Description
Jalapeño poppers are the perfect game-day appetizer, featuring spicy jalapeños stuffed with a creamy cheese filling, wrapped in crispy bacon or coated in a crunchy breadcrumb crust. Baked, fried, or air-fried, they’re an irresistible crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients
Scale
- 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)
Instructions
- 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.
Notes
- 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.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snack
- Method: Baking, Frying, Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: jalapeño poppers, game day appetizer, bacon-wrapped poppers, fried jalapeño poppers, spicy snacks