Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers
Crispy, cheesy, and packed with the perfect amount of heat, these Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers make a delicious and easy snack or party appetizer.
Equipment
- Air fryer
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon or small spatula
- Small brush
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking tray or plate
Ingredients
- For the Poppers
- 8 fresh jalapeños halved lengthwise and seeds removed
- 4 ounces cream cheese softened
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon butter melted
- Cooking spray for air fryer basket
Instructions
Prepare the Jalapeños
- Slice the jalapeños in half lengthwise and carefully remove the seeds and membranes with a small spoon.
- Tip:
- Wearing gloves makes this step safer and keeps the spice off your hands!
Mix the Cheesy Filling
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, green onions, garlic powder, and smoked paprika until smooth and creamy.
- Tip:
- Let the cream cheese sit out for 20 minutes before mixing for an easier blend.
Fill the Jalapeño Halves
- Spoon the cheesy mixture generously into each jalapeño half, smoothing the tops lightly.
- Tip:
- Don't overfill — a slightly rounded scoop helps keep the poppers tidy and easy to eat.
Top with Breadcrumbs
- Mix the panko breadcrumbs with the melted butter, then sprinkle over the filled jalapeños.
- Tip:
- Gently press the crumbs into the filling so they stick better while air frying.
Air Fry to Perfection
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray the basket with cooking spray, arrange the poppers in a single layer, and air fry for 6–8 minutes until golden and crispy.
- Tip:
- Check at 6 minutes — every air fryer is a little different!
Notes
You can prepare and refrigerate the filled poppers (without breadcrumbs) up to 24 hours in advance.
For a gluten-free version, substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed pork rinds.
Leftovers reheat beautifully in the air fryer for 3–5 minutes at 350°F (175°C).