Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers

Air fryer jalapeño poppers are an easy appetizer made with fresh jalapeños stuffed with a creamy cheddar and cream cheese filling, topped with crispy panko, and air fried until golden. They’re ready in about 20 minutes and work especially well for game day, parties, or any time you want a warm, cheesy appetizer without deep frying.

I like this version because the filling is simple and the air fryer gives the tops a nice crisp finish without making the peppers overly soft. Removing the seeds and white membranes keeps the heat more manageable, but you can leave a little behind if you like them spicier.

This has also become one of the more popular air fryer appetizers on Savory Sweet Spoon, and readers have mentioned how easy they are to make and how well the crispy topping works with the creamy filling.

If you’re putting together a spread of easy appetizers, Air Fryer Potato Skins are another good option to make alongside these.

Ingredient Notes

You’ll find the full measurements in the recipe card below, but here are a few things to know before you start.

Jalapeños: Choose medium-size peppers that are firm and smooth. Cutting them in half lengthwise makes them easy to fill and helps them cook evenly.

Cream cheese: Let it soften first so it mixes easily with the cheddar and garlic powder.

Cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar gives the filling more flavor, but mild cheddar also works.

Panko breadcrumbs: Panko gives the tops a lighter, crispier texture than regular breadcrumbs.

Cooking spray: A light spray over the panko helps it brown in the air fryer.

Please scroll ⬇️ to the recipe card for the full ingredient amounts and instructions.

Are Jalapeño Poppers Spicy?

They have some heat, but removing the seeds and white membranes makes them much milder.

If you want them less spicy, scrape out the membranes thoroughly. If you like more heat, leave a little of the membrane in a few of the peppers.

Wearing gloves while prepping the jalapeños is also helpful, especially if you’re sensitive to chili oils.

How to Make Jalapeño Poppers in the Air Fryer

Preheat the air fryer to 375°F.

Mix the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, and garlic powder until smooth.

Slice the jalapeños in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and white membranes with a spoon.

Fill each jalapeño half with the cheese mixture, then sprinkle panko over the top and press it down lightly so it sticks.

Lightly spray the tops with cooking oil, then arrange the poppers in a single layer in the air fryer basket.

Air fry for 8–12 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the tops are golden and crisp.

Can I Add Bacon?

Yes. There are two easy ways to add bacon to these jalapeño poppers.

For the easiest option, mix cooked, crumbled bacon into the cream cheese filling before stuffing the peppers. You can also save a little extra to sprinkle over the top after cooking.

For a bacon-wrapped version, fill the jalapeño halves, then wrap each one with a strip of bacon and secure it with a toothpick if needed. Skip the panko topping for this version. Air fry at 375°F until the bacon is cooked and crisp and the peppers are tender. Bacon-wrapped poppers may need a few extra minutes, so start checking around the usual cook time and add more time as needed.

Can I Use Mini Sweet Peppers?

Yes. Mini sweet peppers are a good option if you want a mild version without the heat from jalapeños.

Prepare them the same way by slicing them in half, removing the seeds, filling them, and topping with panko. Because sizes vary, start checking them toward the lower end of the cooking range.

Can I Make Them Ahead?

You can assemble the jalapeño poppers up to a day ahead and keep them covered in the refrigerator.

When you’re ready to cook, add the panko and cooking spray if you haven’t already, then air fry as directed. You may need an extra minute if they’re going into the air fryer very cold.

What to Serve With Jalapeño Poppers

These work well as part of an appetizer spread with [Air Fryer Potato Skins] and [Air Fryer Garlic Bread].

If you’re serving them before dinner, [Air Fryer Hamburgers] are an easy main dish that keeps the meal casual and works well for game day or a backyard dinner.

For dipping, ranch dressing is the easiest option and helps balance the heat from the jalapeños.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover jalapeño poppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheat them in the air fryer at 350°F for about 3–4 minutes, or until warmed through and crisp on top.

RECIPE