Homemade Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers [w/ Crispy Bacon]

cream cheese

🥗Healthier: Greek yogurt

💰Cheaper: ricotta cheese

Greek yogurt adds creaminess with fewer calories.

bacon

🥗Healthier: turkey bacon

💰Cheaper: pork belly

Turkey bacon is lower in fat while maintaining flavor.

cheddar cheese

🥗Healthier: reduced-fat cheese

💰Cheaper: colby jack cheese

Reduced-fat cheese lowers calories while still melting well.

breadcrumbs

🥗Healthier: panko breadcrumbs

💰Cheaper: crushed crackers

Crushed crackers provide a crunchy texture at a lower cost.

Rinse the jalapeño peppers.

Cut the jalapeño peppers in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds and white veins.

Set the jalapeño halves aside.

In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, shredded cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.

Mix everything with a fork or spoon until well combined, using softened cream cheese for ease.

Use a knife to fill the jalapeño halves with the cream cheese mixture, underfilling slightly to allow for expansion.

Dip the cheese-filled side of each pepper into the panko breadcrumbs and press down gently.

Slice the bacon lengthwise.

Wrap one bacon strip around the middle of each stuffed jalapeño and secure the ends with a toothpick.

Preheat the air fryer to 360 degrees Fahrenheit (180 degrees Celsius).

Add the peppers to the air fryer in one even layer, leaving space between them.

Cook the jalapeño poppers at 360 degrees Fahrenheit for 7 to 9 minutes until the peppers are soft, cheese is bubbling, breadcrumbs are golden brown, and bacon is cooked.

Carefully remove the jalapeño poppers from the air fryer and let them cool for 1 to 2 minutes before serving.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Allergens