What You’ll Love About This Recipe
These homemade jalapeno poppers are a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to whip up and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving a tasty snack, this recipe is sure to hit the spot.
- Cheesy Goodness: Packed with creamy cheese filling, every bite is rich, gooey, and totally satisfying.
- Crunchy Perfection: The crispy outer coating adds a delightful crunch that complements the soft filling inside.
- Customizable Heat: You can keep it mild or kick up the spice—it’s all up to you and your taste buds!
Recipe
Intro:
These homemade jalapeno poppers are a perfect blend of spicy, creamy, and crispy. Stuffed with a cheesy filling and wrapped in crispy bacon, they make an irresistible appetizer for any gathering.
Ingredients:
- 12 fresh jalapeno peppers
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
- 12 slices bacon, cut in half
- Toothpicks (for securing bacon)
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Slice jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove seeds and membranes (use gloves for handling).
- In a bowl, mix cream cheese, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika until well combined.
- Fill each jalapeno half with the cheese mixture.
- Wrap each stuffed jalapeno with a half-slice of bacon and secure with a toothpick.
- Place poppers on the baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until bacon is crispy.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes:
- For extra crispiness, broil for the last 2-3 minutes.
- Adjust spice level by leaving some seeds for more heat.
Equipment:
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowl
- Toothpicks
Time:
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 25 minutes
Cuisine: American
Serving: 24 poppers (serves 6-8 as an appetizer)
Nutrition
Homemade jalapeno poppers are a delicious snack, but they can be high in calories. Nutritional values may vary based on ingredients and portion sizes.
| Nutrients | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 kcal |
| Total Fat | 8 g |
| Saturated Fat | 3 g |
| Cholesterol | 15 mg |
| Sodium | 180 mg |
| Total Carbs | 9 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugars | 2 g |
| Protein | 4 g |
What To Serve With It
I’ve found that jalapeno poppers pair perfectly with creamy dips like ranch or guacamole, adding a cool contrast to the spicy kick. For drinks, I love balancing the heat with something invigorating, like a lime soda or an ice-cold beer. A simple side of nachos or a fresh salad rounds out the meal without stealing the spotlight.
Side Dishes
If you’re looking for the perfect sides to balance the spicy kick of jalapeno poppers, you’re in the right place. I love serving them with cool, creamy dips like ranch or blue cheese—they tame the heat perfectly. A crisp, fresh salad with crunchy veggies adds lightness, while loaded nachos or cheesy fries keep things indulgent. For something heartier, try smoked pulled pork or grilled chicken skewers. My go-to? A simple cornbread—sweet, buttery, and just right. These sides turn poppers from a snack into a meal, and trust me, your guests won’t stop raving. Happy pairing!
Beverage Pairings
Since jalapeno poppers pack a spicy punch, choosing the right drink can make all the difference. I love pairing them with a cold beer—the crispness cuts through the heat, especially a light lager or a citrusy IPA. If you’re not into beer, try a margarita; the lime and sweetness balance the spice perfectly. For something non-alcoholic, a creamy horchata or a fizzy lemonade works wonders. I’ve even sipped on iced tea with a splash of honey—it’s surprisingly invigorating. Whatever you pick, make sure it cools your palate so you can enjoy every cheesy, spicy bite without missing a beat.
