Jalapeño Poppers

Jalapeño Poppers are the ultimate appetizer: spicy, creamy, crispy, and packed with flavor. These savory bites feature fresh jalapeño peppers stuffed with a rich cheese mixture, then baked or fried to perfection. Whether served at a game day party, holiday gathering, or as a snack, they’re always a hit and can be made with a variety of flavorful twists.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect balance of heat and creamy richness
• Can be baked, fried, or grilled
• Easily customizable with different cheeses, meats, or seasonings
• Make-ahead friendly for entertaining
• A crowd-pleasing finger food for any occasion

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• fresh jalapeño peppers
• cream cheese, softened
• shredded cheddar cheese
• garlic powder
• salt
• cooked and crumbled bacon (optional)
• green onions or chives, finely chopped
• panko breadcrumbs (optional, for topping or coating)
• melted butter (if baking with breadcrumbs)

Directions

this recipe

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) if baking. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the peppers: Wearing gloves, slice jalapeños in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds and membranes.
3. Make the filling: In a bowl, mix cream cheese, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, salt, bacon (if using), and green onions. Stir until well combined.
4. Fill the jalapeños with the cheese mixture using a spoon or piping bag.
5. Add breadcrumbs: Mix panko with melted butter and sprinkle over the filled jalapeños if baking.
6. Bake for 18–22 minutes until the tops are golden and bubbly. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
   Optional: For fried poppers, coat in flour, dip in egg, then coat in breadcrumbs and deep-fry until golden.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12 poppers (about 6 jalapeños halved)
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Bacon-wrapped: Wrap each filled jalapeño with a strip of bacon before baking or grilling.
• Grilled version: Cook over medium heat until jalapeños are tender and filling is bubbling.
• Vegetarian: Skip the bacon and use more herbs or finely chopped vegetables.
• Extra spicy: Leave some seeds in or add hot sauce to the cheese mixture.
• Sweeter option: Use mini sweet peppers for a non-spicy, kid-friendly version.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10–12 minutes or air fryer for 5–6 minutes until hot and crispy.
• Freeze unbaked stuffed jalapeños, then bake from frozen adding 5–7 minutes to the cook time.

FAQs

Can I make Jalapeño Poppers ahead of time?

Yes, assemble them ahead and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.

How spicy are jalapeño poppers?

They’re mildly spicy. Removing the seeds and membranes reduces heat significantly.

Can I use a different cheese?

Absolutely. Try Monterey Jack, mozzarella, pepper jack, or even goat cheese.

What’s the best way to keep them crispy?

Use breadcrumbs on top when baking or deep-fry them for a crunchy exterior.

Are they gluten-free?

Yes, if you skip breadcrumbs or use a gluten-free alternative.

Can I air fry Jalapeño Poppers?

Yes, air fry at 375°F for about 10–12 minutes until crispy and golden.

What’s the best dipping sauce?

Ranch dressing, sour cream, or a creamy chipotle dip pairs perfectly.

How do I store leftovers?

Keep them in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat in the oven or air fryer.

Can I grill them?

Yes, grilling adds smoky flavor. Use indirect heat and cook until tender.

Can I make them less spicy?

Yes, use mini sweet peppers or remove all seeds and soak jalapeños in cold water before stuffing.

Conclusion

Jalapeño Poppers are a flavorful and fun appetizer that brings the heat in the best way. With their creamy, cheesy filling and optional crispy topping or bacon wrap, they’re versatile and always a hit. Customize them to your taste, make them ahead, or whip them up fresh for your next party or casual get-together.

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