Spicy & Cheesy Jalapeno Poppers
Crispy, creamy, and full of flavor, these baked Jalapeno Poppers are stuffed with a cheesy garlic filling and topped with buttery Panko crumbs. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or game day treat, they’re high in protein, fiber-rich, and low in carbs—easy to make and guaranteed to satisfy.
Equipment
- 1 medium mixing bowl
- 1 small mixing bowl
- 1 baking pan
- 1 small spoon
- Oven
- Gloves (for handling jalapeños)
Ingredients
- 12 medium jalapeños
- 6 ounces cream cheese softened
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 4 ounces sharp cheddar cheese shredded
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives chopped (optional)
- ¼ cup Panko bread crumbs
- 1 tablespoon butter melted
Instructions
- Preheat Your Oven: Begin by setting your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s fully heated by the time your jalapeños are stuffed. Preheating is crucial for even baking, allowing the cheese filling to melt properly while giving the Panko topping a golden, crispy finish.
- Prepare the Jalapeños: Put on a pair of kitchen gloves to protect your hands from the spicy oils. Slice each jalapeño lengthwise down the middle. Using a small spoon or melon baller, carefully scoop out all the seeds and membranes. Removing these not only reduces the heat but also creates a perfect cavity for the creamy filling. Set the hollowed jalapeños aside on a plate.
- Make the Cheese Filling: In a medium mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, garlic powder, shredded cheddar, and chopped chives (if using).Use a spoon or small spatula to mix thoroughly until the mixture is smooth, creamy, and well-blended. Taste carefully and adjust garlic seasoning if needed. This mixture will be the rich, flavorful core of your poppers.
- Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, combine the Panko breadcrumbs with the melted butter. Stir well until every breadcrumb is coated with butter, which will help create a golden-brown, crunchy topping when baked.Set aside while you fill the jalapeños.
- Stuff the Jalapeños: Take each hollowed jalapeño and spoon a generous amount of the cheese mixture into the cavity, pressing lightly to ensure it’s filled but not overflowing. Don’t worry about being perfect—some cheese peeking out is okay and will melt beautifully in the oven.
- Add the Crunchy Topping: Sprinkle the buttered Panko mixture evenly over the top of each stuffed jalapeño. Press lightly so the crumbs adhere to the cheese filling. This topping will crisp up in the oven, giving a satisfying texture contrast to the creamy interior.
- Arrange on a Baking Sheet: Place the stuffed and topped jalapeños upright or cut-side up on a baking pan lined with parchment paper or lightly greased. Ensure they are spaced slightly apart so hot air can circulate and cook them evenly.
- Bake to Golden Perfection: Transfer the pan to the preheated oven and bake for 18–22 minutes, keeping a close eye on the topping.You’re looking for a lightly golden, crispy breadcrumb surface and a bubbly, melted cheese filling. Ovens vary, so check at the 18-minute mark to avoid overbaking.
- Cool Before Serving: Remove the poppers from the oven and allow them to cool for 5–10 minutes on the pan. This cooling time helps the cheese set slightly, making them easier to pick up and preventing any risk of burning your mouth.
- Serve and Enjoy: Arrange your jalapeño poppers on a serving platter and serve warm. These are perfect on their own, or paired with a cool dipping sauce such as ranch, sour cream, or a zesty yogurt dip. They’re ideal for game days, parties, or as a satisfying snack any time of day.
Notes
- Always wear gloves when handling jalapeños to prevent skin irritation or accidental contact with your eyes.
- For milder poppers, remove all seeds and membranes carefully, or choose smaller jalapeños.
- Use room-temperature cream cheese for a smoother filling that’s easier to mix and stuff.
- Panko breadcrumbs can be substituted with regular breadcrumbs, but Panko provides extra crunch.
- Fresh chives add a bright flavor, but they are optional if you prefer simplicity.
- Baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven; check for golden crumbs and bubbly cheese.
- Let poppers cool slightly before serving to avoid burning your mouth with hot cheese.
