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

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These crispy bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers made in the air fryer deliver the perfect balance of smoky, creamy, and spicy flavor with a quick and easy preparation.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 10 medium jalapeño peppers, stems removed and halved lengthwise
  • 8 ounces (225g) full-fat cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup (100g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 10 thin slices of bacon, cut in half if needed
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Chopped green onions or fresh cilantro (optional garnish)

Instructions

  1. Rinse and dry 10 medium jalapeño peppers. Slice each in half lengthwise and carefully remove the seeds and membranes with a small spoon or knife.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine 8 ounces softened cream cheese, 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until smooth and well blended.
  3. Using a spoon or small scoop, fill each jalapeño half generously with the cream cheese mixture without overfilling.
  4. Take 10 thin slices of bacon and cut them in half if needed to fit around the jalapeños. Wrap each filled jalapeño half with a slice of bacon, securing it so it stays wrapped during cooking.
  5. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes.
  6. Arrange the bacon-wrapped poppers in a single layer in the air fryer basket, avoiding overcrowding. Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the bacon is crispy and cheese is bubbly.
  7. Check for doneness; bacon should be golden and crisp, and jalapeño tender but not mushy. Cook an extra 2-3 minutes if needed, watching closely to prevent burning.
  8. Let the poppers cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped green onions or cilantro if desired.

Notes

Preheat the air fryer for best results. Flip poppers halfway through cooking and rotate the basket if your air fryer cooks unevenly. Avoid overfilling to prevent filling from spilling. Let poppers rest 3-5 minutes after cooking to allow cheese to set. For baking, cook at 400°F (200°C) on a wire rack for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.

Nutrition

Keywords: jalapeño poppers, bacon-wrapped, air fryer, appetizer, spicy snack, creamy filling, crispy bacon

Find it online: https://breezybake.com/crispy-bacon-wrapped-jalape-n-o-poppers-air-fryer-recipe-easy-and-perfect/