These air fryer bacon-wrapped jalapeños are a delicious and spicy appetizer that combines the heat of jalapeños with the savory flavor of crispy bacon. Perfect for parties or game day, they are easy to prepare and cook quickly in the air fryer.
The recipe allows for customization, so you can add cream cheese or other fillings to enhance the flavor. Enjoy these tasty bites as a crowd-pleasing snack or appetizer.
Preparation of Jalapeños
Start by selecting fresh jalapeños, which are essential for achieving the right balance of heat and flavor. Halve each jalapeño lengthwise and remove the seeds to control the spice level. This step is crucial for those who prefer a milder taste.
Once prepped, the jalapeños will be ready to be filled with a creamy mixture that complements their natural heat. The freshness of the jalapeños combined with the creamy filling creates a delightful contrast that will tantalize your taste buds.
Creating the Creamy Filling
The filling is where the magic happens. A blend of softened cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika brings a rich and savory flavor to the dish. Mixing these ingredients ensures that every bite is packed with taste.
Feel free to adjust the seasoning according to your preference. A pinch of salt and pepper can enhance the overall flavor profile, making the filling even more irresistible.
Wrapping with Bacon
Next comes the fun part—wrapping the jalapeños with bacon. Take a half slice of bacon and carefully wrap it around each stuffed jalapeño. The bacon not only adds a crispy texture but also infuses the jalapeños with a smoky flavor as it cooks.
If needed, secure the bacon with a toothpick to keep everything in place during cooking. This step is essential for ensuring that the bacon stays wrapped around the jalapeños, resulting in a perfect presentation.
Cooking in the Air Fryer
Preheating the air fryer is a key step that should not be overlooked. Set it to 375°F (190°C) for about five minutes. This ensures that the jalapeños cook evenly and the bacon crisps up beautifully.
Arrange the bacon-wrapped jalapeños in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cooking them for 8-10 minutes will yield perfectly crispy bacon and tender jalapeños, creating a mouthwatering appetizer.
Serving Suggestions
Once cooked, allow the jalapeños to cool slightly before serving. This brief cooling period helps the flavors settle and makes them easier to handle. Serve them warm, garnished with fresh herbs for an added touch of color and flavor.
Pair these delicious bites with a side of dipping sauce, such as ranch or a spicy aioli, to enhance the overall experience. The combination of flavors and textures will surely impress your guests and make for a delightful appetizer.
Perfect for Any Occasion
These bacon-wrapped jalapeños are not just a treat for the taste buds; they also make for an eye-catching presentation. The contrast of golden-brown bacon against the vibrant green jalapeños is sure to draw attention at any gathering.
Whether it’s a game day, a party, or a casual get-together, these crispy bites are a crowd-pleaser. Their ease of preparation and quick cooking time make them a go-to choice for any occasion.
Crispy Air Fryer Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeños
This recipe features fresh jalapeños stuffed with cream cheese and wrapped in crispy bacon, cooked to perfection in an air fryer. The preparation time is about 15 minutes, and the cooking time is around 10 minutes, making it a quick and satisfying dish.
Ingredients
- 10 fresh jalapeños, halved and seeded
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 10 slices of bacon, cut in half
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Toothpicks for securing (optional)
Instructions
- Prep the Jalapeños: Halve the jalapeños lengthwise and remove the seeds for less heat if desired.
- Make the Filling: In a bowl, mix the softened cream cheese with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Stuff the Jalapeños: Spoon the cream cheese mixture into each jalapeño half.
- Wrap with Bacon: Take a half slice of bacon and wrap it around each stuffed jalapeño. Secure with a toothpick if needed.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Cook: Place the bacon-wrapped jalapeños in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the jalapeños are tender.
- Serve: Remove from the air fryer and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm!
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 10 pieces
- Calories: 120kcal
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 2g