Jalapeño poppers are a beloved appetizer, combining the heat of jalapeños with the creamy richness of cheese. Using an air fryer can make these tasty treats easier to prepare and healthier to eat. In this beginner’s guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make delicious air fryer jalapeno poppers at home.
Why Choose an Air Fryer?
An air fryer uses hot air circulation to cook food, providing a crispy texture similar to frying but with significantly less oil. This method is perfect for making jalapeño poppers, ensuring they are crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside without the added fat from deep frying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before you start, gather the following ingredients:
- 10 fresh jalapeños
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- Cooking spray
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Jalapeños
Start by washing the jalapeños. Slice them in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes. If you prefer milder poppers, make sure to remove all the seeds and membranes, as they contain most of the heat.
2. Make the Cheese Filling
In a medium bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
3. Stuff the Jalapeños
Using a spoon, fill each jalapeño half with the cheese mixture. Be generous but make sure the filling is level with the edges of the jalapeños.
4. Bread the Jalapeños
Set up a breading station with three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs. Dip each stuffed jalapeño half first in flour, then in the beaten eggs, and finally in the panko breadcrumbs. Ensure each jalapeño is fully coated at each step for maximum crispiness.
5. Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes. Preheating ensures even cooking and crispiness.
6. Cook the Jalapeño Poppers
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place the breaded jalapeño poppers in a single layer in the basket, making sure they do not overlap. Lightly spray the tops of the poppers with cooking spray to help them brown.
Cook for 10-12 minutes or until the poppers are golden brown and crispy. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook them in batches.
7. Serve and Enjoy
Once cooked, carefully remove the jalapeño poppers from the air fryer and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve them warm with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch or sour cream.
Tips for Success
- Wear gloves: When handling jalapeños, consider wearing gloves to protect your hands from the capsaicin, which can cause a burning sensation.
- Adjust the heat: For spicier poppers, leave some of the seeds and membranes in the jalapeños. For milder poppers, remove them entirely.
- Experiment with fillings: Feel free to get creative with the cheese filling. Try adding bacon bits, green onions, or different types of cheese to suit your taste.
Conclusion
Making jalapeño poppers in an air fryer is a quick and healthier way to enjoy this classic appetizer. With a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a delicious and crowd-pleasing snack that’s perfect for any occasion. Give it a air fryer jalapeno poppers try and enjoy the perfect blend of heat, creaminess, and crunch
