Description
Deliciously spicy and savory Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers feature creamy cheese filling wrapped in smoky bacon, cooked to crispy perfection in minutes. This easy appetizer combines the heat of jalapeños with smooth cream cheese, sharp cheddar, and a hint of honey, all air fried for a healthier twist on a classic party favorite.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese Filling
- 4 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
- ½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ tablespoon honey
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- ⅛ teaspoon coarse kosher salt
- ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
Vegetables
- 6 large jalapeños, deveined, deseeded, and halved
Other
- 12 ounces (12 slices) standard bacon (not thick cut)
- 2 teaspoons avocado oil
- 1 tablespoon parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare Cheese Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the cream cheese, shredded sharp cheddar, honey, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, red pepper flakes, coarse kosher salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated, forming a smooth, flavorful cheese filling.
- Fill Jalapeños: Take each jalapeño half, which has been deveined and deseeded, and evenly scoop the prepared cheese mixture into each cavity, ensuring they are generously filled without overflowing.
- Wrap with Bacon: Take one slice of standard bacon and wrap it snugly around each stuffed jalapeño half, securing the cheese filling and adding a smoky flavor layer.
- Prepare Air Fryer: Using a pastry brush, lightly oil the bottom of your air fryer basket with avocado oil to prevent sticking and promote even cooking.
- Arrange and Oil Poppers: Place the bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they have space for hot air circulation. Baste the tops of each popper lightly with avocado oil to encourage crispiness.
- Air Fry: Set the air fryer temperature to 400°F (204°C) and cook the poppers for 14 to 20 minutes, or until the bacon is thoroughly cooked and crispy. Check periodically for doneness to avoid burning.
- Garnish and Serve: Once cooked, carefully remove the poppers from the air fryer, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley, and serve hot for an irresistible appetizer experience.
Notes
- Removing seeds from jalapeños reduces heat but retains flavor. Adjust based on your spice tolerance.
- Use standard bacon slices, not thick-cut, for optimal cooking and crispiness in the air fryer.
- If air fryer basket is small, cook the poppers in batches to ensure even cooking.
- Allow poppers to cool slightly before eating to avoid burning from hot cheese.
- Substitute avocado oil with olive oil if preferred for basting.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 poppers
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
