Stuffed Jalapeño Poppers — Crispy & Cheesy Recipe

If you’re craving a snack that delivers a perfect punch of heat balanced with creamy, cheesy indulgence, you need to try these Stuffed Jalapeño Poppers — Crispy & Cheesy. Each jalapeño half is generously filled with a luscious blend of cream cheese and sharp cheddar, seasoned with just the right touch of garlic and smoked paprika. Then, they’re coated with a crunchy breadcrumb crust that bakes up golden and irresistible. These poppers are the ultimate game-day treat or party appetizer that’s sure to disappear quickly once you bring them to the table!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe is refreshingly simple, relying on a handful of essential ingredients that each play a starring role in the final dish. From the spicy jalapeños that provide the signature kick, to the creamy cheese that mellows the heat and the crispy breadcrumbs that add the perfect texture contrast — every component counts.

• 10 jalapeño peppers, halved and deseeded: Fresh and spicy, these are the perfect vessel for your cheesy filling.
• ½ cup cream cheese: Adds rich creaminess and binds the filling together wonderfully.
• ½ cup shredded cheddar: Sharp and flavorful, intensifying the cheesy goodness.
• ¼ tsp garlic powder: A subtle savory note to enhance the filling’s depth.
• ½ tsp smoked paprika: Introduces a gentle smoky warmth without overpowering the pepper’s heat.
• ½ cup breadcrumbs: Creates that addictive crunchy coating that everyone loves.
• 1 egg (beaten): Helps the breadcrumbs stick perfectly to each popper.
• Olive oil spray: For a light, golden finish in the oven without excess oil.

How to Make Stuffed Jalapeño Poppers — Crispy & Cheesy

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

Start by mixing together cream cheese, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, and smoked paprika in a bowl until smooth and well combined. This mixture is the creamy heart of the poppers, delivering bold flavor with every bite.

Step 2: Prepare the Jalapeños

Halve each jalapeño lengthwise and carefully scoop out the seeds and membranes to tame the heat slightly and make plenty of room for the cheesy filling.

Step 3: Stuff the Peppers

Using a spoon, stuff each jalapeño half generously with the cheese mixture. Don’t be shy — the more filling, the better the popper!

Step 4: Coat the Poppers

Dip each stuffed jalapeño into the beaten egg, then roll it in breadcrumbs to ensure an even, crispy coating that bakes up golden and irresistible.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Place the coated jalapeño poppers on a baking tray lined with parchment paper or lightly sprayed with olive oil spray. Bake at 200°C for 18 to 20 minutes until golden and bubbly. The smell alone will make your mouth water.

How to Serve Stuffed Jalapeño Poppers — Crispy & Cheesy

Garnishes

Enhance your poppers by drizzling with ranch dressing or a spicy mayo. Fresh cilantro or finely chopped chives sprinkled on top add a bright freshness and a pop of color that elevates the presentation.

Side Dishes

These poppers love company. Serve them alongside crisp veggie sticks, a fresh green salad, or even a zesty guacamole to balance out their rich, crunchy texture.

Creative Ways to Present

For an eye-catching appetizer platter, arrange your Stuffed Jalapeño Poppers — Crispy & Cheesy in a rustic wooden tray. Drizzle a zigzag of sauce over the top and snap a photo under warm lighting to highlight the golden crust and vibrant green peppers. It’s a feast for the eyes and the taste buds!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover poppers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They’ll stay crunchy if you reheat them correctly, so keep reading for tips!

Freezing

If you want to prepare ahead, you can freeze the stuffed, unbaked jalapeños on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a sealed freezer bag once solid. Bake fresh from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Reheating

Reheat your poppers in an oven preheated to 180°C for about 10 minutes to restore that crisp crust and melted cheese magic. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep them crunchy.

FAQs

Can I make these poppers less spicy?

Absolutely! Removing all the seeds and membranes from each jalapeño will significantly reduce the heat while keeping the delicious pepper flavor intact.

What type of cheese works best for the filling?

Cream cheese combined with sharp cheddar creates the ideal balance of creaminess and flavor, but you can experiment with Monterey Jack or even a bit of mozzarella for a different twist.

Can I bake instead of fry?

Yes, baking is the method here and it’s perfect! It produces that crispy, golden exterior without the mess and extra oil of frying.

How do I prevent the breadcrumbs from burning?

Using an olive oil spray rather than brushing with oil helps the breadcrumbs crisp without burning. Also, keep a watchful eye during the last few minutes of baking.

Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?

Definitely! The cheese filling can be made a day in advance and refrigerated. Just give it a quick stir before stuffing the peppers.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like biting into these Stuffed Jalapeño Poppers — Crispy & Cheesy to brighten up any gathering or snack time. Their combination of spicy, creamy, and crunchy textures makes them utterly addictive. I promise once you make them, you’ll be reaching for this recipe again and again. So grab some jalapeños and get ready for a flavor-packed adventure!