Description
Crispy, cheesy bites that bring everyone together, perfect as a snack or appetizer.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 medium jalapeños
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 pinch black pepper
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives, finely chopped
- 6 slices bacon, halved (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Halve each jalapeño lengthwise and scoop out seeds and membranes for controlled heat.
- Make the filling: beat the cream cheese until smooth. Stir in cheddar, Parmesan, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and chives.
- Fill the peppers with the cheese mixture, mounding slightly.
- Add panko breadcrumbs on top of each filled pepper.
- Optional wrap each filled pepper with a half slice of bacon.
- Bake for 15–20 minutes or until the bacon is crisp and the topping is golden.
- Rest for 3–4 minutes before serving warm.
Notes
Make them vegetarian by skipping bacon. A healthier alternative is to air-fry for a lighter version.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 poppers
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: jalapeño poppers, appetizers, party snacks, cheesy snacks