Description of this recipe
Jalapeño Poppers are a classic appetizer that packs a flavorful punch. These spicy peppers are halved, deseeded, and generously stuffed with a creamy, cheesy filling, then topped with crispy bacon and panko breadcrumbs. Baked to golden perfection, they offer a delightful combination of heat, richness, and satisfying crunch.
Why you will love this recipe
You’ll fall in love with these Jalapeño Poppers for several reasons:
- The Perfect Balance of Flavors: The fiery heat of the jalapeños is beautifully complemented by the creamy, tangy filling and the smoky, salty bacon. It’s a symphony of flavors that dance on your taste buds.
- Addictively Delicious Texture: The combination of the slightly softened jalapeños, the smooth filling, the melted cheese, and the crunchy topping is simply irresistible. Each bite is a textural adventure.
- Easy to Make: Despite their impressive flavor profile, these poppers are surprisingly easy to prepare. The recipe is straightforward and requires minimal cooking skills.
- Crowd-Pleasing Appetizer: Jalapeño Poppers are always a hit at parties, gatherings, and game-day events. They’re a fun and flavorful snack that everyone will enjoy.
- Customizable: This recipe is highly adaptable. You can adjust the level of spiciness, experiment with different cheeses, and add your favorite herbs and spices to the filling.
Ingredients:
Jalapeños:
- 12 jalapeños, about 7.5cm / 3″ long, cut in half and deseeded
Filling:
- 150g / 5oz streaky bacon
- 250g/ 8 oz cream cheese (I use Philadelphia)
- 1 1/2 cups (150g) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (or regular cheddar, tasty, Monterey Jack, colby)
- 1/2 cup green onion, finely sliced (2 big stems)
- 2 garlic cloves, finely minced
- 1/4 tsp cooking/kosher salt
- 1/8 tsp black pepper
Crunchy Topping:
- 2/3 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/8 tsp salt
- 1 – 2 tbsp olive oil
Topping:
- 1 cup (100 g) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (or other cheese listed above)
- 2 tbsp chives, finely sliced (optional garnish)
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Bacon
Place the bacon in a single layer in a large, unheated non-stick pan. There’s no need to add oil, as the bacon will render its own fat. Turn the stove onto medium-high heat. As the pan heats up, the fat will begin to melt. Once the bacon is sizzling, cook each side for approximately 2 minutes, or until it achieves a golden-brown color and crispy texture. Remove the cooked bacon and place it on paper towels to drain the excess fat. Reserve the rendered bacon fat in the pan; this will be used to toast the breadcrumbs. Repeat the process with any remaining bacon. Once the bacon has cooled down sufficiently, finely chop it into small crumbs.
Step 2: Toast the Breadcrumbs
Top up the reserved bacon fat with olive oil until you have a total of 2 tablespoons of fat in the pan. Allow the pan to cool slightly before returning it to medium heat. Add the panko breadcrumbs and salt to the pan. Toast the breadcrumbs, stirring regularly, until they are evenly golden brown – this should take approximately 3 minutes. Transfer the toasted breadcrumbs into a bowl and set aside. This step adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor to the poppers.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine 3/4 of the crumbled bacon (reserve the remaining bacon for topping) with the cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, finely sliced green onion, minced garlic cloves, salt, and black pepper. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to stir the ingredients together until they are thoroughly combined and form a smooth, creamy filling. Taste the filling and adjust the seasonings as needed. This creamy, cheesy filling is the heart of the jalapeño poppers, providing a rich and flavorful contrast to the heat of the peppers.
Step 4: Prepare the Jalapeños and Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 200°C/375°F (180°C fan). Line a baking tray with foil to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. Place a rack on top of the foil-lined tray. The rack will help to keep the jalapeños level and prevent them from tipping over during baking. Carefully stuff each jalapeño half with the prepared filling, slightly above the rim of the pepper (the filling will sink a bit during baking). However, be careful not to overfill the peppers, as this could cause the filling to overflow.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake the Poppers
Place the stuffed jalapeños on the rack, ensuring that the surface of the filling is level. Top each popper with a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese, pressing down gently to flatten the cheese slightly. Sprinkle the toasted panko breadcrumbs evenly over the cheese. Bake for 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the jalapeños have softened slightly but are still holding their shape (they should not be saggy).
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Carefully transfer the baked jalapeño poppers to a serving platter. Sprinkle with the reserved crumbled bacon and finely sliced chives (if using). Serve immediately while hot. The combination of the melted cheese, crispy bacon, and fresh chives creates a visually appealing and flavorful finishing touch.
COOKING Rating:
- Easy
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve hot as an appetizer at parties or gatherings.
- Enjoy as a snack while watching your favorite sporting events.
- Pair with a side of ranch dressing or sour cream for dipping.
- Add them to a buffet table for a fun and flavorful addition.
- Serve as a side dish with grilled meats or burgers.
Tips:
- Spice Level: Adjust the spiciness by removing more or less of the jalapeño seeds and membranes.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack, Colby, or pepper jack.
- Filling Additions: Add other ingredients to the filling, such as cooked sausage, diced tomatoes, or black beans.
- Breadcrumb Alternatives: Use crushed crackers or tortilla chips instead of panko breadcrumbs for a different texture.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the poppers ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to bake.
Prep Time:
- 20 minutes
Cook Time:
- 20 minutes
Total Time:
- 40 minutes
Nutritional Information:
(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)
- Calories: Approximately 200-250 per serving (2 poppers)
- Protein: 10-15 grams per serving
- Sodium: 300-400 mg per serving
Conclusion
These Jalapeño Poppers are more than just an appetizer; they’re an experience. The combination of heat, creaminess, and crunch is simply irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a party, watching a game, or just craving a flavorful snack, these poppers are sure to hit the spot. So, gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and get ready to enjoy a fiery bite of happiness!
Questions and Answers:
Q1: How can I make these Jalapeño Poppers less spicy?
A: The heat level of jalapeño poppers can be easily adjusted. The spiciness comes from the seeds and membranes inside the jalapeño peppers. When preparing the peppers, make sure to remove all the seeds and membranes thoroughly. You can even rinse the peppers under cold water to remove any lingering heat. If you’re particularly sensitive to spice, consider using a milder pepper variety, such as poblano peppers, although they have a different flavor profile.
Q2: Can I prepare these Jalapeño Poppers ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! Jalapeño Poppers are great for making ahead of time. You can prepare the poppers completely, up to the point of baking, and then store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, simply take them out of the refrigerator and bake as directed. This makes them a convenient appetizer for parties or gatherings when you want to get ahead on the preparation.
Q3: What kind of cheese works best for the filling?
A: Cream cheese is a must for the creamy base of the filling. For the shredded cheese, sharp cheddar is a classic choice, providing a bold and tangy flavor. However, you can experiment with other types of cheese to suit your preferences. Monterey Jack cheese will give you a milder, meltier flavor, while Colby cheese offers a slightly sweeter and more mellow taste. For a spicier kick, consider using pepper jack cheese.
Q4: Can I freeze Jalapeño Poppers?
A: While it’s possible to freeze Jalapeño Poppers, the texture may change slightly upon thawing. The cream cheese filling can become a bit grainy. If you do freeze them, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw them completely in the refrigerator before baking. Keep in mind that the quality may not be quite as good as freshly made poppers.
Q5: What dipping sauce goes well with Jalapeño Poppers?
A: Jalapeño Poppers are delicious on their own, but a dipping sauce can add an extra layer of flavor. Ranch dressing is a classic pairing, providing a cool and creamy contrast to the heat of the peppers. Sour cream is another great option, offering a tangy and slightly acidic counterpoint. For a spicier dipping sauce, try a chipotle ranch or a sriracha mayo. If you prefer something sweeter, a honey mustard or a sweet chili sauce can also be a delicious complement.
