Air Fryer Jalapeno Poppers
Halved jalapenos stuffed with a creamy cheddar-cream cheese filling and coated in crispy panko breadcrumbs, air fried until molten inside and crunchy outside. A classic game-day vegetarian appetizer with none of the deep-fryer mess.
Ingredients
- 12 fresh jalapenos, halved, seeded
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp kosher salt
- 2/3 cup panko breadcrumbs
- as needed neutral cooking spray
Instructions
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1
Slice 12 fresh jalapenos in half lengthwise and use a spoon to scrape out the seeds and membranes. The more membrane you remove, the milder the heat.
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2
In a bowl, beat together 8 oz softened cream cheese, 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp onion powder, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, and 1/4 tsp kosher salt until smooth and well combined.
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3
Spread the cheese filling generously into each jalapeno half, mounding it slightly.
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4
Spread 2/3 cup panko breadcrumbs on a plate. Press the filled side of each popper firmly into the panko so the crumbs stick. Spray the tops with neutral cooking spray.
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5
Preheat the air fryer to 375°F. Place poppers in the basket filling-side up in a single layer.
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6
Air fry at 375°F for 8-10 minutes until the panko is golden brown and the cheese filling is bubbling. Serve hot.