Air Fryer Stuffed Jalapeños

Directions:

1. Prepare the Jalapeños:

Start by washing the jalapeños and slicing them in half lengthwise. Use a spoon or small knife to carefully remove the seeds and membranes. If you want to reduce the heat, be sure to remove as many seeds and membrane as possible, since these parts of the jalapeño contain most of the spice. For a spicier version, you can leave some of the seeds in.

2. Make the Filling:

In a medium-sized bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. For extra flavor, you can also add some cooked and crumbled bacon, sausage, or even some diced vegetables like onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms. If you prefer an extra creamy filling, mix in 1-2 tablespoons of sour cream. Stir everything together until it’s well combined.

3. Stuff the Jalapeños:

Spoon the cream cheese mixture into each jalapeño half. Be generous with the filling, pressing it in slightly to make sure each pepper is fully stuffed. The cheese mixture should mound a little above the pepper’s surface.

4. Preheat the Air Fryer:

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes. Preheating helps to ensure an even cook, and your stuffed jalapeños will crisp up nicely in the air fryer.

5. Air Fry the Stuffed Jalapeños:

Once the air fryer is preheated, lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil to prevent sticking. Place the stuffed jalapeños in the basket, making sure they are arranged in a single layer. If needed, you can cook them in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.

Air fry the jalapeños at 375°F (190°C) for about 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the jalapeños are tender and slightly crispy around the edges. If you like them extra crispy, you can air fry for an additional 1-2 minutes.

6. Serve and Garnish:

Once the stuffed jalapeños are done, remove them from the air fryer and let them cool for a minute or two. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately while they’re warm and enjoy the spicy, cheesy goodness!

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Stuffed Jalapeños:

• Handle with Care: When working with jalapeños, be careful not to touch your face, especially your eyes, after handling them. If you want to protect your hands, consider wearing gloves while slicing the peppers and removing the seeds.
• Make Them Ahead: You can prepare the stuffed jalapeños in advance and refrigerate them until you’re ready to cook. Just air fry them directly from the fridge, but you may need to add a minute or two to the cook time.
• Adjust the Spice Level: If you want to reduce the heat, remove as many seeds and membranes as possible. If you want more heat, leave some seeds inside or use hotter peppers like serranos.
• Use a Variety of Cheeses: While cheddar is a classic choice, feel free to get creative with your cheese selection. Try adding a bit of cream cheese, mozzarella, or even a tangy goat cheese for a different twist.
• Add Toppings: After air frying, you can drizzle your stuffed jalapeños with a little ranch dressing, sour cream, or salsa for an extra burst of flavor. You can also sprinkle some crispy fried onions or crumbled tortilla chips on top for added crunch.

Variations:

• Bacon-Wrapped Stuffed Jalapeños: For an even more indulgent treat, wrap each stuffed jalapeño with a slice of bacon before air frying. The bacon crisps up beautifully, adding a smoky flavor that complements the cheesy filling.
• Vegetarian Stuffed Jalapeños: Skip the bacon or sausage, and stuff the peppers with a mix of black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and a sprinkle of taco seasoning for a vegetarian-friendly option. Top with some crumbled feta or cotija cheese.
• Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Jalapeños: Add some shredded cooked chicken tossed in buffalo sauce to the cheese mixture for a spicy, tangy twist on the traditional stuffed jalapeños.

Nutritional Benefits of Stuffed Jalapeños:

• Low in Carbs: If you’re following a low-carb or keto diet, stuffed jalapeños are a great option. You can enjoy the flavors of a rich, cheesy snack without the heavy carbs found in many traditional appetizers.
• Packed with Nutrients: Jalapeños are a good source of vitamin C, and they also contain capsaicin, the compound responsible for their heat, which has been linked to various health benefits, including boosting metabolism and improving heart health.
• Protein and Healthy Fats: Adding bacon, sausage, or cheese to your stuffed jalapeños gives you a boost of protein and healthy fats, making them a satisfying snack that can keep you full for longer.

Conclusion:

Air Fryer Stuffed Jalapeños are the perfect combination of spicy, cheesy, and savory in one bite-sized treat. Whether you’re hosting a party, making a quick appetizer for family and friends, or just indulging in a flavorful snack, these stuffed peppers are sure to hit the spot. The air fryer makes them quicker and healthier than deep-frying, while still giving you that crispy, golden finish.

So, grab a handful of jalapeños, stuff them with your favorite filling, and let the air fryer work its magic. Get ready for a burst of flavor that’s perfectly balanced, cheesy, and oh-so-delicious! Enjoy!