Baked Jalapeno Poppers: Easy Cheesy Spicy Party Appetizer
Baked Jalapeno Poppers: The Ultimate Oven-Baked Appetizer
Baked jalapeno poppers are the perfect blend of creamy cheese, spicy jalapeño, and crispy bacon to spice up any gathering. Embrace the easy prep and bake method that cuts out frying but keeps all that gooey, cheesy goodness. Ideal for game nights, BBQs, or a quick snack, this easy appetizer will steal the show.
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Ingredients for Perfect Baked Jalapeño Poppers
- 12 large fresh jalapeño peppers, halved lengthwise
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Cooking spray
- Optional: 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- Optional garnish: chopped fresh cilantro or green onions
Step-by-Step Instructions for Baked Jalapeno Poppers
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly coat with cooking spray.
- Slice each jalapeño pepper lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes with a spoon, adjusting the heat to your preference.
- In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika until smooth.
- Using a small spoon or piping bag, fill each jalapeño half with the cheese mixture, creating a little mound on top.
- Sprinkle crumbled bacon over the poppers if desired, then place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 18–20 minutes, or until the cheese filling is bubbly and the jalapeños are tender.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions before serving.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 137 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Fat: 10 g (Saturated Fat 6 g)
- Sodium: 163 mg
- Fiber: 1 g
- Sugar: 2 g
Tips & Variations for Cheesy Stuffed Poppers
- Mild Version: Swap jalapeños for poblano peppers to reduce the heat.
- Extra Crunch: Top with panko breadcrumbs before baking for a crispy crust.
- Meat-Lovers: Wrap each popper in bacon strips for an indulgent twist.
- Vegetarian: Omit bacon and stir in diced bell peppers to the cheese mix.
With these simple steps, you’ll master the beloved baked jalapeno poppers—an appetizer that’s easy to make, endlessly customizable, and sure to impress your guests.
Baked Jalapeno Poppers
These baked jalapeno poppers forgo frying but keep all the creamy goodness of Cheddar and cream cheese in this easy-to-prep, popular appetizer.
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly coat with cooking spray.
- Slice each jalapeño pepper lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes with a spoon, adjusting the heat to your preference.
- In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika until smooth.
- Using a small spoon or piping bag, fill each jalapeño half with the cheese mixture, creating a little mound on top.
- Sprinkle crumbled bacon over the poppers if desired, then place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 18–20 minutes, or until the cheese filling is bubbly and the jalapeños are tender.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions before serving.
Nutrition
Calories: 137kcalCarbohydrates: 8gProtein: 6gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 31mgSodium: 163mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2g
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
Original recipe: Allrecipes
