These air fryer shrimp jalapeño poppers are a delightful appetizer that combines the heat of jalapeños with the savory flavor of shrimp and cream cheese. Perfect for parties or game day, they offer a crispy exterior and a creamy filling.
The recipe is simple and quick, making it easy to whip up a batch in no time. You can adjust the spice level by choosing milder or hotter jalapeños based on your preference.
Overview of Air Fryer Shrimp Jalapeño Poppers
Air fryer shrimp jalapeño poppers are a delightful fusion of flavors, combining the heat of jalapeños with the savory richness of shrimp and cream cheese.
This appetizer is perfect for gatherings, whether it’s a casual get-together or a lively game day. The crispy exterior contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling, making each bite a treat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To create these poppers, you’ll need a handful of key ingredients. Fresh jalapeños serve as the base, while cream cheese provides a rich and creamy texture.
Cooked shrimp adds a delightful seafood twist, and shredded cheddar cheese enhances the flavor profile. Spices like garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika bring depth to the filling.
For those who enjoy an extra crunch, breadcrumbs can be sprinkled on top before air frying.
Preparation Steps
Start by preheating your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Halve the jalapeños and carefully remove the seeds to control the heat level.
In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, chopped shrimp, and shredded cheddar cheese along with the spices. This mixture is what makes the poppers so irresistible.
Stuffing the Jalapeños
Generously fill each halved jalapeño with the creamy shrimp mixture.
If you opted for breadcrumbs, sprinkle them on top for that extra crunch. This step is optional, but it adds a delightful texture contrast to the creamy filling.
Cooking in the Air Fryer
Arrange the stuffed jalapeños in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Lightly spray them with cooking spray to promote browning.
Cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the poppers turn golden brown and crispy. The air fryer ensures they cook evenly while maintaining a delightful crunch.
Serving Suggestions
Once cooked, allow the poppers to cool slightly before serving.
These tasty bites pair wonderfully with a variety of dipping sauces. Whether you prefer a creamy ranch or a spicy salsa, the choice is yours.
Arrange them on a rustic wooden platter for an inviting presentation that will impress your guests.
Crispy Air Fryer Shrimp Jalapeño Poppers
These poppers are stuffed with a mixture of shrimp, cream cheese, and spices, then air-fried to perfection. The recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish and serves 4 people.
Ingredients
- 12 fresh jalapeños, halved and seeded
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup cooked shrimp, chopped
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional for extra crunch)
- Cooking spray
Instructions
- Prepare the Jalapeños: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Halve the jalapeños and remove the seeds.
- Make the Filling: In a bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, chopped shrimp, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Stuff the Jalapeños: Spoon the shrimp mixture into each jalapeño half, filling generously.
- Coat with Breadcrumbs: If using, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top of the stuffed jalapeños for added crunch.
- Air Fry the Poppers: Place the stuffed jalapeños in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Lightly spray with cooking spray. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until the poppers are golden and crispy.
- Serve: Remove from the air fryer and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 220kcal
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 8g