These Easy Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers deliver the perfect balance of creamy, spicy, and crunchy in every bite. Stuffed with a rich, cheesy filling and wrapped in a crisp, golden coating, they’re an irresistible appetizer or snack. The air fryer works its magic in just 10 minutes, giving you a healthier yet equally indulgent treat.
The creamy filling melts beautifully against the fiery kick of fresh jalapeños, while the outer layer adds a satisfying crunch. Ready in 30 minutes, they’re a quick, crowd-pleasing option for game nights or casual gatherings. Warm, gooey, and perfectly seasoned, these poppers will have everyone reaching for seconds!
Ingredients for Easy Air Fryer Jalapeno Poppers
- 8 jalapeno peppers (medium-sized, for easy stuffing)
- 8 ounces cream cheese (softened for easy spreading)
- 1 ½ cups panko bread crumbs (or substitute with regular breadcrumbs)
- 1 cup flour (all-purpose works best)
- Salt (to taste)
- Black pepper (to taste)
- Garlic powder (to taste)
- Onion powder (to taste)
- Italian herb blend (parsley, oregano, basil, rosemary; or use pre-mixed Italian seasoning)
- 4 slices pre-crisped bacon (optional; can use turkey bacon for a lighter option)
- 2 eggs (for the egg wash)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the jalapenos: Slice each jalapeno in half lengthwise. Use a spoon to remove the white flesh and seeds (wear gloves if sensitive to spice).
- Season the bread crumbs: In a small bowl, mix the panko bread crumbs with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian herb blend. Spread the mixture onto a plate or shallow dish and set aside.
- Prepare the egg wash: Crack the eggs into a bowl, whisk until smooth, and set aside.
- Stuff the jalapenos: Spoon cream cheese into each jalapeno half (about 2-3 teaspoons per half). Avoid overfilling to prevent spillage during cooking.
- Coat the jalapenos: Roll each stuffed jalapeno in flour, then dip into the egg wash, and finally coat with the seasoned bread crumbs. Ensure each popper is evenly coated.
- Air fry the poppers: Place the coated jalapeno poppers in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Do not overcrowd to allow proper air circulation. Cook at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes. Check for crispness and cook for an additional 1-4 minutes if needed.
- Optional bacon step: If using bacon, air fry the bacon slices at 375°F (190°C) for 4-5 minutes until crisp. Once cooled, wrap each breaded jalapeno popper with a slice of bacon and secure with a toothpick. Air fry again at 350°F (175°C) for 10-14 minutes, checking after 10 minutes, until the jalapeno is cooked and the bacon is crisp.
- Serve and enjoy: Let the poppers cool slightly before serving. Pair with your favorite dipping sauce!
Spice It Up: Sauce and Topping Ideas
Take your jalapeno poppers to the next level with delicious dipping sauces and toppings! Try a creamy ranch dressing or a tangy sriracha mayo (mix 1/4 cup mayo with 1-2 teaspoons sriracha). For a smoky twist, drizzle with chipotle aioli or sprinkle crumbled blue cheese on top. If you’re feeling adventurous, add a dollop of guacamole or salsa for a fresh, zesty finish.
Perfect Pairings: Serving Suggestions
These jalapeno poppers are a crowd-pleasing appetizer, but they also pair wonderfully with other dishes. Serve them alongside grilled chicken, burgers, or tacos for a complete meal. For a party platter, arrange them with mozzarella sticks, wings, and veggie sticks. Don’t forget a cold drink—these poppers go great with a chilled beer or a spicy margarita!
Make-Ahead Magic: Storage and Reheating Tips
Prepping ahead? You can assemble the poppers (without air frying) and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. To reheat, pop them back in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-5 minutes until warm and crispy. If you have leftovers, store them in the fridge and reheat the same way—avoid the microwave to keep the breading crisp!
Customize Your Poppers: Recipe Variations
Switch things up with these fun variations! Swap the cream cheese for goat cheese or cheddar for a tangy twist. For a meatier option, mix in cooked sausage or shredded chicken with the cream cheese. If you’re gluten-free, use almond flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs. Feeling bold? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the breadcrumbs for extra heat!
Air Fryer Pro Tips: Equipment Guidance
To get the best results, make sure your air fryer basket isn’t overcrowded—this ensures even cooking and crispiness. If your air fryer has a preheat function, use it for a more consistent cook. For easy cleanup, line the basket with parchment paper or use a silicone liner. Don’t forget to shake the basket halfway through cooking for even browning!
Easy Air Fryer Jalapeno Poppers
Ingredients
- 8 jalapeno peppers
- 8 ounces cream cheese
- 1 ½ cups panko bread crumbs
- 1 cup flour
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Italian herb blend (parsley, oregano, basil, rosemary)
- 4 slices pre-crisped bacon optional
Instructions
- Slice jalapenos in half and remove the white flesh and seeds.
- Add the dry seasonings into the bread crumbs and mix until evenly dispersed. Spread bread crumbs onto a plate or shallow dish and set aside.
- Crack eggs into a bowl or shallow dish, whisk eggs and set aside.
- Spoon cream cheese into each jalapeno half, do not overfill (approximately 2-3 teaspoons).
- Roll each stuffed jalapeno in the flour, then in the egg wash to coat. Immediately roll each jalapeno into the seasoned bread crumbs.
- Place stuffed and coated jalapeno poppers in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Do not crowd the poppers to allow the air to circulate around each one. This recipe is air fried in two batches with most air fryers.
- Cook at 350 degrees for 10 minutes, check poppers and cook for an additional 1-4 minutes to your desired level of crispness.
- Optional: Wrap prepared bacon around each breaded jalapeno or omit the breading step and wrap prepared bacon around each cream cheese stuffed jalapeno*.
- To prepare bacon, air fry at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 4-5 minutes until crisp.
- Once cooled, wrap each breaded or un-breaded* jalapeno popper in bacon and secure with a toothpick. Air fry in a single layer at 350 degrees for 10-14 minutes until jalapeno is cooked and bacon is crisp. Check after 10 minutes. Do not crowd the poppers in the air fryer basket.