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Easy Baked Jalapeño Poppers with Cream Cheese Filling

Six baked jalapeño poppers stuffed with creamy cheese filling and topped with browned, melted cheese.
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Make these simple baked jalapeño poppers for a spicy and cheesy appetizer perfect for game night or parties. Control the heat by properly seeding the peppers.

Ingredients

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  • 12 fresh jalapeño peppers
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter
  • Optional: 12 slices bacon, halved (for bacon wrapped poppers)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Prepare the jalapeños: Cut each pepper in half lengthwise. Use a small spoon or knife to carefully scoop out the seeds and white membranes. Wear gloves if you have sensitive skin.
  3. Make the filling: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt. Mix until smooth and fully combined.
  4. Fill the peppers: Spoon or pipe the cheese mixture evenly into each jalapeño half. Do not overfill.
  5. Prepare for baking: If making plain poppers, place the filled halves on the prepared baking sheet. If making bacon wrapped poppers, wrap each filled half tightly with a half-slice of bacon, securing it with a toothpick if necessary.
  6. Add the topping: In a small bowl, toss the panko breadcrumbs with the melted butter. Sprinkle the buttered breadcrumbs evenly over the tops of the filled peppers.
  7. Bake: Bake for 18 to 22 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese filling is hot and slightly browned. If using bacon, cook until the bacon is crisp.
  8. Cool slightly before serving. Remove toothpicks before serving bacon wrapped versions.

Notes

  • Wear gloves when handling jalapeños to prevent skin irritation from the capsaicin.
  • For less heat, remove all white pith and seeds from the peppers. For more heat, leave some seeds inside.
  • You can substitute Monterey Jack cheese for cheddar if you prefer a milder flavor.

Nutrition

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