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Jalapeño Poppers are a game day favorite that fill your home with mouthwatering aromas and irresistible textures. These spicy treats feature fresh jalapeños stuffed with a rich, creamy cheese blend, topped with buttery Panko crumbs, and baked to golden perfection—an appetizer that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.
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Cuisine: American
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 12
Why You’ll Love Making It
- Creamy & Crispy Perfection – The melted cheeses and crunchy breadcrumbs create an unforgettable texture in every bite.
- Beginner-Friendly – Step-by-step instructions make this recipe accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
- Customizable Heat – Adjust the spiciness by removing seeds or keeping them for an extra kick.
- Perfect for Game Day – These poppers are sure to be the star appetizer at any gathering.
Ingredients
- 12 jalapeños – Choose fresh, firm, vibrant green peppers. (Tip: Always wear gloves when handling jalapeños to avoid skin irritation.)
- 6 ounces cream cheese – Soften to room temperature for a smooth, creamy filling.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Provides a subtle, aromatic background flavor.
- 4 ounces sharp cheddar cheese – Shredded for a tangy, bold taste.
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives – Finely chopped for a burst of herbal freshness.
- ¼ cup Panko bread crumbs – Creates a light, crispy topping.
- 1 tablespoon melted butter – Helps the breadcrumbs toast to a perfect golden crisp.
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Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Jalapeños
Preheat your oven to 400°F. While the oven warms up, don your gloves and carefully slice each jalapeño in half lengthwise. Use a small spoon to scoop out the seeds and membranes, adjusting the heat level to your preference. This step is crucial to balance the spice and ensure every popper is bursting with flavor.
Step 2: Create the Filling and Topping
In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, garlic powder, shredded cheddar, and chopped chives. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well blended. In a separate bowl, toss the Panko bread crumbs with the melted butter until evenly coated. These two preparations set the stage for a creamy interior and a satisfyingly crunchy topping.
Step 3: Stuff and Bake
Generously fill each jalapeño half with the cheese mixture, using a small spoon to evenly distribute the filling. Sprinkle a layer of the buttery Panko crumbs on top of each stuffed pepper. Arrange the poppers on a baking pan lined with parchment paper or lightly greased to prevent sticking. Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the breadcrumb topping turns golden brown and the cheese filling is bubbly and set.
Step 4: Cool and Serve
After baking, remove the jalapeño poppers from the oven and let them cool on the pan for 5-10 minutes. This cooling period allows the filling to firm up slightly, ensuring a more enjoyable eating experience. Serve warm and get ready to impress your guests with these irresistible, flavorful appetizers!
FAQs
Can I prepare these poppers ahead of time?
Yes! You can stuff the jalapeños in advance and store them in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake them as directed. For the best texture and flavor, however, baking them fresh is recommended.
Can I swap out the cheeses or adjust the heat level?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses—try pepper jack for an extra spicy twist or mozzarella for a milder version. Additionally, if you prefer less heat, remove most or all of the seeds and membranes from the jalapeños before stuffing. This recipe is highly customizable to suit your taste.
