Cheesy Jalapeño Popper Shortbread Recipe
These Irresistibly Cheesy Jalapeño Shortbread poppers are a perfect blend of creamy cheese, spicy jalapeños, and crispy topping, air-fried to golden perfection. Ideal as a snack or appetizer, they combine rich cheddar and cream cheese filling with a crunchy breadcrumb and optional bacon topping, delivering a satisfying burst of flavor and texture in every bite.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 jalapeño halves (4 whole peppers)
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
For the Poppers
- 4 pieces fresh, firm Jalapeño Peppers
- 8 oz Neufchâtel Cream Cheese (for a lower-fat option)
- 1 cup Cheddar Cheese (can substitute with pepper jack for more kick)
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (fresh minced garlic can be used as an alternative)
For the Topping
- 1 cup Bread Crumbs (Panko works best)
- 4 slices Bacon (optional, can use turkey bacon)
Instructions
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C) to ensure even cooking and optimal crispiness for the jalapeño poppers.
- Prepare Jalapeños: Halve the jalapeño peppers lengthwise and carefully remove all the seeds and membranes to reduce the heat level and create space for the filling.
- Make Cheese Filling: In a bowl, combine the Neufchâtel cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, and garlic powder. Mix thoroughly until smooth and evenly blended.
- Fill Jalapeños: Spoon the cheese mixture generously into each jalapeño half, filling them completely to maximize flavor and creaminess.
- Add Topping: Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the filled jalapeños. If using, crumble cooked bacon over the top for extra texture and smoky flavor.
- Arrange in Air Fryer: Place the stuffed and topped jalapeño halves in a single layer inside the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overlapping to allow proper air circulation.
- Air Fry: Cook the jalapeño poppers in the preheated air fryer for 8-10 minutes until the breadcrumb topping is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Cool and Serve: Carefully remove the poppers from the air fryer and let them cool for about 5 minutes to set slightly before serving warm.
Notes
- For a spicier version, substitute cheddar with pepper jack cheese.
- Using Neufchâtel cheese reduces fat content without sacrificing creaminess.
- Panko breadcrumbs provide extra crunch compared to regular breadcrumbs.
- Bacon is optional but adds smoky flavor and crispy texture.
- Make sure to deseed the jalapeños thoroughly to control heat levels.
- Serving with a dipping sauce like ranch or sour cream complements the flavors well.
- Wear gloves when handling jalapeños to avoid irritation.
