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Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers Air Fryer Recipe Easy Perfect Snack

bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers air fryer - featured image

These crispy bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers are a quick and easy snack made in the air fryer, combining smoky bacon, spicy jalapeños, and creamy cheese filling for a perfect crunchy bite.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 medium-sized fresh jalapeños, halved and seeded
  • 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup (50 g) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon onion powder (optional)
  • ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 12 thin slices bacon
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Wash the jalapeños thoroughly. Slice each pepper lengthwise in half and carefully remove the seeds and membranes.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Stir until smooth and well blended.
  3. Fill each jalapeño half with the cheese mixture using a spoon or small scoop, creating a slight mound without spilling over.
  4. Cut bacon slices in half if needed to fit the pepper halves. Wrap each stuffed jalapeño half tightly with a bacon strip, securing the ends underneath.
  5. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes.
  6. Place the bacon-wrapped jalapeños in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until bacon is crispy and cheese is bubbling.
  7. Let the poppers cool for 2-3 minutes before serving.

Notes

Use thin bacon for best crispiness. Remove jalapeño seeds to control heat and bitterness. Flip poppers halfway through cooking for even browning. Pat jalapeños dry before stuffing to avoid watery filling. If bacon isn’t crispy enough, add a few more minutes but watch carefully to avoid burning. Can bake in oven at 400°F for about 20 minutes if no air fryer is available.

Nutrition

Keywords: jalapeño poppers, bacon-wrapped, air fryer, snack, appetizer, spicy, cheesy, quick recipe