High Protein Jalapẽno Poppers

Making a simple switch in this popular appetizer recipe, makes the High Protein Jalapeno Poppers healthier and still taste amazing!

 

Appetizers are likely my favorite food group; who doesn't love snacking; but, the calories can add up quickly! Traditional Jalapeno Poppers have a lot of fat and calories, but with a simple switch we can add a punch of protein that leaves you feeling less guilty having these high protein jalapeño poppers!

I absolutely love the jalapeno popper flavor combo, so if you have't already tried my Jalapeno Popper Cheese Ball or the popular Jalapeno Popper Grilled Cheese, be sure to check those out too!

Making this recipe in the air fryer saves a lot of time, but I am also sharing how to bake them as well.

I've been loving swapping out fatty ingredients with cottage cheese lately, and this Caprese Cottage Cheese Toast and these High Protein Vegetarian Stuffed Shells are two of my more popular recipes!

How to make High Protein Jalapeno Poppers:

**scroll down for full ingredients list and printable directions**

• Get all of the ingredients together and prepped:
  • chop the jalapeños in half, length-wise and set aside
  • cook the bacon, chop, and set aside
  • chop the green onions and set aside
• Make the filling: in a medium bowl add cottage cheese, colby jack cheese, onion powder, garlic powder, and mix well to combine.
• Add the filling to the jalapeno halves.

• Add the filled jalapeños to the air fryer (see below for oven baked directions), and close carefully. Cook part of the time.

• Open the basket and add the panko breadcrumbs and chopped bacon pieces, close and cook remaining time.
• Open the air fryer and carefully remove. Serve the high protein jalapeno poppers immediately.

How to make High Protein Jalapeno Poppers in the Oven:

**scroll down for full ingredients list and printable directions**

• Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F. Follow the directions to prep the poppers and fill the poppers. Place the poppers on a baking sheet, then place into the oven.
• Cook for 12 minutes then carefully remove from oven and top with breadcrumbs and bacon. Cook for 5 more minutes or until the crumbs are crispy. Serve the high protein jalapeno poppers immediately.

Can I freeze high protein jalapeno poppers?

I don't recommend it because the cottage cheese tends to hold some water and they tend to get a little soggy when frozen and defrosted. I recommend making when needed.

Can I leave the bacon off the poppers?

Yes! Turn these high protein jalapeno poppers vegetarian by leaving off the bacon!

What is the nutritional information for these jalapeno poppers?

Nutritional information per high protein jalapeno popper per popper (half of a full jalapeno): 26 calories, 2g fat, 1g carbohydrates, 2g protein

What type of Air Fryer should I use for this recipe?

There are many Air Fryers to choose from, but I love my PowerXL Vortex Air fryer! Here are some other great options:

• Instant Vortex Plus Air Fryer Oven, 6 Quart: 6-in-1, Broil, Roast, Dehydrate, Bake, Non-stick and Dishwasher-Safe Basket, Stainless Steel
• COSORI Air Fryer 5.8QT - Large Hot Electric Oven Oilless Cooker with 8 Quick Setting Recommendation

Need other yummy appetizer ideas?! Check out these ideas from Domestic Superhero:

• Jalapeno Popper Cheese Ball
• Jalapeno Popper Bombs
• Everything Bagel Dip (3 ingredients)
• Jalapeno Popper Cheese Bread
• Caprese Stuffed Pull Apart Bread
• Million Layer Dip
• Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls