Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 10 fresh jalapeños
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: breadcrumbs or crushed crackers for topping
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and facilitate easy cleanup.
- Prepare Jalapeños: Carefully slice the jalapeños in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes using a spoon or knife to reduce the heat, unless you prefer it spicier.
- Make Cheese Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until the filling is creamy and well blended.
- Stuff Jalapeños: Spoon the cheese mixture evenly into each jalapeño half, filling them generously but without overflowing.
- Add Topping: If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs or crushed crackers over the filled jalapeños to add a crispy texture during baking.
- Bake: Arrange the stuffed jalapeños on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer and bake in the preheated oven for 18 to 22 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese filling is bubbly and lightly browned.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the poppers from the oven and let them cool slightly for a few minutes before serving to allow the filling to set slightly and prevent burns.
Notes
- Wear gloves when handling jalapeños to avoid skin and eye irritation caused by capsaicin.
- For extra heat, leave some of the jalapeño seeds intact when cleaning.
- These poppers can be prepped ahead of time and baked just before serving for convenience.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
