Cheese-Stuffed Jalapeño Bites are a spicy and cheesy appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion. Fresh jalapeños are stuffed with a creamy cheese filling and air-fried to perfection, offering a crispy outside with a creamy, melty cheese interior. These bites are the ideal combination of heat and savory goodness, making them a crowd-pleasing treat. The air fryer ensures the jalapeños are perfectly crispy without the need for deep frying, making them a healthier option while still delivering all the delicious flavors.
Ingredients
- 12-14 large jalapeño peppers
- 4 oz (113g) cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs (for extra crispiness)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or cooking spray)
Instructions
- Prepare the Jalapeños:
Slice the jalapeños in half lengthwise, removing the seeds and membranes. If you prefer less heat, use a spoon to scrape out most of the seeds. Wear gloves to avoid irritation when handling the peppers. - Make the Cheese Filling:
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, shredded mozzarella, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined. - Stuff the Jalapeños:
Spoon the cheese mixture into the jalapeño halves, pressing it down slightly to ensure they are filled well. Once all the peppers are stuffed, sprinkle the panko breadcrumbs on top of each stuffed pepper for added crunch. - Preheat the Air Fryer:
Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes. - Air Fry the Jalapeños:
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil or cooking spray. Place the stuffed jalapeños in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes, or until the peppers are crispy on the outside and the cheese is bubbling and golden. - Serve:
Remove the cheese-stuffed jalapeño bites from the air fryer. Allow them to cool slightly before serving. They’re perfect with a cooling dip like sour cream or ranch dressing.
Time
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
- Total Time: 18-20 minutes
Serves
- Makes about 4-6 servings (depending on portion size).
Nutritional Breakdown (per serving, approximate)
- Calories: 160-180
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Sodium: 400mg
Key Notes
- Heat Level: The level of spiciness can vary based on the type of jalapeño used and how many seeds are left inside. For milder bites, remove all the seeds and membranes; for spicier bites, leave some in.
- Cheese Options: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, such as pepper jack for a spicier bite, or even goat cheese for a tangy flavor.
- Panko Breadcrumbs: The panko breadcrumbs give these bites a delightful crunch. If you prefer a gluten-free option, you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead.
- Dipping Sauces: These cheesy jalapeño bites pair wonderfully with ranch dressing, sour cream, or a simple squeeze of lime. For extra heat, try serving them with hot sauce or a spicy salsa.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply air fry at 350°F for 3-4 minutes to restore the crispiness.
- Make It Vegan: You can substitute the cream cheese and shredded cheese with vegan alternatives to make these bites vegan-friendly.
Cheese-Stuffed Jalapeño Bites are the ultimate balance of creamy, cheesy goodness with the perfect level of heat from the jalapeños. Whether you’re hosting a party or just want a quick and flavorful snack, these air-fried bites are sure to impress! Enjoy them with your favorite dip for the ultimate appetizer experience.