I’m a huge fan of jalapeño peppers. They’re flavorful, versatile, and so simple—the perfect summer side or appetizer! So here are my Bacon Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers—and they’re not your typical jalapeño popper. This recipe is a unique spin on the popper, and in my opinion way better! They’re filled with crushed strawberries, honey whipped feta, and wrapped with bacon—truly a perfect combo of savory and sweet that levels up the traditional jalapeño popper! 🥓🍓
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How to Make Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers
If you're looking for a spicy, savory, and sweet appetizer, these Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers are a must-try! They're perfect for game day, parties, or whenever you're craving a flavorful snack. Let’s make them!
Ingredients
- 6 Jalapeño or Anaheim Peppers
- 6 Ounces Feta Cheese
- 1 Tablespoon Garlic
- 2 Tablespoon Honey
- 1 Cup Strawberries
- 1 Tablespoon Vinegar
- 10 Strips Bacon
Step-By-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Jalapeños: Cut the jalapeños in half lengthwise and remove the stems, seeds, and membranes. The more membrane you leave, the spicier the jalapeños will be.
- Make the Honey Whipped Feta: In a food processor or blender, combine the feta cheese, 1 tablespoon of honey, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Prepare the Strawberry Filling: In a small bowl, mash the strawberries and add in the honey. Mash together until it has a jam-like consistency.
- Fill the Jalapeños: Fill each jalapeño half with a spoonful of the honey whipped feta mixture, and a spoonful of the strawberry mixture.
- Wrap with Bacon: Wrap each stuffed jalapeño half with a slice of bacon.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F.
- Cook the Poppers: Place the stuffed and wrapped jalapeños in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 13-15 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the peppers are tender. Feel free to cook them a little longer if you want the poppers even more crispy!
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove the jalapeño poppers from the air fryer and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them as a tasty appetizer or snack!
How To Cut Jalapeño Peppers
Start by washing the peppers! Then, slice the pepper in half lengthwise. To keep the filling inside, try to keep one edge of the pepper intact, creating a "boat" shape. If you have sensitive skin or cuts, wear gloves when handling jalapeños to avoid skin irritation from the pepper's oils!
Check out the recipe video on Instagram!
Substitute For Jalapeño Peppers
If you're looking to reduce the spiciness of your bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers, consider using milder peppers such as Anaheim peppers, poblano peppers, or even sweet bell peppers. These varieties offer a more subtle heat, allowing you to enjoy the flavors of the dish without the intense spice!
How to Air Fry Frozen Jalapeño Poppers?
If you’re looking to make these ahead of time and reheat—here’s how to do it!
To freeze these poppers, arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and place them in the freezer until they are firm. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, and store them for up to 2-3 months.
When ready to cook, preheat your air fryer to 375°F. Place the frozen poppers in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Air fry for 15-20 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the filling is heated through. Enjoy them as a delicious snack or appetizer straight from the air fryer!
Fun Jalapeño Popper Alternatives & Variations
Hawaiian Jalapeño Poppers! Replace the strawberries with pineapple, add the honey whipped feta, then wrap with bacon and air fry as usual. Garnish with chopped pineapple or a sprinkle of coconut flakes before serving!
Buffalo Chicken Jalapeño Poppers! Mix cooked, shredded chicken with buffalo sauce and greek yogurt. Fill the jalapeño halves with the buffalo chicken mixture. Wrap with bacon and air fry as usual!
Greek-Inspired Jalapeño Poppers! Fill the jalapeño halves with a mixture of the honey whipped feta cheese, chopped olives, and sun-dried tomatoes. Wrap with bacon and air fry as usual. Serve with tzatziki sauce for dipping.
Frequently Asked Questions
Cook the jalapeño poppers in the air fryer at 375°F for 13-15 minutes, or until the bacon is cooked to your liking.
Yes, they can be spicy depending on the jalapeños, but the sweetness of the strawberries and honey definitely helps balance the heat.
To reduce the spiciness, you can remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeños or use milder peppers.
Jalapeño peppers are known for their medium level of spiciness, but they can vary in heat! The heat of a jalapeño pepper is often described as a pleasant, manageable spiciness that adds flavor and depth to dishes. Although if you’re really sensitive to spice, I’d suggest using one of the pepper choices above!
Yes, you can bake them in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 20-25 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy.
Yes, these poppers are a gluten-free appetizer option.
Yes, you can assemble them ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to air fry. You can also prep and freeze them—I share how to do that in a section above.
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Enjoy!
These Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers are sure to be a hit with your family and friends. They're easy to make, full of flavor, and the perfect combination of spicy, savory, and sweet. Try them out for your next gathering and watch them disappear! 🍓🥓
Have the sweetest day & tag me on Instagram when you make this recipe! @entirelyemmy
Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers
Ingredients
Method
- Cut the jalapeños in half lengthwise and remove the stems, seeds, and membranes.
- In a food processor or blender, combine the feta, 1 tablespoon of honey, garlic, and salt & pepper to taste to make the honey whipped feta.
- In a small bowl, mash the strawberries and add in the honey. Mash together until it has a jam-like consistency.
- Preheat the air fryer to 375℉.
- Fill each jalapeño half with a spoonful of the honey whipped feta mixture, and a spoonful of the strawberry mixture. Wrap each stuffed jalapeño half with a slice of bacon.
- Place the stuffed and wrapped jalapeños in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 13-15 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the peppers are tender.
- Remove the jalapeño poppers from the air fryer and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them as a tasty appetizer or snack!
Nancy says
Such a fun and unique variation…we loved them!