These Crispy Baked Cheesy Jalapeño Poppers deliver the perfect combination of creaminess, crunch, and heat.
With a blend of three rich cheeses and a crispy golden breadcrumb coating, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and sure to impress.
Let’s dive into how to make this show-stopping dish!
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Ingredients
For the Jalapeño Poppers:
- 10 fresh jalapeños (halved and deseeded)
- 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For the Quick Homemade Dipping Sauce:
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tsp hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 clove garlic, finely minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Crispy Baked Cheesy Jalapeño Poppers
Step 1: Prep the Jalapeños
Start by washing and drying your jalapeños. Slice them lengthwise and scoop out the seeds and membranes with a small spoon.
If you prefer extra heat, leave a few seeds intact. Place the jalapeño halves on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cut side up, and set them aside.
Step 2: Make the Cheese Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, shredded cheddar, shredded mozzarella, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until the filling is smooth and well combined.
Step 3: Stuff the Jalapeños
Use a small spoon to generously fill each jalapeño half with the cheese mixture. Ensure the filling is slightly mounded for that cheesy, gooey effect.
Step 4: Prepare the Crispy Coating
In another bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and grated Parmesan cheese. This combination adds a rich, crunchy texture to your poppers.
Step 5: Coat the Poppers
Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture generously over the stuffed jalapeños, pressing lightly so it adheres to the cheese filling.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven or air-fryer to 400°F (200°C). Bake the poppers for 18–20 minutes or until the breadcrumbs are golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is bubbling. For an extra crispy finish, broil them for 1–2 minutes at the end.
To air fry these jalapeño poppers, preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the stuffed jalapeños in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don’t overlap for even cooking. Cook for 8–10 minutes, or until the breadcrumbs are golden and crispy and the cheese filling is bubbling.
Quick Homemade Dipping Sauce
While the poppers bake, whip up a simple dipping sauce. Combine Greek yogurt or sour cream, mayonnaise, lime juice, hot sauce, garlic, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Mix well and adjust seasoning to taste. This zesty, creamy sauce perfectly complements the spicy poppers.
Tips for Perfect Jalapeño Poppers
- Choose Fresh Jalapeños: Look for firm, smooth peppers for easy stuffing and consistent cooking.
- Customize the Cheese Blend: Swap out cheddar or mozzarella with pepper jack or Gouda for a unique flavor.
- Experiment with Add-Ins: Add cooked, crumbled vegetarian bacon or finely chopped green onions to the cheese mixture for extra flavor.
- Control the Heat: Removing seeds and membranes tames the spice. Keep them for a fiery version.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the poppers a day in advance and bake them just before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe combines the richness of cream cheese, the sharpness of cheddar, and the creaminess of mozzarella for a three-cheese masterpiece. Baking instead of frying keeps the poppers lighter without sacrificing crunch. Plus, the buttery panko-Parmesan topping adds the perfect savory finish.
The quick homemade dipping sauce elevates the dish with its tangy, garlicky notes. Whether you’re serving these for game day, a potluck, or as a side, they’ll disappear in no time.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these crispy baked jalapeño poppers fresh from the oven with the dipping sauce on the side. Pair them with refreshing beverages like iced tea or a sparkling lemonade to balance the heat.
These poppers also make a fantastic addition to a vegetarian appetizer spread, alongside veggie sliders, zucchini fries, or stuffed mushrooms.
Storage and Reheating
If you have leftovers (a rare occurrence!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes to restore their crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the breadcrumbs soggy.
Conclusion
Crispy Baked Cheesy Jalapeño Poppers are a must-try for any occasion. With their rich cheese filling, crunchy topping, and customizable heat levels, they’re an irresistible vegetarian treat. The easy-to-make dipping sauce ties everything together, making this recipe a guaranteed hit.
So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy the ultimate combination of heat and crunch. These jalapeño poppers will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Crispy baked jalapeño poppers stuffed with a three-cheese blend and topped with a golden breadcrumb coating, served with a zesty homemade dipping sauce.
