Choose bright green jalapenos. Cut each in half using a sharp knife. Then with a spoon remove the veins and seeds from each half.
Wear gloves while doing this.
Now keep them aside.
Prepare the filling
Mix together cream cheese or vegan cream cheese or Greek (or plant-based) yogurt with grated cheddar cheese or vegan cheese, pepper, Italian seasoning, garlic powder and salt.
It is delicious so I did try a few tastes. ;)
Fill each half of the jalapeno with this filling. I took about 1 tbsp. filling for each half.
Air fried Jalapeno poppers
Line air fryer basket with parchment paper. I just use scissors to cut them to size.
Lay jalapeno poppers with topping side up. Keep space between them.
Air fry at 180C or 360F for about 6-8 minutes till the cheese is golden brown and the jalapeno poppers are done.
Carefully remove them onto a plate and serve hot. It is really delicious.
You can serve with a dip of choice.
Bake in Oven
Preheat oven at 425F. Bake for about 15 minutes at 425F till they are golden brown on top.
Notes
1. Choose fresh jalapenos and take out all veins and seeds carefully. If anything is left behind, it is super hot so be mindful. Also this does not relate to the recipe but wear gloves or your hands burn for hours. 2. Use a combination of cream cheese and grated cheese. I also have used garlic mayo in place of cream cheese and it tastes heavenly. 3. For a healthier version, use thick Greek yogurt or vegan yogurt in place of cream cheese. 4. Use any spices of choice though minced garlic/garlic powder and pepper are good enough by themselves too. 5. For a dairy free version, use vegan cream cheese in place of cream cheese and vegan cheese in place of regular cheese in the recipe. 6. For a crunchy top, you can use ½ cup seasoned Panko and sprinkle on top before air frying.7. You can add a bit of chopped bacon in the stuffing for a salty kick.