Jalapeno Poppers Recipe

Crispy, cheesy jalapeno poppers perfect for any gathering.

Jalapeno Poppers are an irresistible appetizer that combines the heat of jalapenos with the creamy, cheesy filling of your dreams. Originating in Tex-Mex cuisine, these delightful snacks bring a balance of spice and comfort, making them perfect for parties, game days, or even just a tantalizing snack. They are a crowd-pleaser, often leaving your guests reaching for more.

This recipe will guide you through each step to prepare perfectly crispy and delicious jalapeno poppers. By following the detailed instructions and tips provided, you will learn how to balance the flavors beautifully and achieve the ideal crispy texture on the outside, paired with a rich, creamy filling on the inside.

Ingredients

• 10 fresh jalapenos
• 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup (100 g) shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup (50 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/2 cup (60 g) all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup (100 g) seasoned bread crumbs
• Cooking spray or vegetable oil for frying
• Salt to taste

Nutrition

Calories: ~290 calories

Instructions

1. Prepare the Jalapenos: Start by washing and drying the jalapenos. Cut each jalapeno in half lengthwise. Using a small spoon or a jalapeno corer, carefully remove the seeds and membrane, creating space for stuffing. Note: For less spicy poppers, make sure to remove all seeds and membrane as they contain most of the heat.
2. Make the Filling: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, minced garlic, onion powder, smoked paprika, and ground black pepper. Mix until all ingredients are thoroughly combined, creating a smooth, cohesive filling.
3. Stuff the Jalapenos: Using a spoon or a piping bag, fill each jalapeno half with the cheese mixture. Be generous with the filling, but ensure it does not overflow too much. Smooth the surface of the filling with the back of a spoon.
4. Prepare for Breading: Place the all-purpose flour in one shallow bowl, beaten eggs in another, and the seasoned bread crumbs in a third. Ensure your assembly line is organized for efficient breading.
5. Bread the Jalapenos: Dip each stuffed jalapeno into the flour, ensuring all sides are evenly coated. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, roll it in the seasoned bread crumbs until fully coated. Place breaded jalapeno on a baking sheet. Repeat with all jalapeno halves.
6. Fry the Jalapenos: Preheat your air fryer or deep fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray the breaded jalapenos with cooking spray if using an air fryer. Arrange them in a single layer without overcrowding. Fry for 10-12 minutes until golden brown and crispy. If using a deep fryer, carefully lower the poppers into hot oil and cook for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown, then remove and drain on a paper towel.
7. Bake Option: As an alternative, you can bake the jalapeno poppers. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the breaded poppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly spray with cooking oil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping once halfway through baking, until golden brown and crispy.
8. Serve: Once cooked, transfer the jalapeno poppers to a serving platter. Sprinkle a little salt if desired. Serve warm with a side of ranch dressing, blue cheese dip, or your favorite dipping sauce.
9. Enjoy: Whether fried or baked, these jalapeno poppers will be a hit at your gathering. Enjoy the perfect blend of spicy, creamy, and crispy textures in every bite.

Jalapeno Poppers are not only incredibly tasty but also a versatile dish that can be customized to your liking. You can play around with different cheeses or add a touch of bacon to the filling for an extra layer of flavor. For a healthier option, the baking method still yields deliciously crisp results without the added fat from frying.

Here are some tips to make the best jalapeno poppers: Wear gloves when handling jalapenos to avoid any irritation. Make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature for easier mixing. If you're making a large batch, you can freeze the breaded jalapenos before cooking, which makes them a convenient make-ahead appetizer.

Enjoy your spicy, cheesy creation and watch as your guests devour these irresistible jalapeno poppers!