Cheesy Jalapeño Shortbread Poppers Recipe
These Irresistibly Cheesy Jalapeño Shortbreads are spicy, creamy, and perfectly crispy air-fried jalapeño poppers. Filled with a savory blend of cream cheese and cheddar, topped with crunchy breadcrumbs and optional bacon, they make an addictive appetizer or snack that's quick to prepare and full of bold flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 jalapeño poppers (4 peppers halved)
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
For the Poppers
- 4 pieces Fresh Jalapeño Peppers, halved and deseeded
- 8 oz Neufchâtel Cream Cheese (lower-fat option)
- 1 cup Cheddar Cheese, shredded (pepper jack can be substituted for extra kick)
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (or fresh minced garlic)
For the Topping
- 1 cup Panko Bread Crumbs
- 4 slices Bacon, chopped (optional, turkey bacon can be used)
Instructions
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) to ensure even cooking and a crispy finish for the poppers.
- Prepare the Jalapeños: Halve each jalapeño pepper lengthwise and carefully remove the seeds and membranes to reduce heat if desired. Set them aside on a plate.
- Make the Cheese Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the Neufchâtel cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, and garlic powder. Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are well blended and smooth.
- Stuff the Jalapeños: Generously fill each jalapeño half with the prepared cheese mixture, ensuring each is well-packed.
- Add the Topping: Sprinkle panko breadcrumbs evenly over the cheese-filled jalapeños. If using bacon, scatter chopped bacon pieces on top for extra flavor and crispiness.
- Arrange in the Air Fryer: Place the stuffed jalapeño halves in a single layer inside the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overlapping for uniform cooking.
- Air Fry: Cook for 8-10 minutes at 380°F, or until the breadcrumb topping turns golden brown and crispy and the cheese filling is bubbling slightly.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the jalapeño poppers from the air fryer and allow them to cool for 5 minutes. Serve warm as a delicious appetizer or snack.
Notes
- Use Neufchâtel cheese as a lower-fat alternative to regular cream cheese for a healthier option.
- For extra heat, substitute cheddar with pepper jack cheese.
- If you prefer less spice, remove all seeds and membranes from the jalapeños.
- Bacon is optional but adds an excellent smoky flavor; turkey bacon is a lighter substitute.
- Panko breadcrumbs provide optimal crispiness compared to regular breadcrumbs.
- Ensure the jalapeños are arranged in a single layer in the air fryer for even cooking.
