snacks & starters

By genfom.com

Air-Fried Jalapeño Poppers

Air-Fried Jalapeño Poppers are a spicy, cheesy snack that delivers bold flavor with a crispy coating. Perfect for game day, parties, or as a quick appetizer, these poppers balance the heat of jalapeños with the creaminess of a cheese filling and a satisfying crunch from the air fryer.


Recipe

Servings: 6 (2 poppers per serving)
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes

Ingredients:

  • 6 fresh jalapeños, halved and seeded
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko recommended)
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • 1/2 cup flour
  • Cooking spray

Instructions:

  1. Prepare Jalapeños: Slice jalapeños lengthwise and remove seeds and membranes. Be cautious to avoid touching your eyes.
  2. Make Filling: In a bowl, mix cream cheese, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
  3. Stuff Jalapeños: Spoon the cheese mixture into each jalapeño half, filling them generously.
  4. Coat the Poppers:
    • Place flour in one bowl, beaten egg in another, and breadcrumbs in a third bowl.
    • Dip each stuffed jalapeño into the flour, then the egg, and finally coat it with breadcrumbs.
  5. Air Fry: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the poppers in the air fryer basket in a single layer, spray lightly with cooking spray.
  6. Cook: Air fry for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
  7. Serve: Enjoy warm with ranch dressing or your favorite dipping sauce.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving):

  • Calories: 160
  • Protein: 6g
  • Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Fat: 10g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sodium: 220mg

Key Notes:

  1. Adjust Heat: Remove all seeds for a milder popper or leave some for extra heat.
  2. Bread Crumbs: For added flavor, use seasoned breadcrumbs or mix in Parmesan cheese.
  3. Make Ahead: Prep the jalapeños ahead of time and store them in the fridge until ready to air fry.
  4. Gluten-Free Option: Use almond flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs.
  5. Reheating: Reheat leftovers in the air fryer for 2-3 minutes to restore crispiness.

These Air-Fried Jalapeño Poppers are the perfect blend of spice, creaminess, and crunch!

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