating frozen jalapeno poppers, they can go directly from the freezer to the air fryer. There is no need to thaw them first.
• When reheating, it is best to cook the poppers in batches to ensure even cooking and to prevent overcrowding in the air fryer basket.
• Jalapeno poppers are best enjoyed warm and crispy. To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.

By following these simple steps, you can enjoy delicious, crispy, and warm jalapeno poppers using your air fryer, making them a convenient and tasty snack or appetizer.

What to serve with jalapeno poppers

Jalapeno poppers are a delicious, spicy appetiser, often served as a side dish. They are a great option for game day or parties, and can be cooked in an air fryer in under 15 minutes. But what should you serve with them? Here are some ideas for side dishes and accompaniments to create a truly satisfying meal.

Savoury Sides

• Garlic bread is a classic, indulgent side that pairs well with the spicy poppers. The gooey cheese and garlicky flavour contrast nicely with the heat of the jalapenos.
• Spinach artichoke dip is another creamy, savoury option that complements the jalapeno poppers. The earthy flavours of spinach and artichoke balance the spice, and it's perfect for dipping.
• Guacamole is a must-have for any Mexican-inspired meal. This creamy, zesty dip provides a cool contrast to the spicy poppers, and can be served with tortilla chips or fresh veggies for dipping.
• Carne asada is a flavourful, tender grilled beef dish that's been marinated in citrus, garlic, and spices. It offers a satisfying protein option to go with the poppers.
• Chipotle coleslaw is a smoky, spicy twist on traditional coleslaw. The crunchy texture and chipotle kick add an extra dimension to your meal.
• Refried beans are a classic, hearty option that goes well with jalapeno poppers. The creamy, savory dish adds comfort to the spicy, crispy appetiser.
• Grilled pineapple is a sweet and tangy option that works surprisingly well with jalapeno poppers. The natural sweetness of the pineapple balances the spice, creating a mouthwatering contrast.
• Mexican rice is a versatile, flavourful side that pairs nicely with the poppers. The warm, comforting flavours and spices provide a great balance to the spicy, cheesy appetiser.
• Black bean salad is a healthy, nutritious option that goes well with jalapeno poppers. The hearty beans and fresh vegetables complement the rich, spicy flavours.
• Sweet corn salad is a refreshing side that offers a medley of flavours and textures. The natural sweetness of corn is a great match for the spiciness of the jalapeno poppers.
• Cucumber yogurt dip, also known as tzatziki, is a cool, refreshing Greek-inspired dip that pairs well with the heat of the poppers. Serve it with pita bread or fresh veggies for a delightful contrast.
• Salsa fresca, or pico de gallo, is a fresh, zesty side that enhances the savoury experience of the jalapeno poppers. The tangy taste of the salsa brings a burst of fresh flavours to the meal.
• Cheese dip is a warm, indulgent option that adds an extra layer of richness to the spicy poppers. Serve it with tortilla chips or fresh veggies for a delicious dipping experience.
• Loaded nachos are a fun, delicious option to pair with jalapeno poppers. Loaded with cheese, beans, tomatoes, jalapenos, and sour cream, they offer a satisfying and flavorful contrast to the spicy poppers.

Main Course Ideas

If you want to make jalapeno poppers part of a larger meal, here are some main course ideas that will complement them well:

• Chicken dishes: Chicken enchiladas, chicken and smoked gouda poppers, or bacon-wrapped chicken poppers are some options that will pair well with the spicy, cheesy flavours of the jalapeno poppers.
• Pork tenderloin: Try an Asian-marinated or Southwest-marinated pork tenderloin to add some variety to your meal.
• Sloppy Joes: These saucy, savoury sandwiches can be a fun and messy main course to go with your jalapeno poppers.
• Tacos: Whether you go for traditional beef or vegan cheese tacos, they can be a tasty and customisable option to serve with jalapeno poppers.
• Burritos: Hearty and satisfying, burritos can be a great main course option, especially if you include ingredients like ground beef, salsa, and Velveeta cheese.
• Pizza: Why not try a pizza with jalapeno poppers as a topping, or serve them as a side with a more traditional pizza?
• Pasta: A simple, comforting pasta dish can be a great main course to go with the spicy poppers. Try a classic bolognese or a more unique option like a go-to pasta with kale, brussel sprouts, and dressing.
• BBQ dishes: Jalapeno poppers can be a great side for a BBQ meal. Think ribs, chicken, green beans, cornbread, mac and cheese, or baked beans, and finish it off with a chocolate cake for dessert!

Drinks

To drink, a cabernet (red wine) or a lighter Chardonnay (white wine) could complement the spicy, cheesy flavours of the jalapeno poppers.

Frequently asked questions