Tasty Keto Jalapeno Popper Bites Recipe
These Tasty Keto Jalapeno Popper Bites are a crunchy, cheesy snack perfect for anyone following a low-carb or keto lifestyle. Made with cream cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, spicy jalapenos, and crispy bacon bits, these bite-sized treats are coated in crushed pork rinds and air fried to golden perfection, offering a deliciously crisp exterior and gooey, flavorful interior.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 20-24 bites 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Keto
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese Mixture
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened to room temperature)
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 3 jalapenos (diced finely, about 1/4-inch pieces)
- 1/4 cup bacon bits (Oscar Mayer real bacon bits recommended)
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- Pinch of salt and pepper
Coating
- 1 tbsp heavy cream
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cups crushed pork rinds (finely crushed for best coating)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In a large bowl, thoroughly combine cream cheese, diced jalapenos, shredded Monterey Jack cheese, bacon bits, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper to create a well-mixed cheese filling.
- Preheat Air Fryer and Prepare Coating: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. Meanwhile, whisk together the eggs and heavy cream in one bowl. Place the finely crushed pork rinds in a separate bowl to use as the coating.
- Form and Coat the Cheese Bites: Scoop out portions of the cheese mixture using a small cookie scoop or tablespoon and roll each into a ball with your hands. Dip each ball into the egg and cream mixture until fully coated, then roll it in the crushed pork rinds until evenly covered. Arrange the coated bites on a parchment-lined baking tray and repeat until all mixture is used.
- Air Fry the Cheese Bites: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place the coated cheese bites in the basket without touching each other, and lightly spray the tops with cooking spray to enhance crispness. Air fry at 400°F for 12 minutes until golden and crispy.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cheese bites to cool in the air fryer basket for a few minutes to help them set and hold their shape. Serve warm for the best taste and enjoy the crispy, cheesy jalapeno popper bites.
Notes
- Ensure cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easier mixing and smoother texture.
- Finely dice jalapenos to evenly distribute heat and flavor.
- Use finely crushed pork rinds to get the crispiest coating.
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to allow even cooking and crisping.
- Let the bites cool slightly after air frying to firm up and avoid losing shape when serving.
- Can be served as an appetizer, snack, or party finger food.
Keywords: keto jalapeno popper bites, air fryer appetizers, low carb snacks, cheesy jalapeno bites, keto snacks, party appetizers, bacon jalapeno cheese balls
