Craving those addictive TGI Fridays jalapeno poppers but want a healthier, easier way to make them at home? This air fryer recipe delivers the same crispy, spicy goodness without the deep-frying mess and extra calories. Get ready for a flavor explosion that'll have you hooked!
What Makes These Air Fryer Jalapeno Poppers So Good?
The secret lies in a perfect balance of creamy filling and a perfectly crispy, golden-brown crust. We'll achieve this by using a combination of techniques:
- Air Fryer Magic: The air fryer creates that incredibly crispy exterior without needing a ton of oil.
- Cream Cheese Base: A rich and tangy cream cheese filling provides the perfect complement to the spicy jalapenos.
- Cheesy Goodness: We're adding extra cheddar cheese for a truly indulgent experience.
- Seasoning Perfection: A simple blend of spices enhances the flavor profile without overpowering the other ingredients.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1 pound jalapeno peppers, halved lengthwise and seeded
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1 tablespoon bacon bits (optional, but highly recommended!)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more, to taste)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Cooking spray
Instructions: Step-by-Step Guide to Air Fryer Perfection
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Prepare the Jalapenos: Carefully halve the jalapenos lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes. This will reduce the heat if you prefer a milder popper. If you like it extra spicy, leave some of the membranes in!
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Make the Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, cheddar cheese, green onions, bacon bits (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
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Stuff the Jalapenos: Generously fill each jalapeno half with the cream cheese mixture.
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Air Fryer Setup: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
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Air Fry the Poppers: Arrange the stuffed jalapenos in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding to ensure even cooking. Spray the tops of the poppers with a little more cooking spray.
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Cook Time: Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the jalapenos are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly. The cooking time may vary depending on your air fryer, so keep an eye on them.
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Serve and Enjoy: Remove the jalapeno poppers from the air fryer and serve immediately. They're delicious on their own or with your favorite dipping sauce, like ranch or sour cream.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the jalapeno poppers up to a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Just increase the air frying time slightly when you're ready to cook them.
What if I don't have an air fryer?
You can bake these in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. However, the air fryer will give you a crispier result.
Can I adjust the spice level?
Absolutely! If you prefer milder poppers, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper or omit it altogether. For extra heat, add more cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
What other cheeses can I use?
Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a blend of cheeses would also work well.
Can I freeze these?
It's best to avoid freezing stuffed jalapenos as the texture might change upon thawing. It's always better to make a fresh batch!
Enjoy your homemade TGI Fridays-inspired jalapeno poppers! Let me know in the comments how yours turn out.
