Best Jalapeño Poppers Recipe | Crispy, Spicy, & Cheesy Delight

Jalapeño poppers are a perfect appetizer for parties, game nights, or any gathering where you want to impress your guests with a spicy and cheesy treat. These delicious bite-sized snacks combine the heat of jalapeño peppers with a creamy, cheesy filling, all wrapped in a crispy, golden-brown crust. Whether baked or fried, jalapeño poppers offer an irresistible combination of crunch and gooeyness that makes them a crowd favorite.

This easy-to-follow recipe will guide you through making the best homemade jalapeño poppers, complete with a crunchy coating and a mouthwatering cheese filling. You’ll also find variations to suit different dietary preferences, including baked, fried, and air-fried options.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Active Time: 15 minutes
• Resting Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Cuisine: American, Mexican
• Course: Appetizer, Snack
• Servings: 12 poppers
• Calories: Approximately 180 kcal per popper

Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowl
• Spoon or spatula
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Baking sheet (for baked version)
• Frying pan with deep sides (for fried version)
• Air fryer (optional for air-fried version)
• Tongs
• Parchment paper (if baking)

Ingredients

• 6 large jalapeño peppers, halved and deseeded
• 4 oz (113g) cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• Cooking spray or oil for frying

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Jalapeños

1. Wash the jalapeños and slice them in half lengthwise.
2. Using a small spoon, remove the seeds and membranes (wear gloves to avoid irritation).

Step 2: Make the Cheese Filling

3. In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
4. Mix well until smooth and fully combined.

Step 3: Stuff the Jalapeños

5. Using a spoon, fill each jalapeño half with the cheese mixture, ensuring it’s packed in but not overflowing.

Step 4: Bread the Poppers

6. Set up a dredging station with three bowls:
   • Bowl 1: All-purpose flour
   • Bowl 2: Beaten eggs
   • Bowl 3: Panko breadcrumbs mixed with cayenne pepper and dried oregano
7. Dip each stuffed jalapeño into the flour, then the egg mixture, and finally coat with the panko breadcrumbs.
8. Place them on a plate or baking sheet and let them rest for 5 minutes to help the coating adhere.

Step 5: Cook the Jalapeño Poppers

Option 1: Baked Jalapeño Poppers 9. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). 10. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the coated jalapeños in a single layer. 11. Lightly spray with cooking spray. 12. Bake for 18-20 minutes, until golden brown and crispy.

Option 2: Fried Jalapeño Poppers 13. Heat 2 inches of oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C). 14. Fry the poppers in batches for about 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown. 15. Remove with tongs and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.

Option 3: Air-Fried Jalapeño Poppers 16. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). 17. Arrange the poppers in a single layer and spray lightly with cooking spray. 18. Air fry for 8-10 minutes until crispy and golden brown.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

19. Let the jalapeño poppers cool for a few minutes before serving.
20. Serve with ranch dressing, sour cream, or a spicy dipping sauce.

Nutrition Facts (Per Popper)

• Calories: ~180 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Protein: 5g
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Cholesterol: 35mg
• Sodium: 210mg
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 1g

Tips for the Best Jalapeño Poppers

• Use fresh jalapeños for the best flavor and crunch.
• Adjust spice level by leaving some seeds in if you want them hotter.
• For extra crispiness, double coat by dipping twice in egg and panko.
• Make ahead option: Freeze uncooked poppers for up to 1 month. Cook directly from frozen, adding 2-3 minutes to the cooking time.
• Variations: Try adding crumbled bacon or chopped chives to the cheese mixture for extra flavor.

Conclusion

Jalapeño poppers are an easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing appetizer with a perfect blend of spice, crunch, and creaminess. Whether you choose to bake, fry, or air fry them, this Jalapeño Poppers Recipe ensures a delicious, crispy, and cheesy treat that will leave everyone wanting more. Try this recipe today and spice up your snack game!