Spicy Air Fryer Jalapeno Bacon Wrapped Poppers

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Get ready for a flavor explosion! These Spicy Air Fryer Jalapeno Bacon Wrapped Poppers are the ultimate crowd-pleaser—crispy bacon, creamy cheese filling, and a spicy jalapeno kick, all perfectly cooked in the air fryer. Whether you’re gearing up for a game day snack, a fun party appetizer, or a cozy night in, these poppers will steal the show. Plus, they come together so easily, you’ll be making them on repeat!

This recipe is also perfect for St. Patrick’s Day gatherings, offering a festive green hue from the jalapenos while keeping things bold and flavorful. Celebrate with a dish that’s both eye-catching and delicious—what better way to bring people together than with bacon-wrapped perfection?

Ingredients:

12 fresh jalapenos, halved and seeds removed
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 tsp garlic powder
24 slices of bacon (thin cut works best)
Optional: 1/2 tsp smoked paprika for extra flavor

Instructions:

Prep the Jalapenos: Cut the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes. The more seeds you leave, the spicier they’ll be!
Make the Cheese Filling: In a bowl, mix softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, and smoked paprika until well combined.
Stuff the Jalapenos: Fill each jalapeno half with the cheese mixture, pressing gently to ensure even coverage.
Wrap with Bacon: Wrap each stuffed jalapeno with a slice of bacon, securing the ends by tucking them under or using toothpicks.
Air Fry: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3 minutes. Place the bacon-wrapped jalapenos in a single layer in the basket, avoiding overlap. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the bacon is crispy and golden brown.
Cool and Serve: Let the poppers cool for a minute before serving—if you can wait that long!

Pro Tip:

For a keto-friendly twist, ensure the bacon and cheese are low-carb options. Skip the cheddar and use sharp parmesan for an extra-savory bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

Perfectly Crispy Bacon: The air fryer works magic, giving you evenly cooked, golden bacon with minimal effort.
Ideal for Entertaining: A finger food favorite, these poppers disappear fast at parties!
Endless Flavor Options: Swap out cheddar for mozzarella or pepper jack for a new twist.
Quick & Easy: Ready in under 20 minutes with minimal prep—yes, please!

Serving Ideas:

These spicy poppers pair beautifully with cool ranch dip or a tangy BBQ sauce for balance. Serve them alongside other game day favorites like Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Scallops or Bacon Wrapped Shrimp for a full platter of irresistible bites.

Imagine This:

A wooden serving tray lined with parchment paper, piled high with golden bacon-wrapped jalapeno poppers. The bacon is perfectly crisp, the cheese just slightly oozing from the sides. A small bowl of ranch dressing sits nearby with a few jalapenos still whole, sliced open just slightly to show the spicy seeds. The cozy glow of kitchen lighting makes the whole setup feel warm and inviting, perfect for a festive gathering.

Bring this scene to life:

Use a neutral-toned wooden tray to create a rustic vibe. Arrange the poppers in a slightly scattered way for a natural look. For garnish, add a few sliced jalapenos and some fresh parsley to bring out the green and give a festive pop of color. Keep the lighting warm and slightly dim for a cozy, inviting feel.