Cheese-Stuffed Jalapeño Poppers
These Cheese-Stuffed Jalapeño Poppers are crispy on the outside and irresistibly creamy on the inside. Fresh jalapeños are filled with a rich blend of cream cheese, cheddar, and savory seasonings, coated in breadcrumbs, and fried until perfectly golden. They're the ultimate appetizer for parties, game day, or any gathering.
Equipment
- mixing bowl
- Deep frying pan or Dutch oven
- slotted spoon
- knife
- cutting board
- paper towels
Ingredients
- 12 fresh jalapeños
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions
- Cut each jalapeño in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes using a spoon. Leave a few seeds if you prefer extra heat.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper until smooth and well blended.
- Using a small spoon or piping bag, generously fill each jalapeño half with the cheese mixture.
- Press the cheese-filled side of each jalapeño into the breadcrumbs until evenly coated, gently pressing so the crumbs adhere.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully fry the stuffed jalapeños in batches for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pan.
- Transfer the fried poppers to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve warm with ranch dressing or your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
For extra heat, leave some of the jalapeño seeds intact before stuffing. You can also bake the poppers at 400°F for 20–25 minutes or air fry at 375°F for 10–12 minutes for a lighter version. Serve warm with ranch dressing, chipotle mayo, or your favorite dipping sauce.