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Crispy Air Fryer Bacon Jalapeño Poppers

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These crispy air fryer bacon jalapeño poppers combine smoky bacon, melty cheese, and spicy jalapeños for a quick and savory snack perfect for game days and casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 10–12 fresh medium-sized jalapeños
  • 8–10 strips thick-cut bacon
  • 8 ounces (225 g) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup (about 100 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: pinch of smoked paprika
  • Optional: chopped fresh cilantro

Instructions

  1. Wearing gloves, slice each jalapeño in half lengthwise and scoop out seeds and membranes to control heat (about 5 minutes).
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until creamy. Fold in smoked paprika or cilantro if using.
  3. Fill each jalapeño half with the cheese mixture using a spoon or melon baller, avoiding overfilling (about 10 minutes).
  4. Cut bacon strips in half if needed and wrap each stuffed jalapeño half with one bacon piece, securing with a toothpick if loose.
  5. Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3 minutes.
  6. Place poppers in a single layer in the air fryer basket with space for air circulation. Cook for 12-15 minutes, turning halfway through, until bacon is crispy and cheese is bubbly.
  7. Let poppers rest for a couple of minutes before serving to allow cheese to set.

Notes

Wear gloves when handling jalapeños to avoid irritation. Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking and crispy bacon. If bacon crisps too fast, lower temperature to 350°F and cook longer. Poppers can be baked at 400°F for 15-20 minutes if no air fryer is available. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat in air fryer to maintain crispiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: jalapeño poppers, air fryer, bacon, spicy snack, cheesy appetizer, game day snack, easy recipe

Find it online: https://elvafood.com/crispy-air-fryer-bacon-jalape-n-o-poppers-easy-recipe-for-savory-snacks/