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Air Fryer Jalapeno Popper Bites with Bacon Ranch Dip

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These air fryer jalapeno popper bites are a quick, cheesy, and spicy party snack, paired with a smoky bacon ranch dip. Perfect for game day, potlucks, or any gathering, they deliver all the classic popper flavor in easy, bite-sized form.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 medium fresh jalapenos, seeds removed and finely diced
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • Oil spray (avocado or neutral oil)
  • For the Bacon Ranch Dip:
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 packet (about 3 tbsp) dry ranch seasoning
  • 2 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
  • 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or chives

Instructions

  1. Dice jalapenos (remove seeds for less heat) and cook bacon until crisp, then crumble.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, cheddar, jalapenos, bacon, green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
  3. Set up breading station: place flour in one bowl, beaten eggs in another, and panko breadcrumbs in a third.
  4. Scoop about 1 tablespoon of cheese mixture and roll into balls (about 24 bites).
  5. Roll each ball in flour, dip in beaten egg, then coat in panko breadcrumbs. Place on a tray.
  6. Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
  7. Lightly spray air fryer basket with oil. Arrange bites in a single layer, leaving space between each. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, shaking halfway, until golden brown and crisp. Work in batches if needed.
  8. While bites cook, mix sour cream, mayonnaise, ranch seasoning, crumbled bacon, and parsley in a small bowl for the dip. Chill until serving.
  9. Let bites cool for 2-3 minutes before serving. Serve warm with bacon ranch dip.

Notes

For gluten-free, use gluten-free panko and flour. For vegetarian, use plant-based bacon. To reduce heat, substitute bell peppers for some jalapenos. Chill filling before rolling for easier shaping. Do not overcrowd air fryer; cook in batches for best crispiness. Dip leftovers are great with veggies or fries. Bites can be frozen before cooking; add 2 minutes to air fryer time from frozen.

Nutrition

Keywords: air fryer, jalapeno popper, party snack, bacon ranch dip, appetizer, game day, easy, spicy, cheesy, finger food

Find it online: https://bitefuljoy.com/air-fryer-jalapeno-popper-bites-recipe-with-bacon-ranch-dip-easy-party-snack/