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Jalapeño poppers have firmly established themselves as a beloved appetizer in American cuisine, captivating the taste buds of many with their tantalizing combination of heat and flavor. These bite-sized delights are filled with creamy cheese, enveloped in a crispy coating, and often served as a staple at parties, barbecues, and game-day gatherings. Their popularity is no surprise, given the delightful contrast between the spicy bite of jalapeños and the rich, smooth texture of cheese.

Air Fryer Cheddar Jalapeño Poppers

Discover the irresistible flavor of Spicy Crunchy Cheddar Jalapeño Poppers, the ultimate appetizer that combines creamy cheese and spicy jalapeños with a crispy coating. Perfect for any gathering or a casual snack, this easy recipe lets you adjust the spice level to your liking. With fresh ingredients and delightful textures, these poppers promise to impress your guests and satisfy cravings. Dive into a world of flavor and elevate your snacking experience!
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Ingredients
  

12 fresh jalapeño peppers

1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

4 oz cream cheese, softened

1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (for an extra crunch)

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 egg, beaten (optional, for enhanced breading adhesion)

Olive oil spray or cooking spray

Instructions
 

Prepare the Jalapeños: Begin by preheating your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). While the air fryer heats up, rinse the jalapeños thoroughly. Slice each pepper in half lengthwise and carefully scoop out the seeds and membranes with a small spoon to create space for the cheese filling. (Consider wearing gloves during this step to avoid irritation from the jalapeño oils!)

    Make the Filling: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and softened cream cheese. Add in the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. Blend all the ingredients together until the mixture is smooth, creamy, and well combined.

      Stuff the Jalapeños: Using a small spoon or a piping bag fitted with a wide tip, generously fill each jalapeño half with the prepared cheese mixture. Don’t hesitate to let the filling overflow slightly for an appealing presentation!

        Prepare for Air Frying: If you are using breadcrumbs for a crunchy exterior, you may wish to dip the stuffed jalapeños into the beaten egg (optional). This will help the breadcrumbs adhere better. Once dipped, either roll or sprinkle the top of each stuffed jalapeño with panko breadcrumbs to coat them.

          Air Fry: Lightly coat the poppers with olive oil or cooking spray to enhance browning. Arrange them in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded (you may need to cook in batches depending on your air fryer’s capacity). Air fry for about 10-12 minutes, or until the jalapeños are tender and the tops are beautifully golden brown.

            Cool and Serve: When the poppers are done cooking, carefully remove them from the air fryer and allow them to cool for a few minutes. Serve warm as a delightful appetizer or snack, and consider pairing them with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ranch dressing or sour cream, for an extra burst of flavor.

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 min | 25 min | 6 servings

                - Presentation Tips: Arrange the jalapeño poppers on a decorative platter and garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley for an attractive touch. Consider serving them alongside a colorful variety of dipping sauces for a fun and vibrant display.