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Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers Air Fryer Recipe Easy 10-Minute Snack

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A quick and easy snack featuring spicy jalapeños filled with creamy cheese and wrapped in crispy bacon, cooked perfectly in the air fryer.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 medium-sized fresh jalapeños, halved and seeded (leave some seeds for extra heat)
  • 8 oz (225g) softened cream cheese
  • 1 cup (100g) shredded cheddar cheese
  • 12 slices thin-cut bacon
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: chopped fresh cilantro or chives for garnish
  • Optional: hot sauce or cayenne pepper for extra spice
  • Optional: turkey bacon for a lighter option

Instructions

  1. Rinse and dry 12 medium jalapeños. Slice each in half lengthwise and remove seeds and membranes, leaving some seeds if extra heat is desired (about 5 minutes).
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine 8 oz softened cream cheese and 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese. Add 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, and salt and pepper to taste. Mix until smooth (about 3 minutes).
  3. Spoon the cheese mixture into each jalapeño half, pressing gently to fill completely without overflowing (about 5 minutes).
  4. Cut each slice of bacon in half. Wrap each jalapeño half tightly with a bacon strip, securing the ends underneath if possible. Arrange seam-side down on a plate (5-7 minutes).
  5. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes.
  6. Place the bacon-wrapped jalapeños in the air fryer basket in a single layer with space between each. Cook for 8-10 minutes, turning halfway through with tongs for even crisping. Watch closely after 8 minutes to avoid burning. Poppers are done when bacon is crispy and cheese is bubbly.
  7. Let the poppers cool for 2-3 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped cilantro or chives if desired.

Notes

Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to ensure crispy bacon. Use thin-cut bacon for best results. You can bake in the oven at 400°F for 20-25 minutes if no air fryer is available. Prepare filling ahead to save time. Use gloves when handling jalapeños to avoid skin irritation. Reheat in air fryer to maintain crispiness; avoid microwaving.

Nutrition

Keywords: jalapeño poppers, bacon-wrapped, air fryer, snack, appetizer, spicy, creamy, quick recipe