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- 12 large jalapeño peppers - 8 ounces cream cheese, softened - 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese - 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch) - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon onion powder - Salt and pepper to taste - 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro (optional for garnish) To make air fryer cheddar jalapeño poppers, gather these ingredients. The fresh jalapeños give a spicy kick. Cream cheese and cheddar blend for a rich filling. Breadcrumbs add crunch and texture. For flavor, garlic and onion powders work wonders. Don't forget salt and pepper to enhance taste. You can add cilantro for a fresh touch at the end. These ingredients come together to create a tasty treat. You can customize them, making them your own. With this list, you are ready to impress your friends and family. First, you need to preheat the air fryer. Set it to 375°F (190°C). This step helps cook the poppers evenly. While it's heating, let's prepare the jalapeños. Take 12 large jalapeño peppers and slice them in half lengthwise. Be careful to remove the seeds and membranes inside. This step reduces the heat and makes them more enjoyable. If you want to avoid hot pepper oils on your hands, wear gloves. Now, it's time to make the cheese mixture. In a mixing bowl, combine 8 ounces of softened cream cheese, 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything until smooth and creamy. Next, fill each jalapeño half with the cheese mixture. Use a spoon or a piping bag for a neat job. Make sure to fill them generously. This is where the flavor really starts to shine! For the cooking process, place the filled jalapeños in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Avoid overlapping to ensure they cook evenly. You might need to do this in batches. Air fry the poppers for 10-12 minutes. Check them often. You want them tender and the tops golden brown and crispy. Once done, carefully remove them from the air fryer. Let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your flavorful air fryer cheddar jalapeño poppers! - Choosing the right jalapeños: Pick large, firm jalapeños for the best results. Look for bright green ones without blemishes. They should feel heavy for their size, indicating freshness. - Using gloves for preparation: Always wear gloves when handling jalapeños. This prevents the spicy oils from burning your skin. If you touch your face or eyes, you may feel a sting. - Achieving the perfect crunch: Use panko breadcrumbs for a crispier topping. They help create a delightful crunch when air-fried. Make sure to coat the jalapeños evenly with breadcrumbs for the best texture. - Pairing with dips: Serve your poppers with creamy dips like ranch or sour cream. These cool dips balance the heat from the jalapeños. You can also try salsa or guacamole for extra flavor. - Ideal complementing dishes: Jalapeño poppers go well with grilled meats or tacos. They make a great appetizer at parties. You can also enjoy them with a refreshing salad for a light meal. {{image_2}} You can easily change up these poppers for more fun. Adding bacon gives them a great taste. Just cook the bacon until crispy, then chop it up. Mix it into your cheese filling. You will love the smoky flavor. Want to spice things up? You can add more peppers! Try using serrano or habanero for extra heat. Just chop them finely and mix them in. This will make your poppers fiery and exciting. If you need a gluten-free option, switch the breadcrumbs. You can use crushed cornflakes or ground almonds. Both give a nice crunch without gluten. For those who want a vegan version, try using vegan cream cheese. You can also use a firm vegan cheese that melts. This way, everyone can enjoy these tasty treats! After you enjoy your jalapeño poppers, let them cool. This helps to keep them fresh. Place them in an airtight container. Store them in the fridge for up to three days. Reheating is easy! Just pop them back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes. This warms them up and keeps them crispy. Want to save some poppers for later? Freezing is a great option. First, let the poppers cool completely. Then, place them on a baking sheet in a single layer. Freeze them for a few hours until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat them, no need to thaw! Just air fry the frozen poppers at 375°F (190°C) for about 12-15 minutes. Check to see if they are heated through and crispy. Enjoy your poppers anytime! Yes, you can use other cheeses. Cream cheese is great for texture. You might try pepper jack for extra spice. Mozzarella gives a nice stretch. Feel free to mix cheeses for fun flavors! Air fryer jalapeño poppers last about three to four days in the fridge. Store them in an airtight container. Reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to keep them crispy. Serve jalapeño poppers with dips like ranch or salsa. They pair well with guacamole too. For a meal, try them with tacos or nachos. They make a great party snack! You now know how to make tasty air fryer jalapeño poppers. Start with fresh ingredients like jalapeños, cream cheese, and sharp cheddar. Follow simple steps to prepare, fill, and cook them. Remember the tips for crunch and great flavor. You can even try variations to match your taste or diet. Storing and reheating leftovers is easy too. Enjoy this fun snack at your next gathering or meal. I hope you feel inspired to create these poppers and impress your guests!

Air Fryer Cheddar Jalapeño Poppers

Get ready to spice up your snack game with these Cheesy Fiery Jalapeño Poppers! This easy air fryer recipe combines creamy cheese and zesty jalapeños for a perfect blend of flavors and crunch. Just 15 minutes of prep time will have you on your way to enjoying these savory bites. Click through to discover the full recipe and impress your friends with this tasty treat that everyone will love!
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Ingredients
  

12 large jalapeño peppers

8 ounces cream cheese, softened

1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

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

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

Salt and pepper to taste

1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro (optional for garnish)

Instructions
 

Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).

    Slice the jalapeño peppers in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes. (Use gloves if desired to avoid chili burn on your hands.)

      In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well-combined.

        Using a spoon or a piping bag, fill each jalapeño half generously with the cheese mixture.

          Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over each filled jalapeño to create a crispy topping.

            Place the stuffed jalapeños in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they are not overlapping. You may need to do this in batches.

              Air fry for 10-12 minutes, or until the jalapeños are tender and the tops are golden brown and crispy.

                Once cooked, carefully remove the poppers from the air fryer and let them cool for a couple of minutes.

                  Optionally, garnish with chopped fresh cilantro before serving.

                    Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes | Servings: 4