Name: Jalapeño Poppers (Game Day Appetizer)
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-483768H20M7S
Total time: PT-483768H20M7S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 jalapeño peppers; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp onion powder; 1/2 tsp smoked paprika; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 12 bacon strips (optional); 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional); 2 eggs, beaten (for breading option); 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (for breading option); Cooking spray or oil (for frying/baking)

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Short Description

Jalapeño poppers are the ultimate game-day appetizer, offering the perfect combination of spice, creaminess, and crunch. These bite-sized treats feature fresh jalapeño peppers stuffed with a rich, cheesy filling, then wrapped in crispy bacon or coated in a crunchy breadcrumb crust. Whether baked or fried, they deliver an irresistible flavor explosion that will have everyone reaching for more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Perfect for Game Day: These poppers are an easy, crowd-pleasing appetizer that can be prepared in advance and cooked just before serving.
Customizable: Whether you prefer bacon-wrapped, breaded, or even keto-friendly versions, there’s a variation for everyone.
Balanced Flavors: The spicy kick from jalapeños pairs beautifully with the creamy, cheesy filling.
Crunchy Texture: If fried or baked with breadcrumbs, the exterior becomes golden and crispy for the perfect bite.
Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can create a gourmet-quality appetizer at home.

Ingredients

Jalapeño peppers
Cream cheese
Cheddar cheese
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Smoked paprika
Salt
Black pepper
Bacon strips (optional)
Panko breadcrumbs (optional)
Eggs (for breading option)
All-purpose flour (for breading option)
Cooking spray or oil (for frying/baking)

Directions

Prepare the Jalapeños: Slice the jalapeños in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes. If you prefer a spicier popper, leave some seeds intact.
Make the Filling: In a bowl, mix the cream cheese, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
Stuff the Peppers: Using a spoon or piping bag, fill each jalapeño half with the cheese mixture, ensuring an even distribution.
Wrap or Bread:
- Bacon-Wrapped: Wrap each stuffed jalapeño with a slice of bacon, securing it with a toothpick.
- Breaded: Dredge each popper in flour, dip in beaten egg, then coat with panko breadcrumbs for a crunchy exterior.
Cooking Methods:
- Baking: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the jalapeño poppers on a lined baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes until the bacon is crispy or the breadcrumbs are golden.
- Frying: Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) and fry breaded poppers for 2-3 minutes until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
- Air Frying: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, checking for crispiness.
Serve Hot: Allow the poppers to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy with ranch dressing, sour cream, or a spicy dipping sauce.

Variations

Keto-Friendly: Skip the breadcrumbs and opt for bacon-wrapped poppers.
Extra Spicy: Mix in diced jalapeños or hot sauce into the cheese filling.
Mild Version: Use mini bell peppers instead of jalapeños for a less spicy alternative.
Different Cheeses: Try pepper jack, gouda, or mozzarella for unique flavors.
Vegetarian Option: Omit the bacon and opt for a breadcrumb coating.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Total Time: 35-40 minutes
Servings: 12 poppers

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftover jalapeño poppers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze uncooked, stuffed poppers on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Cook directly from frozen, adding extra time.
Reheating: Reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes.

FAQs

How spicy are jalapeño poppers?

The heat level depends on how many seeds and membranes are left in the peppers. Removing them makes the poppers milder.

Can I make jalapeño poppers ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble them a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator until ready to bake or fry.

What’s the best dipping sauce for jalapeño poppers?

Ranch dressing, sour cream, or a spicy sriracha mayo pairs well with the flavors.

Can I use an air fryer for jalapeño poppers?

Absolutely! Air frying at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes produces crispy results with less oil.

Are jalapeño poppers gluten-free?

The bacon-wrapped version is gluten-free, but if using breadcrumbs, opt for gluten-free panko.

How do I make them crispier?

For extra crunch, use panko breadcrumbs and lightly spray them with oil before baking or air frying.

Can I use different peppers?

Yes, if you prefer a milder version, mini bell peppers or banana peppers work well.

Should I blanch the jalapeños before stuffing them?

It’s not necessary, but blanching can slightly reduce the heat and soften the texture.

Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes, experiment with gouda, pepper jack, or blue cheese for a unique twist.

What’s the best way to reheat leftover poppers?

Reheat in the oven or air fryer to retain crispiness—avoid microwaving as it makes them soggy.

Conclusion

Jalapeño poppers are the ultimate game-day snack, offering the perfect balance of spice, creaminess, and crunch. Whether you choose bacon-wrapped or crispy breaded versions, they’re easy to make and guaranteed to impress your guests. Try them for your next gathering and watch them disappear in no time!

Print