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Easy Baked Jalapeño Poppers with Cream Cheese Filling

Close-up of baked Jalapeño poppers halves filled with creamy cheese and topped with golden, crispy breadcrumbs.
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Make these simple, cheesy baked jalapeño poppers for a spicy appetizer that everyone will love. Control the heat easily when you prepare them.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 large jalapeño peppers
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter
  • Optional: 12 strips bacon, halved (for bacon wrapped poppers)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Prepare the jalapeños: Put on gloves. Slice each jalapeño lengthwise down the middle. Use a small spoon or knife to carefully scrape out the seeds and white membranes. This step controls the heat level.
  3. In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt. Mix until the filling is smooth and well combined.
  4. Spoon or pipe the cheese mixture evenly into the hollowed-out jalapeño halves.
  5. If making plain poppers: Place the filled peppers onto the prepared baking sheet.
  6. If making bacon wrapped poppers: Wrap each filled pepper half tightly with a half-strip of bacon, securing it with a toothpick if necessary. Place seam-side down on the baking sheet.
  7. In a small bowl, toss the panko breadcrumbs with the melted butter until coated. Sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the tops of the filled peppers.
  8. Bake for 18 to 22 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is bubbly and lightly golden.
  9. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving. Remove toothpicks before serving.

Notes

  • Wear gloves when handling jalapeños to protect your skin from the capsaicin oil.
  • For less heat, remove all the white pith and seeds. For more heat, leave some seeds inside.
  • If you prefer a crispier coating without frying, you can briefly broil the poppers for the last minute, watching carefully to prevent burning.
  • These are a great spicy appetizer poppers option for game night.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://savorsensations.com/baked-jalapeno-poppers-recipe/