Keto Air Fryer Jalapeno Poppers Recipe

Jalapenos: Fresh green peppers that add a spicy kick to the dish.

Cream cheese: Softened to mix easily and provide a creamy texture.

Shredded cheddar cheese: Adds a rich, cheesy flavor to the filling.

Bacon: Cooked and crumbled to add a savory, crispy topping.

When preparing jalapenos for this recipe, consider wearing gloves to avoid irritation from the capsaicin in the peppers. To ensure even cooking, make sure the jalapeno poppers are placed in a single layer in the air fryer basket. This allows hot air to circulate around each popper, ensuring they cook evenly and the cheese melts perfectly.

• jalapenos - Substitute with mini bell peppers: Mini bell peppers provide a milder heat level while still offering a similar shape and texture for stuffing.

• cream cheese - Substitute with mascarpone cheese: Mascarpone cheese has a similar creamy texture and mild flavor, making it a good low-carb alternative.

• shredded cheddar cheese - Substitute with shredded mozzarella cheese: Mozzarella cheese melts well and has a mild flavor that complements the other ingredients.

• cooked and crumbled bacon - Substitute with cooked and crumbled turkey bacon: Turkey bacon is a leaner option that still provides a similar smoky flavor and crunchy texture.

• Allow the jalapeno poppers to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation from forming, which can make them soggy.
• Place the cooled jalapeno poppers in an airtight container. If stacking is necessary, separate layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking.
• Store the container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This keeps the cream cheese filling fresh and the bacon crispy.
• For freezing, arrange the cooled jalapeno poppers on a baking sheet in a single layer. Freeze them for about 1-2 hours, or until they are solid. This prevents them from sticking together.
• Once frozen, transfer the jalapeno poppers to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date to keep track of freshness.
• When ready to enjoy, reheat the frozen jalapeno poppers in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is bubbly.
• Alternatively, you can reheat them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes. This ensures the jalapenos are tender and the cheese is perfectly melted.

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the jalapeno poppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the jalapenos are heated through.

• Use your air fryer for a quick reheat. Set it to 350°F (175°C) and place the jalapeno poppers in a single layer in the basket. Air fry for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the jalapenos are warm.

• For a stovetop method, heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Place the jalapeno poppers in the skillet, cover with a lid, and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the jalapenos are heated through.

• Microwave for a quick and easy option. Place the jalapeno poppers on a microwave-safe plate. Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure the cheese is melted and the jalapenos are warm.

• Air fryer: This is the primary cooking device used to cook the jalapeno poppers to perfection, ensuring they are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

• Mixing bowl: Used to combine the softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese until well mixed.

• Spatula: Handy for mixing the cheeses together thoroughly.

• Spoon: Useful for filling each jalapeno half with the cheese mixture.

• Knife: Essential for halving and seeding the jalapenos.

• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for cutting and preparing the jalapenos.

• Measuring cup: Used to measure the shredded cheddar cheese accurately.

• Plate: To hold the cooked and crumbled bacon before topping the jalapenos.

• Tongs: Useful for placing the jalapeno poppers into the air fryer basket and removing them once cooked.

• Cooling rack: Allows the jalapeno poppers to cool slightly before serving.

Prepare the filling: Mix the cream cheese and cheddar cheese ahead of time and store it in the fridge. This way, you can quickly fill the jalapenos when you're ready to cook.

Pre-cook the bacon: Cook and crumble the bacon in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge so it's ready to sprinkle on the jalapeno poppers.

Use a piping bag: Transfer the cheese mixture into a piping bag for easy and mess-free filling of the jalapeno halves.

Batch cooking: If your air fryer is large enough, cook multiple batches at once to save time.