Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Jalapeño Poppers are the perfect combination of spicy, creamy, and crunchy that will tantalize your taste buds. These bite-sized appetizers are filled with a rich and cheesy mixture, , delivering a delightful contrast of textures and flavors. Whether you’re hosting a party, grilling outdoors, or just craving a savory snack, jalapeño poppers are a crowd-pleasing favorite. They’re easy to make, fully customizable, and can be served as a savory starter or a flavorful side to any meal.
Ingredients
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10 large jalapeños, halved and deseeded
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8 oz cream cheese, softened
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1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
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1/4 teaspoon onion powder
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Salt and pepper, to taste
- (Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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Prepare the jalapeños: Cut the jalapeños in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes. Wear gloves when handling jalapeños to avoid irritation from the oils.
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Make the filling: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until the ingredients are fully incorporated.
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Stuff the jalapeños: Spoon the cheese mixture into each jalapeño half, making sure they are generously filled.
- Serve: Remove the toothpicks (if used) and serve the jalapeño poppers hot. Optionally, garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or a squeeze of lime.
Servings and timing
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Servings: 5
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Prep time: 10 minutes
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Cook time: 20-25 minutes
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Total time: 30-35 minutes
Variations
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Spicy version: Add some chopped jalapeños or hot sauce to the cheese filling for an extra spicy kick.
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Cheese variations: Use a mix of cheeses like Monterey Jack, cream cheese, and pepper jack for a creamier and spicier filling.
- Grilled version: Instead of baking, you can grill the jalapeño poppers. Place them on a grill over medium heat for about 10-15 minutes until up and the cheese is melted.
Storage/Reheating
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Storage: Leftover jalapeño poppers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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Reheating: Reheat the poppers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave them for a quicker reheat, though lose some of its crispiness.
FAQs
Can I use a different kind of cheese for the filling?
Yes, you can swap the cheddar and Parmesan for other cheeses like Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or goat cheese to create a different flavor profile.
How do I make the jalapeños less spicy?
To reduce the heat, be sure to remove all the seeds and membranes from the jalapeños. If you prefer a milder flavor, opt for milder peppers like Anaheim or poblano peppers instead of jalapeños.
Can I make jalapeño poppers ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the poppers up to the point of baking, cover them with plastic wrap, and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking. Bake them when ready to serve.
Can I freeze jalapeño poppers?
Yes, you can freeze stuffed, Place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze them until firm. Then transfer them to a freezer bag or container. When ready to cook, bake directly from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes.
Are these poppers spicy?
Jalapeño poppers can be spicy depending on how much of the seeds and membranes you leave inside the peppers. If you want them milder, remove the seeds and membranes before stuffing.
How do I prevent the cheese from oozing out of the poppers while baking?
Make sure to stuff the jalapeños well, but don’t overfill them. You can also press the cheese mixture in firmly to reduce the chances of it oozing out during baking.
Can I serve these poppers with a dipping sauce?
Yes, jalapeño poppers pair wonderfully with dipping sauces such as ranch, blue cheese dressing, or even a spicy sriracha mayo.
Conclusion
Jalapeño Poppers are a flavorful and crowd-pleasing appetizer that everyone will love. With their spicy kick, creamy filling, and , they offer the perfect balance of heat and indulgence. Whether you’re making them for a party, game day, or simply a snack to enjoy with family, these poppers are sure to be a hit. Easy to make, customizable, and always delicious, they’ll quickly become your go-to appetizer recipe.
Jalapeño Poppers
Jalapeño Poppers are bite-sized appetizers filled with a rich and creamy cheese mixture, offering the perfect balance of spicy, cheesy, and crunchy flavors that will please any crowd.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 30-35 minutes
- Yield: 5 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 10 large jalapeños, halved and deseeded
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the jalapeños: Cut the jalapeños in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes. Wear gloves when handling jalapeños to avoid irritation from the oils.
- Make the filling: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until the ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Stuff the jalapeños: Spoon the cheese mixture into each jalapeño half, making sure they are generously filled.
- Serve: Remove the toothpicks (if used) and serve the jalapeño poppers hot. Optionally, garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or a squeeze of lime.
Notes
Spicy version: Add some chopped jalapeños or hot sauce to the cheese filling for an extra spicy kick.Cheese variations: Use a mix of cheeses like Monterey Jack, cream cheese, and pepper jack for a creamier and spicier filling.Grilled version: Grill the poppers instead of baking them for about 10-15 minutes until crispy and the cheese is melted.Storage: Leftover poppers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.Reheating: Reheat the poppers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or microwave for a quicker reheat (though they may lose some crispiness).
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 poppers
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 30mg