These Air Fryer Jalapeno Poppers are the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer that combines a spicy kick with a rich, creamy filling. Whether you are hosting a game day party or a holiday gathering, these low-carb treats are incredibly easy to whip up in just about 10 minutes.
Table of Contents
Why You Will Love This Recipe
There are so many reasons to make Air Fryer Jalapeno Poppers your go-to snack. First, the air fryer creates a perfectly tender pepper without the need for deep frying, making it a lighter alternative to traditional versions. The combination of melted cheddar, crispy bacon, and smooth cream cheese offers a flavor explosion in every bite. Plus, this recipe is naturally low-carb and keto-friendly, ensuring that all your guests can enjoy them regardless of their dietary preferences.
Ingredients
- 6 Large Jalapeños
- 1 Tablespoon Oil
- 8 ounces Cream Cheese (softened)
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Onion Powder
- 1-2 teaspoons Half & Half
- Pinch of Salt and Pepper
- 1/4 Cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese
- 4 Slices Cooked Bacon (chopped)
- 2 Green Onions (sliced)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Start by slicing the jalapeños lengthwise and removing all seeds and veins to control the heat level.
- Rub the exterior of the jalapeños with oil and place them into a greased air fryer basket.
- Air fry the peppers at 400ºF for 4 minutes. Remove them and let them cool for about 5 minutes until they are safe to handle.
- Place the peppers upside down on a paper towel to drain any excess liquid or oil that may have accumulated.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Add the half & half and mix until the texture is creamy and smooth.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and the chopped bacon crumbles into the cream cheese mixture.
- Fill each jalapeño half generously with the cream cheese mixture and return them to the air fryer basket. Top with a little extra cheese and bacon if desired.
- Air fry at 400ºF for an additional 5 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with sliced green onions and serve immediately.
Expert Tips / Pro Tips
To ensure the best results, always use room temperature cream cheese so it blends smoothly without lumps. When handling jalapeños, it is highly recommended to wear food-safe gloves to prevent the capsaicin from irritating your skin or eyes. If you prefer a milder popper, make sure to scrape out every bit of the white pith inside the pepper, as that is where most of the heat resides. Finally, do not overcrowd the air fryer basket; leaving space between the peppers allows the hot air to circulate and cook them evenly.
Variations & Substitutions
While cheddar is the classic choice, you can easily swap it for Pepper Jack for extra spice or Smoked Gouda for a deeper flavor profile. If you want a crunchy texture on top, sprinkle a few crushed pork rinds or Panko breadcrumbs over the filling before the final air fry. For a vegetarian version, simply omit the bacon and add some finely diced sun-dried tomatoes or smoked paprika to maintain a savory, smoky element.
Serving Suggestions
These Air Fryer Jalapeno Poppers pair beautifully with a variety of dipping sauces. Serve them alongside a bowl of cool ranch dressing or blue cheese dip to balance the heat. They also make a fantastic addition to an appetizer platter featuring chicken wings, mozzarella sticks, or celery sticks. For a festive touch, arrange them on a white ceramic platter and sprinkle with extra fresh herbs.
Storage, Freezing & Reheating
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. While you can freeze them, the texture of the jalapeño may become slightly softer upon thawing. To reheat, simply place the poppers back in the air fryer at 350ºF for 3 to 5 minutes until the filling is hot and the cheese is melted again. Avoid using a microwave for reheating, as it can make the peppers soggy.
Nutrition Information
| Metric | Amount Per Serving |
| Calories | 219 kcal |
| Total Fat | 20g |
| Saturated Fat | 10g |
| Cholesterol | 51mg |
| Sodium | 303mg |
| Carbohydrates | 5g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sugar | 2g |
| Protein | 6g |
Air Fryer Jalapeno Poppers
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by slicing the jalapeños lengthwise and removing all seeds and veins to control the heat level.6 Large Jalapeños
- Rub the exterior of the jalapeños with oil and place them into a greased air fryer basket.6 Large Jalapeños, 1 Tablespoon Oil
- Air fry the peppers at 400ºF for 4 minutes. Remove them and let them cool for about 5 minutes until they are safe to handle.
- Place the peppers upside down on a paper towel to drain any excess liquid or oil that may have accumulated.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Add the half & half and mix until the texture is creamy and smooth.8 ounces Cream Cheese, 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder, 1/2 teaspoon Onion Powder, 1-2 teaspoons Half & Half, 1 Pinch Salt and Pepper
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and the chopped bacon crumbles into the cream cheese mixture.1/4 Cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese, 4 Slices Cooked Bacon
- Fill each jalapeño half generously with the cream cheese mixture and return them to the air fryer basket. Top with a little extra cheese and bacon if desired.
- Air fry at 400ºF for an additional 5 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with sliced green onions and serve immediately.2 Green Onions
Notes
FAQ
How do I make jalapeño poppers less spicy?
The heat of the pepper is concentrated in the seeds and the white internal ribs (pith). To make them mild, use a spoon to thoroughly scrape out all the seeds and white parts before filling them.
Can I prepare these in advance?
Yes! You can clean and fill the jalapeños up to 24 hours in advance. Store them covered in the refrigerator and simply air fry them when you are ready to serve.
Why did my filling leak out?
Filling usually leaks if the peppers are overstuffed or if the cream cheese is too thin. Stick to the recommended amount of half & half to ensure the mixture stays thick enough to remain inside the pepper.
Do I need to pre-cook the bacon?
Yes, for this specific recipe, the bacon should be cooked and chopped before being mixed into the cream cheese to ensure it is perfectly crispy.