Introducing a mouthwatering twist to the classic jalapeno poppers – our Air Fryer Jalapeno Poppers No Bacon recipe! Crispy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, this delightful snack is perfect for those looking to savor the essence of jalapeno poppers without the bacon. Harnessing the power of the air fryer, we’ve created a healthier alternative that doesn’t compromise on taste. Get ready to embark on a culinary journey where every bite delivers a satisfying crunch and a burst of creamy, spicy goodness. Whether you’re a spice enthusiast or simply seeking a guilt-free indulgence, our Air Fryer Jalapeno Poppers No Bacon are sure to become a favorite on your snack repertoire. Join us as we explore the simplicity and deliciousness of this recipe, proving that you don’t need bacon to elevate the iconic jalapeno popper experience!
Why this recipe works?
This recipe proves to be a standout for a couple of key reasons. Firstly, the use of the air fryer plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect texture for the jalapeno poppers. The hot air crisps up the breadcrumb topping to perfection, maintaining the peppers’ ideal texture without risking overcooking. This meticulous approach ensures that the poppers retain their shape, offering a delightful bite that your guests can effortlessly pick up without any undesired floppiness.
Moreover, the innovative step of coating the panko breadcrumbs in butter before air frying adds an extra layer of excellence to the recipe. This not only amplifies the crispiness of the breadcrumbs but also imparts a visually appealing deep golden hue to the poppers as they undergo the air frying process. The careful consideration of these details elevates the overall experience, making these Air Fryer Jalapeno Poppers No Bacon a delectable and visually enticing treat for any occasion.
air fryer jalapeno poppers no bacon
These Jalapeno Poppers feature an irresistible and super flavorful creamy filling encased in a crunchy and buttery panko topping. Perfect for game day snacking, they can be assembled ahead and air-fried just before serving. Notably, this recipe boasts a no-bacon twist, providing a lighter yet equally satisfying snack option.
Recipe Details:
- Course: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 9 minutes
- Total Time: 19 minutes
- Servings: 10 bites
- Calories: 77kcal
Ingredients:
- 5 medium to large-sized jalapeno peppers
- 4 oz cream cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or Monterey jack)
- 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs, divided
- 2 tablespoons chopped onion
- 2 tablespoons chopped tomato
- 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Instructions:
- Prepare jalapeños:
- Slice each jalapeno in half lengthwise and use a spoon to remove the seeds and veins.
- Pro tip: Adjust spiciness by leaving some membrane intact for extra heat.
- Make the filling:
- In a bowl, combine cream cheese, shredded cheese, 1 tablespoon Panko breadcrumbs, chopped onion, tomato, cilantro, and salt.
- Make the topping:
- On a plate, mix 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and paprika until thoroughly combined.
- Fill and Cook:
- Spoon the cream cheese filling evenly into the jalapeños.
- Top with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F for 8 minutes. Once hot, place the stuffed jalapeños in the basket, spacing evenly.
- Cook for 6 to 8 minutes until the topping is golden brown.
Baking Instructions:
If an air fryer is not available, these delightful Air Fryer Jalapeno Poppers No Bacon can be easily baked in the oven. Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F, place the stuffed jalapenos on a baking sheet, and bake for 12 to 15 minutes until the top achieves a satisfying crispiness.
Helpful Tips:
- Choose medium to large-sized jalapeno peppers that are relatively uniform in size.
- Opt for a combination of cheddar, mozzarella, and Monterey jack cheeses instead of a Mexican cheese blend.
- For a flavor twist, use salsa in place of onion, tomato, and cilantro in the filling. Ensure proper draining and measure about 2 tablespoons for use.
- Make it gluten-free by using gluten-free Panko for the air fryer jalapeno poppers.
- If doubling the recipe, air fry in batches to prevent overcrowding.
- Using a 6-quart Instant Vortex air fryer allows for placing all the peppers in a single batch without over-crowding.
- For those sensitive to spicy peppers, it’s advisable to wear gloves when cutting.
How to Serve:
While these jalapeno poppers are fantastic straight from the air fryer, they can also be enjoyed with various dipping sauces like ranch dressing or spicy aioli. Perfect as a finger food, they make an excellent game day snack for gatherings with friends and family, especially when paired with other air fryer game day recipes.
Consider serving air fryer jalapeno poppers alongside dishes like baked chicken burgers or grilled chicken thighs to create a flavorful side for meals.
Make-Ahead Instructions:
Planning ahead? Assemble the jalapeno poppers following the recipe instructions. Once filled, arrange them on a baking sheet or tray, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate until ready to cook. Top with Panko and cook in a preheated 400-degree air fryer for 8 to 9 minutes when you’re ready to enjoy these delicious bites.
air fryer frozen jalapeno poppers
Enjoy the convenience of having these delectable Air Fryer Jalapeno Poppers No Bacon ready whenever you crave them by following these simple freezing instructions:
- Prepare the Jalapenos:
- Slice and prepare the jalapenos as per the recipe instructions.
- Fill each jalapeno half with the cream cheese filling and generously top them with Panko.
- Assemble and Freeze:
- Arrange the filled jalapenos on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer until solid.
- Once frozen, transfer the jalapeno poppers to a freezer bag or an airtight container for long-term storage.
- Cooking from Frozen:
- When ready to enjoy, there’s no need to thaw the frozen jalapeno poppers.
- Preheat the air fryer to 400 degrees.
- Place the frozen peppers directly into the preheated air fryer basket.
- Air fry for 10 to 12 minutes until they achieve a golden crispiness.
how to cook frozen jalapeno poppers in air fryer
Cooking frozen jalapeno poppers in the air fryer is a convenient and quick way to enjoy this tasty treat. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Ingredients:
- Frozen Jalapeno Poppers
Instructions:
- Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This step is crucial for achieving a crispy exterior.
- Arrange the Poppers:
- Take the frozen jalapeno poppers directly from the freezer. Arrange them in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded to allow for proper air circulation.
- Cooking Time:
- Air fry the frozen jalapeno poppers for 10 to 12 minutes. The exact time may vary depending on the size and brand of your air fryer, so it’s advisable to check them periodically.
- Flip or Shake (Optional):
- If desired, halfway through the cooking time, you can open the air fryer and flip the poppers or give the basket a shake. This helps ensure even cooking on all sides.
- Check for Crispiness:
- Towards the end of the cooking time, check the poppers for crispiness. If they need a bit more time to achieve the desired level of crunch, you can extend the cooking time by a few minutes.
- Serve Hot:
- Once the jalapeno poppers are golden brown and crispy, carefully remove them from the air fryer. Allow them to cool for a minute or two before serving.
- Enjoy with Dipping Sauce:
- Serve the hot and crispy frozen jalapeno poppers with your favorite dipping sauce, such as the Creamy Sriracha Dipping Sauce mentioned earlier.
Nutrition table
Here’s the nutritional information presented in a table format:
| Nutritional Information per Serving (1 Popper) | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 77 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 3g |
| Protein | 3g |
| Fat | 5g |
| Saturated Fat | 3g |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.3g |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 1g |
| Cholesterol | 15mg |
| Sodium | 128mg |
| Potassium | 46mg |
| Fiber | 0.3g |
| Sugar | 1g |
| Vitamin A | 268IU |
| Vitamin C | 2mg |
| Calcium | 81mg |
| Iron | 0.2mg |
Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands used in the recipe.
Creamy Sriracha Dipping Sauce
This Creamy Sriracha Dipping Sauce adds a delightful kick to your Air Fryer Jalapeno Poppers, complementing the cheesy and spicy flavors with a creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet note. Serve this sauce alongside your poppers, and it’s sure to elevate the overall taste experience!
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- 1 tablespoon Sriracha sauce (adjust to taste for desired spice level)
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1 teaspoon fresh lime juice
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
- In a Bowl: In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, Sriracha sauce, honey, fresh lime juice, and garlic powder.
- Whisk Until Smooth: Whisk the ingredients together until the sauce is smooth and well-incorporated.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the sauce and adjust the spice level with more Sriracha if desired. Season with salt and pepper to your liking.
- Chill: For optimal flavor, cover the bowl and let the sauce chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Garnish (Optional): Before serving, garnish with fresh chopped cilantro for an added burst of flavor.
FAQs
How long to heat up jalapeno poppers in the air fryer?
- The recommended time can vary, but generally around 5-8 minutes at 375°F (190°C) is a good starting point. Adjust based on your air fryer and personal preference.
What is the best way to cook frozen jalapeno poppers?
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C), place the frozen jalapeno poppers in a single layer, and air fry for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
How to cook jalapeno poppers in a Pampered Chef air fryer?
- Follow the same general guidelines for cooking jalapeno poppers in any air fryer. Adjust the temperature and time based on your specific air fryer model.
Should I flip jalapeno poppers?
- Yes, for even cooking, it’s recommended to flip the jalapeno poppers halfway through the cooking time.
Can you put aluminum foil in an air fryer?
- Yes, you can use aluminum foil in an air fryer, but make sure it doesn’t block the air vents. It’s often used to prevent certain foods from sticking.
Can you put parchment paper in an air fryer?
- Yes, parchment paper is safe to use in an air fryer. It helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier.
Is it better to use parchment paper or foil in an air fryer?
- Both can be used, but parchment paper is often preferred as it allows better air circulation. Foil may block airflow if not used carefully.
Can you put paper towel in the air fryer?
- It’s not recommended to put a dry paper towel directly in the air fryer, as it could catch fire. However, you can use a damp paper towel to cover certain foods.
Does foil block airflow in the air fryer?
- Yes, if not used properly, foil can block airflow in the air fryer. Ensure it’s crinkled or perforated to allow air circulation.
How do you cook real good jalapeno poppers?
- Follow a detailed recipe, ensuring the poppers are properly filled, coated, and air fried until golden and crispy.
What do jalapeno poppers go with?
- They pair well with dipping sauces like ranch dressing, sour cream, or a spicy aioli. They also make great companions to burgers, hot dogs, or as a party appetizer.
What do you dip jalapeno poppers in?
- Common dips include ranch dressing, sour cream, or a spicy aioli. Choose a dip that complements the spicy and cheesy flavors of the poppers.