If you’re craving a snack that’s creamy, cheesy, and has a bit of a kick, these Cheesy Stuffed Jalapeño Poppers are perfect for you. Stuffed with a rich and cheesy filling and baked until golden, these poppers are great as appetizers, game-day snacks, or party treats. They’re easy to make, satisfying, and, best of all, they disappear quickly!
Ready to bring on the heat? Let’s get started!
Cheesy Stuffed Jalapeño Poppers
Ingredients
Cheesy Stuffed Jalapeño Poppers
- 12 fresh jalapeños halved and seeds removed
- 4 oz cream cheese softened
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs optional, for added crunch
- Fresh chives or parsley chopped (for garnish)
Optional Add-Ins
- 2 tbsp cooked bacon bits for extra flavor
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika for a smoky twist
Substitutions
- Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cream cheese and cheese alternatives.
- Low-Carb: Skip the breadcrumbs and simply use cheese for a keto-friendly version.
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C)
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Prepare the Jalapeños
- Cut each jalapeño in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes.
- Be careful handling the jalapeños, and consider using gloves to avoid contact with the spicy oils.
Make the Cheese Filling
- In a medium bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, shredded mozzarella, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- If using, stir in the bacon bits and smoked paprika for extra flavor.
Stuff the Jalapeños
- Spoon the cheese mixture into each jalapeño half, pressing gently to fill.
- If using breadcrumbs, sprinkle a bit over each popper for added crunch.
Bake the Poppers
- Arrange the stuffed jalapeños on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the jalapeños are tender.
- For a more golden top, broil for an additional 1-2 minutes at the end.
Serve
- Garnish the poppers with fresh chives or parsley and serve hot.
- Enjoy these spicy, cheesy bites with your favorite dipping sauce!
Notes
Nutritional Information (Per Popper):
- Calories: 60-70
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
Notes/Advice:
- Additions/Subtractions:
- Adjust the spice level by removing more or fewer seeds from the jalapeños. Removing the seeds and membranes will make them less spicy.
- If you’re sensitive to spice, try using mini sweet peppers instead of jalapeños for a milder version.
- For added texture, you can also use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs for an extra-crispy topping.
Variations:
- Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers: Wrap each popper with a half slice of bacon before baking for extra flavor and crunch.
- Mexican-Style Poppers: Add a pinch of cumin and cilantro to the cheese mixture for a Mexican twist.
- Sweet and Spicy Poppers: Mix a tablespoon of honey into the cheese mixture for a sweet contrast to the spicy jalapeños.
Suggestions:
- Serving Ideas: Serve these poppers as an appetizer with a side of ranch or sour cream for dipping, or pair them with guacamole for a fun twist. They’re perfect for parties, game days, or any gathering.
- Make It Ahead: You can prepare the jalapeños and cheese filling in advance. Stuff them just before baking or store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.
- Storage Tips: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to keep them crispy.
Final Thoughts:
And there you have it—Cheesy Stuffed Jalapeño Poppers that are spicy, creamy, and absolutely addictive! These poppers are a fun and easy snack, packed with flavor and the perfect combination of heat and creaminess. Whether you’re making them for a party, a casual get-together, or just to satisfy your craving for something cheesy, these jalapeño poppers are sure to be a hit. So stuff those peppers, bake them until bubbly, and enjoy a deliciously spicy snack!