Name: Jalapeno Poppers Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 12
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 jalapeño peppers; 6 oz cream cheese; 1 tsp garlic powder; 4 oz sharp cheddar; 2 tbsp chives; ¼ cup panko bread crumbs; 1 tbsp butter

Imagine a burst of heat paired with creamy, cheesy goodness – that's what you'll get with these delightful jalapeno poppers. They're a perfect appetizer for any occasion, offering a spicy kick that will make your taste buds dance. Made with just a few ingredients, they're surprisingly easy to prepare and sure to impress your guests.

Photos of Jalapeno Poppers Recipe

The key ingredients of this recipe are jalapenos, cream cheese, and panko bread crumbs. Jalapeno peppers are usually available in the produce section of the supermarket. Panko bread crumbs, which are Japanese-style bread crumbs, may be found in the international food aisle. If you prefer a milder taste, look for 'tamed' jalapenos.

Jalapeno Poppers Delight Ingredients

Jalapeno peppers: These provide the main structure of the poppers and bring heat. Depending on your heat tolerance, you can remove or leave some of the seeds.

Cream cheese: Gives the filling a smooth, creamy texture that contrasts nicely with the spicy jalapenos.

Garlic powder: Adds a hint of garlic flavor in the cream cheese filling, enhancing the overall taste.

Sharp cheddar: Complements the cream cheese with its strong and tangy flavor.

Chives: Adds a subtle onion flavor and a pop of color to the cream cheese filling.

Panko bread crumbs: Provides a crunchy texture to contrast the soft, creamy filling.

Butter: Helps the panko crumbs brown and become crispy.

One reader, Harper Spurlock says:

This jalapeno poppers delight recipe is a game-changer! The combination of creamy cheese, spicy jalapeños, and crispy breadcrumbs is simply irresistible. It's the perfect appetizer for any gathering. I highly recommend trying this recipe - it's a crowd-pleaser!

Harper Spurlock

Techniques Required for Making Jalapeno Popper Delights

How to prepare jalapeño poppers: Wear gloves and slice the jalapeños in half lengthwise. Use a small spoon to scoop out the seeds and membranes.

How to mix the cheese filling: In a bowl, combine cream cheese, garlic powder, sharp cheddar, and chives (if using) until well mixed.

How to make the breadcrumb topping: In a separate bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter until well combined.

How to fill the jalapeños: Fill the jalapeño halves with the cheese mixture, then top with the breadcrumb mixture.

How to bake the jalapeño poppers: Place the filled jalapeños on a baking pan and bake in a preheated 400°F oven for 18 to 22 minutes, or until golden brown.

How to cool and serve: Allow the jalapeño poppers to cool for 5 to 10 minutes before serving.

How To Make Jalapeno Poppers

Made with crumbled pieces of bacon stuffed in jalapeño and baked to perfection, these jalapeno poppers are the best appetizer or side dish for your meals.

Preparation: 20 minutes

Cooking: 25 minutes

Cool Time: 10 minutes

Total: 55 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

12jalapeno peppers
6ozcream cheese,softened
1tspgarlic powder
4ozsharp cheddar,shredded
2tbspchives,finely chopped
¼cupPanko bread crumbs
1tbspbutter,melted

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.
Wearing gloves, slice the jalapenos in half lengthwise. Using a small spoon, scoop out the seeds and membranes.
In a bowl, mix cream cheese, garlic powder, cheddar cheese, and chive if using.
In a separate bowl, combine Panko crumbs and melted butter.
Fill jalapenos with the cheese mixture. Top with crumbs.
Place on a baking pan and bake for 18 to 22 minutes or until golden.
Cool for 5 to 10 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 105.15kcal
Fat: 9.11g
Saturated Fat: 5.19g
Trans Fat: 0.15g
Monounsaturated Fat: 2.27g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.39g
Carbohydrates: 2.77g
Fiber: 0.47g
Sugar: 1.11g
Protein: 3.45g
Cholesterol: 27.49mg
Sodium: 115.10mg
Calcium: 86.10mg
Potassium: 66.31mg
Iron: 0.14mg
Vitamin A: 93.48µg
Vitamin C: 16.90mg

Pro Tip for Perfecting Jalapeno Popper Delights

When preparing your jalapeno peppers, it's crucial to remove all the seeds and membranes to reduce the heat. However, if you prefer a spicier popper, you can leave a few seeds in. Remember to wear gloves while handling jalapenos as the capsaicin can irritate your skin and eyes.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Jalapeno Poppers

Prep ahead: Prepare the jalapeño poppers a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator until ready to bake. This will save time on the day of serving.

Use a piping bag: Fill the jalapeño halves with the cream cheese mixture using a piping bag for a quicker and more efficient process.

Broil for a quicker finish: If you're short on time, broil the jalapeño poppers for a few minutes to achieve a golden, crispy topping in less time.

Double the batch: Make a larger batch of jalapeño poppers and freeze the extras for later use, saving time on preparation for future occasions.

Prep station: Set up a designated prep station with all the ingredients and tools needed to streamline the cooking process.

Substitute Ingredients For Jalapeno Poppers Recipe

jalapeño peppers - Substitute with Anaheim peppers: Anaheim peppers are milder than jalapeños, making them a suitable substitute for those who prefer a less spicy option.
cream cheese - Substitute with ricotta cheese: Ricotta cheese has a similar creamy texture and mild flavor, making it a good substitute for cream cheese in this recipe.
garlic powder - Substitute with onion powder: Onion powder can provide a similar savory flavor to the dish, complementing the other ingredients well.
sharp cheddar - Substitute with pepper jack cheese: Pepper jack cheese adds a bit of heat and a unique flavor profile, making it a great substitute for sharp cheddar in this recipe.
chives - Substitute with green onions (scallions): Green onions can provide a similar mild onion flavor and a pop of color, making them a suitable substitute for chives.
panko bread crumbs - Substitute with regular bread crumbs: Regular bread crumbs can be used as a substitute for panko bread crumbs, providing a similar texture and crunch when used in this recipe.
butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can be used as a substitute for butter to add richness and flavor to the dish while reducing the saturated fat content.

Plating Ideas for Jalapeno Popper Delights

Elevate the plating: When presenting the jalapeño poppers, focus on creating a visually stunning plate. Arrange the poppers in a circular pattern, with a drizzle of spicy aioli and a sprinkle of finely chopped chives for a pop of color.
Incorporate texture: Add a crunch to the dish by serving the jalapeño poppers on a bed of microgreens and edible flowers. This will not only enhance the visual appeal but also provide a delightful textural contrast.
Utilize elegant serving ware: Opt for sleek, modern serving platters or individual amuse-bouche spoons to showcase the jalapeño poppers. The presentation should exude sophistication and refinement.
Balance flavors and colors: Incorporate vibrant elements such as a drizzle of balsamic reduction to add a touch of sweetness and depth to the dish. The contrast of colors will captivate the judges' attention.
Attention to detail: Garnish the plate with a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a smoky aroma and a touch of heat. Every element on the plate should be meticulously placed to demonstrate precision and artistry.

Essential Equipment for Making Jalapeno Poppers

Cutting board: A flat surface used for cutting, slicing, and chopping ingredients.
Chef's knife: A versatile kitchen knife used for a variety of tasks such as chopping, slicing, and dicing.
Mixing bowl: Used for combining ingredients and mixing batters or dough.
Spoon: A utensil used for stirring, mixing, and serving.
Baking sheet: A flat, metal pan used for baking and roasting in the oven.
Oven: Used for baking, roasting, and cooking food through dry heat.
Gloves: Used for protecting hands when handling spicy ingredients like jalapeños.
Small spoon: Used for scooping out the seeds and membranes of the jalapeño peppers.
Baking pan: A pan used for baking and roasting in the oven.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Jalapeno Poppers

Here are the storing and freezing guidelines for jalapeno poppers:

Let the poppers cool completely before storing. Place them in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
To freeze, place the cooled poppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid, about 2 hours. Transfer the frozen poppers to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag and store in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat refrigerated poppers, place them on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through.
To reheat frozen poppers, place them on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. No need to thaw before reheating.
For best results, consume the poppers within the recommended storage times to ensure optimal flavor and texture. The longer they are stored, the softer the jalapeno peppers may become.
If you have any leftover cream cheese filling, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and use it within 3-4 days for other recipes or as a spread.

How To Reheat Leftover Jalapeno Poppers

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover jalapeno poppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until they are heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly. This method will help restore the crispiness of the panko bread crumbs and ensure that the filling is hot and gooey.
If you have an air fryer, you can use it to reheat your jalapeno poppers. Set the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the poppers in the basket, making sure they are not touching each other. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until they are heated through and crispy. This method is quick and will give you results similar to when they were freshly baked.
For a quick and easy reheating method, you can use your microwave. Place the jalapeno poppers on a microwave-safe plate and heat them on high for 30-45 seconds, or until they are heated through. Keep in mind that this method may result in a softer texture, and the bread crumbs may not be as crispy as when reheated in the oven or air fryer.
If you want to add a little extra flavor to your leftover jalapeno poppers, you can brush them with a mixture of melted butter and garlic powder before reheating them in the oven or air fryer. This will give them a delicious garlic butter flavor and help crisp up the exterior.
For a fun twist, you can cut the leftover jalapeno poppers into bite-sized pieces and use them as a topping for nachos or a filling for quesadillas. Simply sprinkle the pieces over your favorite nacho toppings or place them inside a tortilla with some extra shredded cheese before grilling.

Interesting Trivia About Jalapeno Poppers

The jalapeño poppers delight recipe is a popular appetizer that originated in the United States. It is believed that the dish was first created in Texas in the 1970s. The jalapeño poppers are often served as a party snack or as a side dish. They are known for their spicy kick and creamy filling, making them a favorite among those who enjoy spicy foods.

Is Making Jalapeno Poppers at Home Cost-Effective?

This jalapeño poppers delight recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients, such as jalapeño peppers and cream cheese, are reasonably priced, and the recipe doesn't require any extravagant or expensive items. The overall verdict for this recipe would be an 8/10, considering its simplicity, taste, and affordability. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $10-$12, making it an economical choice for a delicious and satisfying appetizer or snack.

Are Jalapeno Poppers Healthy or Unhealthy?

The jalapeño poppers delight recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. Here's why:

The recipe is high in fat due to the cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and butter. While some fat is essential in our diets, excessive amounts can lead to weight gain and other health issues.
The dish is relatively low in nutrients, as it primarily consists of cheese and jalapeños, which don't provide a wide range of vitamins and minerals.
The panko bread crumbs add extra carbohydrates and calories to the recipe without significantly increasing its nutritional value.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of cheese used or opt for lower-fat varieties, such as reduced-fat cream cheese and low-fat cheddar.
Incorporate more nutrient-dense ingredients, such as:
- Mixing chopped spinach, kale, or other leafy greens into the cheese filling
- Adding diced tomatoes or bell peppers to the filling for extra vitamins and fiber
Replace the panko bread crumbs with a more nutritious topping, like:
- Crushed nuts (e.g., almonds or walnuts) for added protein and healthy fats
- A mixture of whole wheat breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese for a fiber boost
Experiment with using Greek yogurt in place of some or all of the cream cheese to increase protein content and reduce fat.
Serve the jalapeño poppers alongside a fresh, colorful salad to balance out the meal and add more vitamins and minerals.

Editor's Opinion on This Jalapeno Popper Recipe

This jalapeno poppers delight recipe is a delightful combination of spicy jalapeños, creamy cheese, and crunchy breadcrumbs. The flavors and textures complement each other perfectly, creating a mouthwatering appetizer or snack. The cream cheese and cheddar filling with a hint of garlic and chives adds a rich and savory element, while the panko breadcrumbs provide a satisfying crunch. The recipe is easy to follow and yields delicious results, making it a great choice for entertaining or simply enjoying a flavorful treat.

Enhance Your Jalapeno Poppers Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of garlic and chives make the perfect accompaniment to these spicy jalapeno poppers.

Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet and smoky grilled corn on the cob is the ideal side dish to balance out the heat of the jalapeno poppers.

Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad with a mix of juicy berries and tropical fruits is a light and refreshing side to serve alongside the jalapeno poppers.

Chocolate Lava Cake: End your meal with a decadent chocolate lava cake for a sweet and indulgent dessert that complements the spicy kick of the jalapeno poppers.

Similar Recipes to Jalapeno Popper Delights

Savory Stuffed Bell Peppers: Use a mixture of ground beef, rice, and tomato sauce to stuff bell peppers, then bake until tender and delicious.

Mouthwatering BBQ Ribs: Marinate pork ribs in a tangy BBQ sauce, then slow cook or grill until the meat is fall-off-the-bone tender.

Refreshing Watermelon Salad: Combine juicy watermelon chunks with feta cheese, mint, and a balsamic glaze for a sweet and savory summer salad.

Creamy Mushroom Risotto: Sauté mushrooms and onions, then stir in arborio rice and slowly add broth until the mixture becomes a creamy and comforting risotto.

Decadent Chocolate Lava Cake: Bake individual chocolate cakes until the outside is set but the inside is gooey and molten, then serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Ideal Main Courses and Desserts to Serve with Jalapeno Poppers

Main Courses:

Chicken Alfredo: Indulge in a creamy and savory pasta dish that combines tender chicken with a rich and flavorful Alfredo sauce. The perfect comfort food for any occasion.

Beef Stir Fry: Experience the bold and vibrant flavors of a sizzling beef stir fry, packed with fresh vegetables and tossed in a savory sauce. A quick and delicious meal that will satisfy your cravings.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth and creamy texture will melt in your mouth, leaving you craving for more.

Strawberry Cheesecake: Savor the luscious and tangy flavor of a strawberry cheesecake, with a buttery graham cracker crust and a sweet strawberry topping. Each bite is a delightful combination of creamy and fruity goodness.

Why trust this Jalapeno Poppers Recipe:

This recipe guarantees a flavorful experience with jalapeño peppers stuffed with a creamy blend of cream cheese, garlic powder, and sharp cheddar. The addition of chives adds a fresh, aromatic touch. The crispy topping made with panko bread crumbs and butter provides a satisfying crunch. Baked to golden perfection, these jalapeño poppers are a delightful treat that promises to impress your taste buds.

Share your thoughts on this Jalapeno Poppers Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know if you have any tips or variations to suggest!

FAQ:

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the jalapeño poppers ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator before baking. Just cover them tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out.

Can I make this recipe without jalapeños?

While the recipe is specifically designed for jalapeño poppers, you can certainly use mini sweet peppers or other mild chili peppers as a substitute if you prefer a milder heat.

Can I freeze the jalapeño poppers?

Yes, you can freeze the assembled jalapeño poppers before baking. Place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. When ready to bake, simply place them directly in the oven from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

How can I reduce the spiciness of the jalapeños?

To reduce the spiciness of the jalapeños, you can remove the seeds and membranes, which are the hottest parts of the pepper. Additionally, soaking the sliced jalapeños in cold water for 30 minutes can help to mellow their heat.

What can I serve with the jalapeño poppers?

Jalapeño poppers are versatile and can be served with a variety of dipping sauces such as ranch dressing, sour cream, or a spicy chipotle mayo. They also pair well with a side of fresh salsa or guacamole for a delicious appetizer or snack.