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Crispy Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers

air fryer bacon wrapped jalapeño poppers - featured image
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A quick and easy snack featuring jalapeños stuffed with a creamy cheese mixture, wrapped in bacon, and cooked to crispy perfection in an air fryer. Perfect for parties and game days.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 fresh medium-sized jalapeños, washed and halved lengthwise, seeds and membranes removed
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 12 strips thick-cut bacon, partially cooked and pliable
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro or green onions (optional)
  • Toothpicks (optional, for securing bacon)

Instructions

  1. Wash and dry 12 fresh jalapeños. Slice each in half lengthwise and carefully scoop out the seeds and membranes using a small spoon. Remove all seeds for milder poppers or leave some for more heat. (About 10 minutes)
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine 8 ounces softened cream cheese, 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix well until creamy and smooth. Stir in 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro or green onions if using. (5 minutes)
  3. Using a spoon or small spatula, generously fill each jalapeño half with the cheese mixture. Avoid overfilling to prevent spilling during cooking. (5 minutes)
  4. Partially cook 12 strips of thick-cut bacon until they start to render fat but are still soft and pliable (about 4-5 minutes in a skillet or microwave). Wrap each stuffed jalapeño half with a bacon strip, securing with a toothpick if needed. (10 minutes)
  5. Preheat air fryer to 370°F (188°C) and let it warm up for 3 minutes. (3 minutes)
  6. Place the bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers in the air fryer basket in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding. Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until bacon is crispy and cheese is bubbly. (15 minutes)
  7. Remove poppers carefully with tongs and let cool for 3 minutes before serving to allow cheese to set and avoid burns. (3 minutes)

Notes

Partially cook bacon before wrapping to avoid chewy texture. Do not overcrowd air fryer basket for even cooking. Adjust heat by removing jalapeño seeds or substituting mini sweet peppers. Remove toothpicks before serving. Can be prepared ahead and refrigerated up to 4 hours before cooking. Reheat leftovers in air fryer at 350°F for 4-5 minutes to restore crispiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: jalapeño poppers, air fryer, bacon wrapped, snack, appetizer, party food, spicy, cheesy, quick recipe

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