Description
These crispy baked jalapeno cheddar poppers are a lightning-fast, budget-friendly appetizer that delivers restaurant-quality crunch without the grease. Perfect for game days or busy weeknights, they are easy to customize for heat level and dietary needs.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12–16 large jalapeño peppers
- 8 ounces (225g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup (100g) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk
- 1.5 cups (150g) panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic salt
- 1 tablespoon chopped dill weed or parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
- Wear gloves and wash jalapeños. Slice them in half lengthwise and remove seeds and membranes using a knife or spoon.
- In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
- Stuff each jalapeño half with the cheese mixture, using about 1-2 tablespoons per half. Do not overfill.
- Set up a breading station: pour buttermilk into one shallow bowl. In another, mix panko, smoked paprika, garlic salt, and herbs.
- Dip each stuffed jalapeño into the buttermilk, let excess drip off, then press firmly into the breadcrumb mixture to coat all sides.
- Place coated poppers on the baking sheet, ensuring they are not crowded.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until breadcrumbs are golden brown and crispy, and peppers are tender.
- Remove from oven and let cool for 2-3 minutes before serving warm with dipping sauces.
Notes
Wear gloves when handling jalapeños to avoid skin irritation. Ensure cream cheese is softened to room temperature to avoid lumps. Pat peppers dry before stuffing to help the coating adhere. For extra crunch, double-dip in buttermilk and breadcrumbs. Can be frozen before baking for later use.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 poppers
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 2
- Sodium: 350
- Fat: 12
- Saturated Fat: 6
- Carbohydrates: 12
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 8
Keywords: jalapeno poppers, baked appetizer, cream cheese, cheddar, panko, spicy snack, game day food, easy recipes, gluten-free option, vegan option