- Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- In a small bowl, mix cream cheese, cheddar, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Fill each jalapeño half with the cheese mixture.
- Sprinkle panko breadcrumbs on top of each stuffed jalapeño and lightly press down.
- Spray air fryer basket with cooking spray and arrange jalapeños in a single layer.
- Cook for 8–10 minutes, until jalapeños are tender and breadcrumbs are golden brown.
- Serve warm with ranch or your favorite dipping sauce.
Serving and Storage:
- Serve immediately for best crispness.
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Reheat in the air fryer for 2–3 minutes to restore crispiness.
Tips:
- Use gloves when handling jalapeños to avoid skin irritation.
- For extra spice, leave some seeds in the jalapeño halves.
- Swap cheddar for pepper jack for a spicier, creamier filling.
- Add crumbled bacon to the filling for a smoky twist.
Conclusion:
Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers are a fast, flavorful, and perfectly crispy snack that’s great for parties, game day, or anytime you want a cheesy kick.
FAQ:
Can I use frozen jalapeños? Fresh jalapeños are best; frozen will be too soft.
Can I bake instead? Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes.
Can I make ahead? Prepare and store un-cooked jalapeños in fridge for a few hours, then air fry when ready.
Can I add other fillings? Yes — cream cheese mixed with garlic, bacon, or herbs works great.
