Air-Fryer Pepper Poppers

Total Time

Prep: 20 min. Cook: 15 min./batch

Makes

about 2 dozen

Updated: Apr. 24, 2022
These creamy stuffed jalapenos have some bite. They may be the most popular treats I make! My husband is always hinting that I should make a batch. —Lisa Byington, Johnson City, New York
Air-Fryer Pepper Poppers Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Ingredients

  • 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
  • 3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 3/4 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 6 bacon strips, cooked and crumbled
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 pound fresh jalapenos, halved lengthwise and seeded
  • 1/2 cup dry bread crumbs
  • Optional: Sour cream, French onion dip and ranch salad dressing

Directions

  1. Preheat air fryer to 325°. In a large bowl, combine the cheeses, bacon and seasonings; mix well. Spoon 1-1/2 to 2 tablespoons into each pepper half. Roll in bread crumbs.
  2. Spritz fryer basket with cooking spray. Working in batches if needed, place poppers in a single layer in basket. Cook until cheese is melted and heated through, 15-20 minutes. If desired, serve with sour cream, dip or dressing.

Test Kitchen tip
  • In our testing, we have found cook times vary dramatically between brands of air fryers. As a result, we have given wider than normal ranges on suggested cook times. Begin checking at the first time listed and adjust as needed.
  • Nutrition Facts

    1 stuffed pepper half: 81 calories, 6g fat (4g saturated fat), 18mg cholesterol, 145mg sodium, 3g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 3g protein.