Print

Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers: Best Easy Tailgate Appetizer

air fryer jalapeno poppers - featured image
Print Recipe

These crispy bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers are the ultimate tailgate appetizer, made quick and easy in the air fryer. Creamy, spicy, and irresistibly crunchy, they disappear in minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 medium fresh jalapeños
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 12 slices thick-cut bacon
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Optional: Ranch dressing or sour cream for dipping

Instructions

  1. Prep the jalapeños: Wash and dry jalapeños. Slice each in half lengthwise. Use a small spoon to scrape out seeds and white membranes. Wear gloves if sensitive.
  2. Make the filling: In a small bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of black pepper. Mix until smooth.
  3. Fill the peppers: Spoon or pipe the filling into each jalapeño half, mounding slightly above the edge. Do not overfill.
  4. Par-cook the bacon: Cut each bacon slice in half crosswise. Place in air fryer basket in a single layer and cook at 375°F for 3 minutes until partially cooked but still flexible. Drain on paper towels.
  5. Wrap the poppers: Wrap a piece of par-cooked bacon around each filled jalapeño half, overlapping ends on the bottom. Secure with a toothpick if needed.
  6. Air fry the poppers: Place wrapped poppers in air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook at 375°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until bacon is deep golden brown and crispy.
  7. Rest and serve: Let poppers rest on a paper towel-lined plate for 2 minutes. Serve warm with ranch or sour cream if desired.

Notes

Par-cooking the bacon is essential for even cooking. Do not overcrowd the air fryer; cook in batches if needed. For oven method, bake at 400°F on a wire rack over a baking sheet for 18-22 minutes, flipping once.

Nutrition

Keywords: bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers, air fryer jalapeño poppers, tailgate appetizer, game day snack, keto appetizer, low carb appetizer

Find it online: https://clunkcook.com/crispy-bacon-wrapped-jalape-n-o-poppers-best-easy-tailgate-appetizer/