Fail-Proof Air-Fryer Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Popper
These Air-Fryer Bacon Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers are everything you love about the classic bar snack, only faster, easier, and way less greasy. No messy deep-frying, no babysitting a hot oven. Just 10 minutes, a handful of ingredients, and a countertop miracle machine. You’ll be cranking these out faster than your guests can devour them.
Equipment
- Air fryer (any basket-style or oven-style will do)
- Cutting board & knife
- Small mixing bowl
- Spoon or piping bag (to fill poppers)
- Tongs (for safe removal)
- No toothpicks required—if wrapped tightly, the bacon stays secure during cooking.
Ingredients
- 6 medium jalapeños halved lengthwise and seeds removed
- 4 oz half block cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp smoked paprika optional
- Pinch of salt and pepper
- 6 slices regular-cut bacon cut in half
Instructions
- Instructions
- Prep the Jalapeños
- Slice jalapeños in half lengthwise and scoop out seeds and membranes. (Use gloves if sensitive to chili oils.) Set aside.
- Make the Filling
- In a small bowl, mix together cream cheese, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth and well blended.
- Fill the Poppers
- Using a spoon or piping bag, fill each jalapeño half with the cheese mixture—level to the edges, but not overfull.
- Wrap with Bacon
- Wrap each filled jalapeño half with a half-strip of bacon, starting at one end and spiraling around. Tuck the loose end underneath if possible.
- Air Fry
- Preheat air fryer to 390°F (200°C). Arrange poppers in a single layer in the basket, bacon seam-side down.
- Air-fry for 8–10 minutes, or until the bacon is crisp and the cheese is bubbling. If needed, add 1–2 minutes for crispier bacon or depending on your air fryer’s wattage.
- Cool Slightly & Serve
- Let the poppers cool for 2–3 minutes before serving, they’ll firm up a bit and be easier to handle.
Notes
Storage & Reheating Tips
- Store: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Air-fry at 350°F for 3–5 minutes or reheat in the oven for 8 minutes at 375°F.
- Freeze: Wrap raw poppers tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Cook directly from frozen, just add 4–5 minutes to the cook time.
- Can I make these ahead?
Yes! Assemble them up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate until ready to cook. - How spicy are they?
Moderately spicy. Removing the seeds and membranes reduces the heat. For milder poppers, soak jalapeño halves in cold water for 30 minutes before stuffing. - Can I make these without an air fryer?
Yes! Bake at 400°F (205°C) for 20–25 minutes on a foil-lined baking sheet.
Nutrition
Calories: 95kcalCarbohydrates: 1gProtein: 5gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 3gSodium: 250mg
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