Description
Bring the heat to your party table with these irresistible Jalapeño Poppers. Each pepper is loaded with a rich cream cheese filling, studded with crispy bacon, and baked or air-fried until golden and bubbly. They’re the perfect balance of creamy, smoky, spicy, and crunchy—all in one bite-sized snack.
Ingredients
12 fresh jalapeños, halved lengthwise and seeds removed
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar or pepper jack cheese
6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
½ tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: 2 tbsp chopped green onions or chives
Optional Twists
Add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne to the filling
Wrap poppers in bacon instead of mixing it in
Use flavored cream cheese for extra variety (e.g., chive, jalapeño)
Instructions
Preheat Oven or Air Fryer
Oven: 400°F (200°C)
Air Fryer: 375°F (190°C)
Mix the Filling
In a bowl, combine cream cheese, shredded cheese, crumbled bacon, garlic powder, and green onions if using. Season with salt and pepper.
Stuff the Jalapeños
Spoon the filling into each jalapeño half, packing tightly and slightly mounding the top.
Bake or Air Fry
Oven: Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment. Bake 18–20 minutes until bubbly and lightly golden.
Air Fryer: Cook in batches for 8–10 minutes until crispy and browned.
Serve Hot
Garnish with more green onions or a drizzle of ranch if desired. Best enjoyed fresh and warm.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 90
- Fat: 8g
- Protein: 3g