Are you ready to embark on a flavor-packed adventure that combines the heat of jalapenos with the creamy goodness of cheese? Look no further than Jalapeno Poppers! These irresistible bite-sized appetizers are the perfect combination of spicy, cheesy, and crispy, making them a popular choice for parties, game nights, or anytime you crave a delicious and fiery treat. In this blog post, we’ll share a mouthwatering recipe for Jalapeno Poppers, complete with a list of ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and some tips to ensure your poppers turn out perfectly. Get ready to spice up your taste buds with this addictive and crowd-pleasing snack.
Ingredients:
- 12 fresh jalapeno peppers
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 1/2 cups breadcrumbs
- Cooking oil for frying
- Ranch dressing or sour cream for dipping (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the jalapenos: Start by washing the jalapeno peppers thoroughly. Cut off the stem end of each pepper, then slice them in half lengthwise. Carefully remove the seeds and membranes from inside the peppers, ensuring you leave the pepper intact. Use caution when handling jalapenos, as the seeds and membranes can be spicy. If desired, wear gloves or wash your hands thoroughly afterward.
- Make the filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Fill the jalapeno halves: Using a spoon or a piping bag, fill each jalapeno half with the cheese mixture, ensuring they are evenly filled.
- Prepare the breading station: Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls. In the first bowl, place the all-purpose flour. In the second bowl, add the beaten eggs. In the third bowl, place the breadcrumbs.
- Bread the jalapeno poppers: Take each filled jalapeno half and coat it in flour, shaking off any excess. Dip the floured jalapeno in the beaten eggs, making sure it is fully coated. Finally, roll the jalapeno in the breadcrumbs, pressing lightly to ensure the breadcrumbs adhere to the cheese filling. Place the breaded jalapeno poppers on a baking sheet or plate.
- Fry the poppers: Heat cooking oil in a deep skillet or saucepan over medium-high heat. Carefully place the breaded jalapeno poppers in the hot oil, frying them in batches for approximately 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon or tongs to transfer the fried poppers to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Serve and enjoy: Allow the jalapeno poppers to cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve them as a delicious appetizer or snack, with ranch dressing or sour cream for dipping, if desired.
Tips
- Bacon-wrapped jalapeno poppers: For an extra indulgent twist, wrap each filled jalapeno half with a strip of bacon before breading and frying them. The combination of smoky bacon and spicy jalapenos is sure to be a hit.