Jalapeño Poppers

Looking for the perfect spicy appetizer? Try these Jalapeño Poppers that are stuffed with creamy cream cheese, cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and flavorful seasonings. This easy recipe is a hit for parties, game day snacks, or family gatherings. The baked jalapeño poppers are crispy on the outside with a delicious, cheesy filling. They’re the perfect balance of spicy and creamy, making them an irresistible treat for anyone who loves bold flavors. You can even customize this recipe with different cheese variations, bacon alternatives, and toppings to suit your preferences. Whether you’re making these for a party or just craving a savory snack, these baked jalapeño poppers will surely impress your guests.

Ingredients:

• 12 jalapeños (about 4 inches long)
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 3 tablespoons sour cream (can substitute with mayo)
• 2 tablespoons chives, finely diced
• 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning (optional, but adds great flavor)
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• 4 strips cooked bacon, finely diced

Topping:

• ⅓ cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 tablespoon butter, melted
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions:

1. Prepare Ingredients:
   • Let the cream cheese come to room temperature.
   • Cook the bacon over low heat until crispy. Once cooled, chop it finely and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
2. Prepare the Jalapeños:
   • Important: Wear gloves to handle the jalapeños, as the capsaicin in the seeds and membranes can burn your skin and eyes.
   • Slice each jalapeño lengthwise, keeping the stem intact for presentation. Use a paring knife or small spoon to carefully remove the seeds and membrane. The more seeds you remove, the milder the poppers will be.
3. Make the Filling:
   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
   • In a bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, cheddar cheese, sour cream, chives, ranch seasoning, garlic powder, and bacon. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
4. Stuff the Jalapeños:
   • Use a spoon or butter spreader to fill each jalapeño with the cream cheese mixture, smoothing the tops.
5. Prepare the Topping:
   • In a separate bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and garlic powder.
   • Dip the filled jalapeños into the breadcrumbs, filling-side down, for an even coating. Arrange them on a light-colored 11×16-inch baking sheet (avoid dark baking sheets as they can cause uneven cooking).
6. Bake:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown. If you prefer a more golden top, broil them at 400°F for 1 minute, watching closely to avoid burning the stems.
7. Serve:
   • Let the poppers cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These jalapeño poppers are the perfect combination of creamy, cheesy goodness with a hint of heat. The crispy bacon adds a savory crunch, while the panko topping gives them a satisfying crispness. They’re an irresistible appetizer or party snack that everyone will love!

Tips

• Wear Gloves: Always wear gloves when handling jalapeños to avoid irritation from the capsaicin.
• Adjust the Heat: If you prefer a milder popper, remove all the seeds and membrane. For extra heat, leave some of the seeds behind.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare these poppers in advance by stuffing the jalapeños and refrigerating them until you’re ready to bake.
• Serve Warm: For the best flavor and texture, serve the poppers while they’re warm out of the oven.

Variations and Substitutions

• Cheese Options: Swap the cheddar for Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or a mix of your favorite cheeses for different flavor profiles.
• Bacon Alternatives: Use turkey bacon or omit the bacon for a vegetarian version.
• Spicy Ranch: Add a little hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes to the filling to give them an extra kick.
• Panko Topping: If you prefer a gluten-free version, substitute the panko with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.

FAQs

Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the jalapeños up to the point of baking, then refrigerate them until you’re ready to cook. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they’re chilled.

Can I freeze jalapeño poppers?
Absolutely! After filling and coating with breadcrumbs, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Are these spicy?
The heat level depends on how much of the membrane and seeds you remove. For a milder popper, remove all the seeds and membrane. For more heat, leave some behind.

Serving Suggestions

• Dips: Serve these poppers with ranch dressing, blue cheese dip, or a tangy sour cream dip.
• Side Dishes: Pair them with a fresh salad, grilled vegetables, or even a hearty chili for a complete meal.
• Drink Pairings: They go great with cold beer, margaritas, or even a refreshing iced tea.