Game day just got a whole lot spicier! Forget soggy, greasy jalapeno poppers; this recipe delivers the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy goodness with a satisfying kick, all baked to crispy perfection. These aren't your average appetizers – we're talking plump, juicy jalapenos stuffed with a flavorful blend of cream cheese, cheddar, and a hint of something extra special (we'll let you discover that!). Prepare for rave reviews from your guests, whether you're hosting a Super Bowl party or just craving a delicious snack.
These baked jalapeno poppers are surprisingly easy to make, requiring minimal prep time and cleanup. Forget deep-frying; baking ensures a healthier, lighter alternative without sacrificing any flavor. Ready to transform your game-day spread? Let's dive into the simple, step-by-step process to create these irresistible appetizers.
Tools Needed
- Baking sheet
- Small spoon
- Grater
- Bowl
- Paper towels
Ingredients
- Cream cheese: 8 ounces
- Cheddar cheese: 1 1/2 cups
- Bacon: 6 slices
- Jalapeno peppers: 10 large
- Chives: 4 tablespoons
- Garlic cloves: 2
- Salt
- Pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Ingredients
- Soften cream cheese at room temperature. (This might take longer than you think!)
- Bake bacon at 400°F for 15-18 minutes until crispy.
- Slice jalapenos in half, scoop out seeds and membranes. Wash hands thoroughly afterward!
- Grate cheddar cheese and set aside.
- Drain crispy bacon on paper towels.
Step 2. Mix the Filling
- Combine softened cream cheese, cheddar cheese, 4 slices of crumbled bacon, chives, minced garlic, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Mix well.
Step 3. Stuff and Bake
- Fill each jalapeno half with the cream cheese mixture, avoiding overfilling.
- Bake filled jalapenos at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, or until lightly golden.
Step 4. Garnish and Serve
- Garnish with remaining bacon and chives (optional).
Read more: Quick & Easy Pantry Mexican Rice with Rotel
Tips
- For perfectly crispy bacon, ensure even thickness. Crumbling bacon into the filling prevents uneven cooking.
- Avoid rubbing your eyes after handling jalapenos due to capsaicin oil.
- Don't overfill jalapenos; the filling might seep out during baking.
- Leftover filling can be used in scrambled eggs, quesadillas, or on baked potatoes.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the stuffed jalapenos up to a day in advance and store them covered in the refrigerator. Bake them when you're ready to serve.
2. What if I don't have cream cheese? Can I substitute?
You can try using a different soft cheese like ricotta or Neufchâtel, but the cream cheese provides the best texture and flavor.
3. How can I make these less spicy?
Remove the membranes and seeds from the jalapenos before stuffing. You can also reduce the amount of chili powder or other spicy seasonings in the filling.
These baked jalapeno poppers are the perfect addition to your Super Bowl spread, guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Their crispy exterior and creamy, cheesy filling offer an irresistible flavor combination that's both satisfying and easy to make. So ditch the greasy takeout and impress your guests with this simple yet delicious recipe!