Go Back
+ servings
Air Fryer Jalapeño Popper Bites

Air Fryer Jalapeño Popper Bites

No ratings yet
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 24 Servings

Description

Cooking Jalapeño Popper Bites in an air fryer is a fantastic way to enjoy a classic appetizer with a crispy texture and less oil. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making these spicy, cheesy treats:

Ingredients 

  • 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded, plus more for topping
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt, divided
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper, divided
  • 10 oz cream cheese
  • 4 strips bacon, cooked and chopped
  • 4 jalapeñoes, seeded, diced, plus 24 sliced for topping

Instructions

  • Prepare the Breadcrumb Mixture: In a large bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, shredded cheddar cheese, eggs, ½ teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of pepper. Stir these ingredients until they are well combined, creating a cohesive mixture.
  • Form the Bases: Spray a muffin tin with nonstick cooking spray. Take a heaping tablespoon of the breadcrumb mixture and place it into each muffin cup. Firmly press the mixture into the pan to create a well in the center of each cup. This will form the base of your jalapeño bites.
  • Mix the Filling: In another large bowl, combine the cream cheese, cooked and crumbled bacon, diced jalapeños, the remaining ½ teaspoon of salt, and the remaining ½ teaspoon of pepper. Mix these ingredients thoroughly to ensure a consistent flavor throughout.
  • Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 340°F. Let it preheat, which ensures that your jalapeño bites will cook evenly and achieve a nice texture.
  • Assemble the Jalapeño Bites: Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the cream cheese mixture into each breadcrumb-lined cup in your muffin tin. Make sure the filling is evenly distributed. Then, sprinkle a bit more shredded cheddar cheese on top of each filled cup, and add a slice of jalapeño to the top for an extra kick.
  • Cook in the Air Fryer: Carefully place the muffin tin in the air fryer. Bake the jalapeño bites for 5-10 minutes. Keep an eye on them and remove them once the tops are golden brown and the cheese has melted.
  • Serve and Enjoy: Once done, let the jalapeño bites cool for a few minutes before removing them from the muffin tin. Serve warm as a deliciously spicy and cheesy snack or appetizer.

Equipment

  • Muffin Liners, or Silicone Liners
  • Cooking Spray

Notes

  • Handling Jalapeños: If you have sensitive skin, consider wearing gloves when handling jalapeños to avoid irritation.
  • Breading: Ensure the poppers are well-coated with breadcrumbs for the best texture.
  • Avoid Overcrowding: Cook in batches if needed to allow proper air circulation for even crisping.
  • Serving Suggestions: Pair these poppers with ranch dressing, blue cheese dip, or your favorite dipping sauce.

Nutrition

Serving: 1ServingCalories: 122kcalCarbohydrates: 5gProtein: 5gFat: 9gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gTrans Fat: 0.01gCholesterol: 39mgSodium: 304mgPotassium: 52mgFiber: 0.3gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 320IUVitamin C: 0.3mgCalcium: 91mgIron: 0.4mg