introduction
Jalapeno Poppers are small stuffed peppers baked until the cheese melts and turns light brown. They are spicy, creamy, and make a great snack or party food. If you like a bacon twist, try a related bacon popper idea called bacon jalapeno popper cheese balls for another way to enjoy the same flavors.
why make this recipe
This recipe is quick and simple. It uses few ingredients you may already have. The poppers are crispy on the outside and soft inside. They work for game day, small gatherings, or a simple appetizer at home.
how to make Jalapeno Poppers
- Preheat the oven to 400°F.
- Halve the jalapenos lengthwise*. Use a spoon to remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapenos. Discard.
- In a large bowl, combine the cream cheese, garlic, salt, pepper, green onion, shredded cheese, and cooked bacon for the filling. Use a fork to mash the mixture until everything is well incorporated.
- Fill the jalapeno halves with the mixture to sit level with the sides. Don’t be tempted to overstuff them.
- Place the stuffed jalapenos on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F for 18-20 minutes, or until the cheese melts golden in color.
- Serve warm or cooled to room temperature.
Ingredients :
12 jalapenos, 8 oz cream cheese (room temp), 1 garlic clove (minced), ¼ tsp salt, ¼ tsp ground black pepper, 3 Tbsp green onion (chopped), 1 cup shredded mild cheddar cheese, 6 oz bacon (cooked and chopped)
Directions :
Preheat the oven to 400°F. Halve the jalapenos lengthwise*. Use a spoon to remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapenos. Discard., In a large bowl, combine the cream cheese, garlic, salt, pepper, green onion, shredded cheese, and cooked bacon for the filling. Use a fork to mash the mixture until everything is well incorporated., Fill the jalapeno halves with the mixture to sit level with the sides. Don’t be tempted to overstuff them. Place the stuffed jalapenos on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F for 18-20 minutes, or until the cheese melts golden in color. Serve warm or cooled to room temperature.
how to serve Jalapeno Poppers
Serve warm on a platter. They pair well with ranch dressing, sour cream, or a simple salsa. Let some cool to room temperature if guests prefer less heat.
how to store Jalapeno Poppers
Cool to room temperature. Place in an airtight container and keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 8-10 minutes or until warmed through. Do not leave at room temperature for more than two hours.
tips to make Jalapeno Poppers
- Wear gloves when cutting jalapenos to avoid skin or eye irritation.
- Remove seeds and membranes for less heat. Keep some seeds if you want more spice.
- Let cream cheese reach room temp so filling mixes smooth.
- Use cooked and drained bacon to keep filling from getting watery.
- Don’t overfill the jalapeno halves; filling that sits level with the edges cooks evenly.
variation (if any)
- Wrap each stuffed half with a slice of bacon before baking for extra crisp and flavor.
- Use pepper jack or Monterey Jack instead of mild cheddar for more spice.
- Add breadcrumbs or panko on top for a crunchy finish.
- Make a vegetarian version by leaving out the bacon and adding chopped roasted red pepper.
FAQs
Q: Can I freeze stuffed jalapenos before baking?
A: Yes. Place filled jalapeno halves on a tray and freeze until firm, then move to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen but add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Q: How do I make poppers less spicy?
A: Remove all seeds and white membranes inside the jalapeno. Use mild cheese and add a bit more cream cheese to tame the heat.
Q: Can I use fresh grated cheese instead of shredded bag cheese?
A: Yes. Fresh grated cheese melts well and gives good flavor. Just measure the same amount by volume.
Q: Are there any safe substitutes for bacon?
A: Yes. Use vegetarian bacon, crumbled cooked sausage, or more green onion and roasted red pepper for flavor without pork.
