Crispy Cream Cheese Jalapeño Poppers
Halved jalapeños stuffed with tangy cream cheese and sharp cheddar, then air-fried until the peppers blister and the filling melts. Ready in 15 minutes — the perfect spicy-creamy weeknight snack or appetizer.
- Total time
- 15 min
- Servings
- 4
- Calories
- 156
- Protein
- 7g
Ingredients
- 12 whole jalapeños
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¾ cup sharp cheddar, shredded
- ¼ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
Instructions
- 1
Halve each jalapeño lengthwise and scoop out the seeds and white ribs with a small spoon.
- 2
Mix cream cheese, cheddar, paprika, and a pinch of salt in a bowl until fully combined.
- 3
Spoon the cheese mixture into each jalapeño half, mounding it slightly in the center.
- 4
Toss panko with olive oil in a small bowl, then sprinkle a small pinch over each popper.
- 5
Arrange poppers cheese-side up in the air fryer basket. Cook at 400°F for 8 minutes until golden.
- 6
Let cool 2 minutes. Serve immediately with sour cream or ranch for dipping.
Tools you’ll need
- small spoon or melon baller
- mixing bowl
- air fryer basket
- air fryer (or sheet pan + 400°F oven for 12 minutes)
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