Craving a crowd-pleasing appetizer that'll make your taste buds dance and your guests beg for more? Look no further than these Easy Cheesy Jalapeno Poppers – the ultimate party snack that combines the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy goodness and a fiery kick! Whether you're hosting a game night, planning a summer barbecue, or simply want to treat yourself to a deliciously addictive bite, these poppers are about to become your new secret weapon in the kitchen.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 12 servings
Ingredients
- 12 jalapeno peppers
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- Cooking spray
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease with cooking spray.
- Carefully slice each jalapeno pepper lengthwise, keeping the stem intact. Use a small spoon to remove the seeds and membranes. For less heat, thoroughly remove all seeds and white membranes.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Mix thoroughly until well blended and smooth.
- Using a small spoon or piping bag, fill each jalapeno half generously with the cheese mixture, ensuring the filling is slightly mounded.
- Pour breadcrumbs into a shallow dish. Gently press the cheese-filled side of each jalapeno popper into the breadcrumbs to create a light, crispy coating.
- Arrange the stuffed jalapeno poppers on the prepared baking sheet, cheese-side up, with space between each pepper to ensure even cooking.
- Lightly spray the poppers with cooking spray to help the breadcrumbs brown and become crisp.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the breadcrumb topping is golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from oven and let cool for 3-5 minutes before serving. The filling will be extremely hot, so allow time for cooling.
- Serve warm as an appetizer or party snack. Optional: Serve with ranch or sour cream dipping sauce.
Tips
- Seed Selection: For those who prefer less heat, take extra time to remove all seeds and white membranes from the jalapenos. For heat lovers, leave some seeds in for an extra spicy kick.
- Cheese Mixing Tip: Ensure your cream cheese is fully softened at room temperature for the smoothest, most easily spreadable filling.
- Breadcrumb Coating Trick: Press the cheese-filled side gently into breadcrumbs to create an even, light coating that will turn beautifully golden and crispy.
- Cooking Spray Secret: The light spray before baking helps the breadcrumbs achieve that perfect golden-brown crunch.
- Cooling Caution: Let the poppers rest for a few minutes after baking – the filling will be extremely hot and needs time to set.
- Serving Suggestion: Pair with ranch or sour cream dip to balance the heat and add an extra layer of creamy deliciousness. Pro Tip: For a make-ahead option, you can prepare the stuffed poppers and refrigerate them before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking straight from the fridge.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 30mg
