Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers

If you are looking for the best and easiest game day or holiday party snack, these Air Fryer Jalapeno Poppers is my go-to recipe. Whether I wrap in bacon or change the spices this air fryer recipe is always a crowd favorite.

If you have tried our Cream Cheese Stuffed Jalapeños or Crispy Bacon Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers then you are going to love cooking them in the air fryer!

Why You’ll Love Air Fryer Jalapeno Poppers

• Best Flavor – Combination of cream cheese and jalapenos tames the heat for the best flavor.
• Faster & Healthier – Using the air fryer has been a game changer for my family. Ready in 25 minutes with minimal prep time
• Perfect Party Snack – Great for game day, holidays, or gatherings

Ingredients

• Fresh Jalapeño Peppers – We like to get medium to large Jalapeños size to make sure there is enough room for the filling
• Cream Cheese – Make sure to softened cream cheese before adding in the other ingredients
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese – We like using freshly shredded cheese for the best taste. We also like to use sharp cheddar cheese or colby jack cheese
• Garlic Powder – If you are out, see The Best Garlic Powder Substitute
• Panko Breadcrumbs – Gives the poppers that crispy topping
• Butter – Use unsalted melted butter

Scroll to the bottom for the full recipe in the recipe card

How to Make Jalapeño Poppers in the Air Fryer

Step 1 – Cut the jalapeños in half lengthwise. Remove the seeds and ribs with a spoon or small knife. 

Step 2 – In a medium bowl, stir together the cream cheese, cheddar cheese, garlic powder and salt until combined. 

Step 3 – Spoon this cheesy filling mixture into the center of the jalapeño slices. 

Step 4 – In another separate small dish, stir together the panko breadcrumbs and melted butter.

Step 5 – Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly on top of the cream cheese mixture.

Step 6 – Place the jalapeño poppers in a single layer in an air fryer basket.

• Step 7 – Air fry at 375 degrees F for 6-8 minutes until the top of the poppers are browned and the jalapeños are tender. 
• Step 8 – Remove from the air fryer and place on a paper towel lined plate. Let the poppers rest for 5-10 minutes and then they are ready to serve and enjoy! You can garnish with green onions right before serving for even more flavor.

Recipe Tips

• Jalapenos – Make sure to use gloves when handling the jalapeños so that the oils from the jalapeños do not burn your hands. I try to get the same size jalapenos so they cook evenly.
• Cooking Time – Check your jalapeño poppers after cooking for 6 minutes and then continue to cook in 1 minute intervals until they are browned. You may have to work in batches as you want to cook the poppers in a single layer.
• Rest – After cooking the Jalapeno Poppers allow them to rest for about 5 minutes.
• Bake – If you prefer you can bake these poppers by placing on a baking sheet that has been lined with foil. Bake in a preheated oven at 425 degrees for about 12-15 minutes.
• Air Fryer Basket – To prevent the poppers from sticking, you may need to spray olive oil nonstick cooking spray on the bottom of the basket.

Variations Ideas

• Add Bacon – These Jalapeno Poppers are delicious wrapped in bacon. Air fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping once for crisp bacon slices. You may need to use toothpicks to attach the slice of bacon to the jalapeno.
• Buffalo-Style – Add a dash of buffalo sauce to the cream cheese mix.
• Low-Carb / Keto – Omit breadcrumbs and use only cheese and bacon.

Serving Suggestions

These Air Fryer Poppers are delicious served as an appetizer for your next gathering. We love to add a small bowl of Homemade Ranch Dressing and Blue Cheese Dressing to dip the poppers into too.

They go perfect with Boneless Chicken Wings and Crock Pot Bacon Wrapped Smokies for the perfect party spread. Add Sparkling Lemonade for a tasty signature drink.

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Storing – These are best served immediately while warm but you can any leftovers in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 5 days. 
• Freezing – Freeze unbaked poppers on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. So they freeze individually. Air fry from frozen, adding 2–3 minutes to the cook time. You can also freeze after cooking for a quick snack anytime by wrapping with plastic wrap and then place in a freezer storage bag.
• Reheating – Reheat the cooked jalapeno poppers in the air fryer for about 2 minutes at 375 degrees.