Easy Gluten-Free Jalapeño Poppers Recipe-Perfect Appetizer
Jalapeño Poppers Recipe are a mouthwatering appetizer that combines the perfect balance of spice, creaminess, and crunch. To make this simple yet flavorful dish, start by slicing fresh jalapeños lengthwise and removing the seeds and membranes for a milder heat. Prepare a creamy filling by mixing cream cheese, shredded cheddar, and optional seasonings like garlic powder or smoked paprika. Stuff the halved jalapeños with the cheese mixture, ensuring they’re evenly filled. For a crispy coating, dredge the stuffed jalapeños in flour, dip them in beaten eggs, and roll them in breadcrumbs or panko. Fry them in hot oil until golden brown or bake them at 375°F for about 20 minutes for a lighter option. Serve these irresistible poppers with a side of ranch or sour cream for dipping. Whether hosting a party or craving a spicy snack, jalapeño poppers are sure to impress with their bold flavors and satisfying texture.
Easy Gluten-Free Jalapeño Poppers Recipe-Perfect Appetizer
Looking for a quick and delicious snack or party appetizer that fits your gluten-free lifestyle? These Easy Gluten-Free Jalapeño Poppers are a crowd-pleasing treat that combines the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy goodness with a spicy kick. Whether you’re hosting a game day party, a casual get-together, or just want a flavorful snack, this recipe will surely impress your guests. Made with simple, gluten-free ingredients, these poppers are crispy, gooey, and packed with flavor—perfect for anyone, whether they’re gluten-sensitive or not.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 120
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 250mg
Easy Gluten-Free Jalapeno Poppers Recipe
Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or aluminum foil
- Mixing bowls
- Spoon
- Knife and cutting board
- Oven
Ingredients
- 4 large fresh jalapeno peppers
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup gluten-free bread crumbs
- 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
- Prepare the Jalapenos: Cut the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes. Wear gloves if you are sensitive to the heat of the peppers.
- Make the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended.
- Fill the Jalapenos: Using a spoon, fill each jalapeno half with the cheese mixture, pressing it in so it’s well packed.
- Coat with Bread Crumbs: In a separate bowl, mix the gluten-free bread crumbs with the olive oil or melted butter until evenly coated. Dip each stuffed jalapeno half into the bread crumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
- Bake: Place the breaded jalapeno halves on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until the bread crumbs are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Allow the poppers to cool slightly before serving. They can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
Notes
Tips
- Handling Jalapenos: Wear gloves while handling jalapenos to avoid skin irritation from the capsaicin.
- Variations: You can add cooked bacon bits to the cheese mixture for extra flavor.
- Make Ahead: The poppers can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to bake.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve with a side of ranch dressing or your favorite dipping sauce.
Ingredients
For the Filling:
- 6–8 fresh jalapeño peppers
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a cheese of your choice)
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp smoked paprika (optional, for added flavor)
For the Gluten-Free Coating:
- 1 cup gluten-free breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp dried parsley or oregano (optional)
- 1 large egg, beaten
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Jalapeños
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Slice each jalapeño in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes. (For milder poppers, make sure to remove all seeds.)
Step 2: Make the Filling
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Assemble the Poppers
- Fill each jalapeño half with the cream cheese mixture. Be generous but don’t overfill.
- In separate bowls, place the gluten-free breadcrumbs and beaten egg.
- Dip the stuffed jalapeño halves into the beaten egg, then coat them with gluten-free breadcrumbs. Press lightly to ensure the crumbs stick.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
- Arrange the coated jalapeños on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until the breadcrumbs are golden brown and crispy.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Remove from the oven and let the poppers cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Enjoy them as-is or pair with your favorite dipping sauce, like ranch or a zesty cilantro-lime dip.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Gluten-Free Friendly: Perfect for anyone with gluten sensitivities or those avoiding gluten.
- Customizable: Swap cheeses, add bacon bits, or sprinkle with fresh herbs for variety.
- Healthier Option: Baking instead of frying keeps these poppers lighter without compromising flavor.
I am Ashley Doyle, Senior Specialist in Food & Policy at The Humane Society of the United States and editor at airfryermama.com. I am passionate about transforming our global food system by promoting delicious, climate-friendly, plant-based foods. After transitioning from law to food and public policy, I now work with major food service companies to develop plant-based initiatives and animal welfare policies. My goal is to drive institutional change to combat climate change and improve our food system.
