Spicy and Delicious Homemade Jalapeño Poppers

Ingredients

  • 12 large jalapeño peppers
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup crispy bacon bits
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon pepper
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1.5 cups panko breadcrumbs
  • Cooking oil for deep frying

Steps and instructions

  1. Put on gloves to protect your hands from the jalapeño oils. Slice each jalapeño pepper in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds and membranes.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, cheddar cheese, bacon bits, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
  3. Fill each jalapeño half with the cheese mixture.
  4. Set up a breading station with three bowls: one for the flour, one for the beaten eggs, and one for the panko breadcrumbs.
  5. Dip each stuffed jalapeño first in the flour, shaking off any excess, then in the egg, and finally coat well in the breadcrumbs.
  6. Heat the oil in a deep pan or deep fryer to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
  7. Fry the jalapeño poppers in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 3-4 minutes, or until golden brown.
  8. Use a slotted spoon to remove the poppers from the oil and drain on a paper towel-lined plate. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Tools for making

  • Gloves - to protect your hands from the jalapeño oils
  • Mixing bowl - for combining the cream cheese, cheddar cheese, bacon bits, and seasonings
  • Baking sheet - for placing the stuffed jalapeño poppers before frying
  • Deep pan or deep fryer - for frying the jalapeño poppers
  • Slotted spoon - for removing the fried poppers from the oil
  • Paper towels - for draining the fried poppers

Recipe variations

  • Use different types of cheese such as pepper jack, mozzarella, or Gouda for a variation in flavor.
  • Add diced jalapeños or other peppers to the cheese mixture for an extra kick.
  • Wrap each stuffed jalapeño in a slice of bacon before breading and frying for a bacon-wrapped version.
  • Instead of panko breadcrumbs, try crushed tortilla chips, cornflakes, or crushed pretzels for a different crust texture.
  • For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs or substitute with almond flour or cornmeal.
  • Make a vegetarian version by omitting the bacon and adding finely chopped veggies like bell peppers, onions, or corn to the cheese mixture.
  • Experiment with different dipping sauces such as ranch dressing, chipotle mayo, or sweet chili sauce.
  • Add cooked and seasoned ground meat like sausage or chicken to the cheese mixture for a meaty twist.
  • For a healthier option, try baking the jalapeño poppers in the oven instead of deep frying them.

Recipe overview

Enjoy the perfect balance of spicy, creamy, and crispy with these homemade Jalapeño Poppers. Stuffed with a rich, creamy cheese and bacon filling, then breaded and deep fried to a golden perfection, these poppers are a surefire hit for any gathering or game day snack. This recipe takes you through the process step by step, ensuring you get the perfect crunch and flavor each time. Be prepared for these to disappear quickly - they're irresistibly delicious!

Common questions

  1. Can I use mild jalapeños instead of the large ones? Yes, you can use mild jalapeños if you prefer a milder heat. Adjust the baking time accordingly.
  2. Can I use a different type of cheese? Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack, mozzarella, or even blue cheese for a unique twist.
  3. Can I bake these instead of frying? Yes, you can bake the jalapeño poppers. Preheat the oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the poppers are golden and the cheese is bubbly.
  4. What can I use instead of bacon bits? If you don't have bacon bits, you can use cooked and crumbled bacon or even diced ham as a substitute.
  5. Can I make these ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the stuffed jalapeños ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Bread and fry them just before serving for the best results.
  6. How can I make these poppers less spicy? To reduce the heat, you can remove the seeds and white membranes from the jalapeños, as they contain most of the spiciness. Alternatively, you can use mild jalapeños or substitute them with mini sweet peppers.

Serving dishes and utensils

Origin stories

Jalapeño Poppers, despite their spicy Mexican-sounding name, were actually born in the United States. They first gained popularity in Texas and the Southwest, where the culture has been heavily influenced by its proximity to Mexico. Interestingly, the term "popper" has been a registered trademark of the frozen snack food company, Anchor Food Products, since the 1990s. This zesty appetizer is a favorite at American sports bars and casual dining restaurants. It's also become an iconic Super Bowl snack, symbolizing the fusion of American and Mexican cuisines. So the next time you bite into a crunchy, cheesy Jalapeño Popper, remember you're not just enjoying a delicious snack, you're also savoring a piece of cultural culinary fusion.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.