Jalapeño Poppers Recipe – The Perfect Spicy & Cheesy Appetizer
Introduction
Craving a spicy, cheesy appetizer that’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser? Look no further than Jalapeño Poppers. These crunchy, creamy, and fiery bites are the ultimate finger food for parties, game nights, or whenever you want to add a little heat to your menu. Made with fresh jalapeños stuffed with a rich cheese filling and coated in crispy breadcrumbs, they’re irresistible!
Ingredients
For the Stuffing:
- 8 fresh jalapeño peppers, halved lengthwise and deseeded
- 4 oz (1/2 cup) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt & pepper to taste
For Coating:
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko preferred for extra crunch)
- 1/2 tsp paprika (optional, for added flavor)
For Frying:
- Oil for deep frying (vegetable or canola oil)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Jalapeños
- Wash the jalapeños thoroughly.
- Slice each jalapeño lengthwise and remove seeds and membranes using a spoon.
- Tip: If you want to reduce the heat, remove all seeds and soak them in cold water for 10–15 minutes.
Step 2: Make the Cheese Filling
- In a bowl, mix cream cheese, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Stir well until it becomes a creamy, uniform mixture.
Step 3: Stuff the Jalapeños
- Spoon the cheese mixture into each jalapeño half. Press it gently so it stays in place.
- Don’t overfill, as the cheese might ooze out during frying.
Step 4: Coat the Poppers
- Set up a breading station:
- Plate 1: All-purpose flour
- Plate 2: Beaten eggs
- Plate 3: Breadcrumbs mixed with paprika
- Dredge each stuffed jalapeño first in flour, then dip it into the egg, and finally roll it in breadcrumbs.
- For extra crunch, repeat the egg and breadcrumb coating one more time.
Step 5: Chill Before Frying
- Place the coated jalapeño poppers in the fridge for 20–30 minutes.
- This helps firm them up and prevents cheese leakage while frying.
Step 6: Deep Fry the Poppers
- Heat oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully drop 3–4 poppers at a time into the hot oil.
- Fry for 2–3 minutes per side or until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
Alternative: Bake or Air Fry
- To Bake: Place poppers on a baking tray and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes until crispy.
- To Air Fry: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve hot with ranch dip, sour cream, chipotle mayo, or spicy ketchup.
- Garnish with chopped chives or parsley for an extra touch.
Tips for the Perfect Jalapeño Poppers
- Wear gloves while handling jalapeños to avoid skin irritation.
- For a meaty twist, add cooked bacon bits or sausage to the cheese filling.
- Make them ahead of time and freeze before frying for a quick snack anytime.
Conclusion
Jalapeño Poppers are the ultimate indulgent snack—crispy outside, gooey and cheesy inside, with just the right amount of heat. Whether you’re serving them for a game-day party or enjoying a spicy bite at home, this recipe never disappoints!