Ingredients
Jalapeño Poppers
- 10–12 fresh jalapeños, halved and seeds removed
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: breadcrumbs or cooked bacon bits for topping
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare it for baking the jalapeño poppers.
- Prepare Jalapeños: Carefully slice each jalapeño in half lengthwise and remove all seeds to reduce heat and create space for the filling.
- Mix the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until fully blended and creamy.
- Stuff the Jalapeños: Fill each jalapeño half evenly with the cheese mixture, ensuring they are well filled to maximize flavor.
- Add Toppings: Optionally, sprinkle breadcrumbs or cooked bacon bits on top of each stuffed jalapeño for extra texture and flavor.
- Bake: Arrange the stuffed jalapeño halves on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until the cheese is melted, golden, and bubbly.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the poppers to cool slightly before serving to avoid burning your mouth and to let the flavors set.
Notes
- Wear gloves when handling jalapeños to prevent skin irritation.
- To adjust the spice level, leave some seeds in your jalapeños before stuffing.
- For a vegetarian option, omit bacon bits from the topping.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
