Cheesy Jalapeño Poppers are a famous appetizer or snack. These delicious and spicy treats consist of fresh jalapeño peppers, filled with a mixture of cream cheese, cheddar cheese, garlic, and other seasonings. The filled peppers are then breaded and deep-fried until they are golden and crispy.
Cheesy Jalapeño Poppers
Equipment
- 1 Dutch Oven
Ingredients
- 8 jalapeño peppers
- 1/2 cup whipped cream cheese
- 1/4 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the dutch oven oven to 360ºF (182ºC).
- . Practice a paring knife to carefully cut off the jalapeño tops, then scoop out the ribs and seeds. Set aside.
- In a medium bowl, combine the whipped cream cheese and shredded Cheddar cheese. Place the mixture in a sealable plastic bag, and using a pair of scissors, cut off one corner from the bag. Gently squeeze some cream cheese mixture into each pepper until almost full.
- Place the dutch oven basket onto the baking pan.
- Slide into Rack Position 2, select Air Fry, and set time to 10minutes.
- Allow the poppers to cool for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. Place a piece of parchment paper on the bottom of the dutch oven basket and place the poppers on top, distributing evenly.
Video
Notes
Nutrition
Cooking tips
Here are some cooking tips to help you make delicious Cheesy Jalapeño Poppers:
1. Choose the right jalapeños: Select jalapeños that are firm and vibrant in color. The level of heat can vary, so consider your preference and the preferences of your guests when choosing jalapeños. You can also remove the seeds and membranes for a milder heat.
2. Wear gloves: When handling jalapeños, it’s recommended to wear gloves to protect your hands from the spicy oils. This will prevent any potential irritation or burning sensation on your skin.
3. Remove seeds and membranes: If you prefer milder poppers, remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeños. The majority of the heat resides in these parts. Use a small spoon or a jalapeño corer to scrape out the seeds and membranes.
4. Use a flavorful cheese: Choose a cheese that melts well and complements the heat of the jalapeños. Cream cheese, cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a combination of cheeses work well in jalapeño poppers. Experiment with different cheese blends to find your favorite combination.
5. Add flavor with fillings: Mix in additional flavors and ingredients to the cheese filling for extra taste. Some popular additions include cooked bacon bits, minced garlic, diced onions, or herbs like cilantro or parsley.
6. Properly seal the poppers: Make sure to seal the filled jalapeños properly to prevent the cheese from leaking out during baking. Press the halves together firmly, and you can even secure them with toothpicks to keep them intact.
7. Coat with a crispy breading: To achieve a crunchy exterior, coat the jalapeño poppers with a breadcrumb mixture or a batter. You can use seasoned breadcrumbs, panko, or even crushed cornflakes for added texture.
8. Bake or fry: Choose your preferred cooking method. Baking is a healthier option that still yields crispy poppers, while frying provides an extra crispy and indulgent texture. Follow the recipe instructions for the recommended cooking time and temperature.
9. Let them cool slightly: After cooking, allow the poppers to cool slightly before serving. This will prevent any burns from the hot cheese and jalapeños. Serve them warm, as they are best enjoyed right after cooking.
10. Serve with dipping sauces: Offer a variety of dipping sauces to accompany the Cheesy Jalapeño Poppers. Common options include ranch dressing, salsa, chipotle mayo, or sour cream. These sauces complement the flavors and provide a cooling contrast to the heat.
Remember to adjust cooking times and ingredient quantities based on your specific recipe and desired level of spiciness. With these tips in mind, you’ll be able to make delicious and perfectly cooked Cheesy Jalapeño Poppers that will be a hit at any gathering.
Serving Suggestions
Here are some serving suggestions for Cheesy Jalapeño Poppers:
1. Party appetizers: Serve Cheesy Jalapeño Poppers as a crowd-pleasing appetizer at your next party or gathering. Arrange them on a platter with toothpicks or skewers for easy serving.
2. Game day snacks: These poppers are perfect for game day gatherings. Serve them alongside other finger foods like chicken wings, nachos, or sliders for a satisfying and indulgent game day spread.
3. Dipping station: Set up a dipping station with a variety of sauces to accompany the jalapeño poppers. Offer options like ranch dressing, barbecue sauce, chipotle mayo, or a tangy salsa. Let guests choose their favorite dips.
4. Salad topper: Add a twist to your favorite salad by using Cheesy Jalapeño Poppers as a topping. The spicy and cheesy flavors will complement a fresh salad, adding an element of crunch and heat.
5. Side dish: Serve Cheesy Jalapeño Poppers as a side dish alongside grilled meats, burgers, or sandwiches. They make a delicious accompaniment that adds a pop of flavor to the main course.
6. Brunch or breakfast addition: Surprise your guests with a unique brunch item by serving Cheesy Jalapeño Poppers alongside other breakfast dishes like scrambled eggs, bacon, or breakfast burritos. It’s a spicy and savory twist on a traditional brunch spread.
7. Snack time treat: Enjoy Cheesy Jalapeño Poppers as a standalone snack. They are perfect for satisfying cravings and provide a satisfying combination of flavors and textures.
8. Late-night indulgence: These poppers make a great late-night snack option. Serve them as a tasty and comforting treat when you’re looking for something flavorful and satisfying.
Remember to adjust the serving size and quantity based on the number of guests and their preferences. Cheesy Jalapeño Poppers are versatile and can be enjoyed in various settings, so get creative and have fun exploring different serving options.