Jalapeño poppers are the ultimate snack, perfect for any gathering or just a cozy night in. With their spicy kick and creamy filling, they’re a crowd-pleaser that never disappoints. Whether you’re a fan of the classic version or looking to try a new twist, these recipes offer something for everyone. Get ready to spice up your menu with these irresistible jalapeño popper ideas!
Steps
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- Preheat your oven to 400°F. Carefully slice each jalapeno in half lengthwise, wearing gloves to protect your hands from the spicy oils. Use a small spoon to remove the seeds and membranes, then discard them.
- In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, garlic powder, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped chives to create the filling. Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are well blended.
- In a separate bowl, mix Panko bread crumbs with melted butter to create a crunchy topping. Ensure the bread crumbs are evenly coated with the butter.
- Fill each halved jalapeno with the prepared cheese mixture, making sure to distribute it evenly. Sprinkle the buttery Panko topping over each filled jalapeno half.
- Arrange the stuffed jalapenos on a baking pan. Bake them for 18-22 minutes until the tops are golden and the cheese is bubbly.
- Allow the poppers to cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. Enjoy them with a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.
Ingredients
- 12 fresh jalapeños
- 6 ounces of softened cream cheese
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 4 ounces of shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh chives
- ¼ cup of Panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon of melted butter
Nutritional Values
Calories: 1248 | Carbohydrates: 24g | Protein: 36g | Fat: 108g | Saturated Fat: 60g | Cholesterol: 336mg | Sodium: 1464mg | Potassium: 792mg | Sugar: 12g | Vitamin A: 5820IU | Vitamin C: 202.8mg | Calcium: 1032mg | Iron: 2.4mg
FAQ
- How do I safely cut jalapeños for poppers?
- Always wear gloves when handling jalapeños to avoid skin irritation from the oils. Slice the jalapeños lengthwise and use a small spoon to remove the seeds and membranes for reduced heat.
- Can I reduce the spiciness of jalapeño poppers?
- Yes, to make poppers less spicy, thoroughly remove all the seeds and inner membranes of the jalapeños. For a completely mild version, consider using baby bell peppers.
- What are some variations I can try with jalapeño poppers?
- You can customize poppers by adding ingredients like cooked bacon, cilantro, or Monterey jack cheese. For a low-carb version, skip the bread crumbs, or try wrapping them in bacon for extra flavor.
- How long should I bake jalapeño poppers?
- Bake the poppers for about 18-22 minutes at 400°F until the cheese is melted and the tops are golden. If baking from frozen, extend the time to 25-30 minutes at 425°F.
- Can I make jalapeño poppers ahead of time?
- Yes, jalapeño poppers can be prepared a couple of days in advance or frozen for later use. If frozen, bake them directly without thawing for slightly longer.
- What dipping sauces pair well with jalapeño poppers?
- Jalapeño poppers are delicious when served with cool dipping sauces like ranch or blue cheese dressing.
Tips
- Always wear gloves when handling jalapeños to avoid skin irritation from the pepper oils, and make sure not to touch your face during preparation.
- If you prefer a milder popper, be sure to remove all seeds and inner membranes from the jalapeños, as these contain most of the heat. For a spicier kick, leave some of the membranes intact.
- For an alternative to traditional breading, try a simple Panko topping for a satisfying crunch, or skip the crumbs altogether for a keto-friendly version.
- Prepare jalapeño poppers in advance and freeze them for convenience. When ready to serve, bake directly from frozen at 425°F for 25-30 minutes.
Equipment
- Gloves – Essential for safely handling and cutting jalapeños to avoid skin irritation.
- Baking Pan – Needed for placing the jalapeño poppers in the oven.
- Small Spoon – Useful for scooping out seeds and membranes from the jalapeños. (While many people might have spoons at home, a specific small spoon for this purpose might not be common.)
