Description
These bite-sized Cheesy Jalapeño Popper Bites are the ultimate game day snack, featuring a creamy cream cheese and cheddar filling inside fresh jalapeños, topped with crunchy panko breadcrumbs.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 large fresh jalapeño peppers
- 8 oz full-fat block-style cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
- 1/2 cup crispy cooked bacon, crumbled finely
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp butter, melted (for toasting panko)
- 1 tbsp mayonnaise
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a half-sheet baking pan with parchment paper or foil.
- Put on kitchen gloves. Wash jalapeños, slice off the tops leaving about 1/4 inch of stem, and scoop out seeds and white membranes using a small spoon or melon baller to create a hollow cup shape.
- Optional: Blanch hollowed peppers in boiling water for 2 minutes, then drain and pat dry. Let cool.
- In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, crumbled bacon, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, mayonnaise, and green onions. Mix until smooth.
- Place the filling in a piping bag or Ziploc bag with the corner cut off. Pipe the filling into each pepper, mounding it slightly on top.
- In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and a pinch of salt. Sprinkle generously over each stuffed pepper.
- Bake for 15-18 minutes until peppers are tender and topping is golden brown. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
Always wear gloves when handling jalapeños to avoid skin irritation. Ensure cream cheese is fully softened to prevent lumps. Do not overfill peppers to prevent cheese from leaking and burning. For extra crispiness, broil for the last 1-2 minutes while watching closely.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1-2 bites per servin
- Calories: 175
- Sugar: 1
- Sodium: 250
- Fat: 14
- Saturated Fat: 7
- Carbohydrates: 6
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 6
Keywords: jalapeño poppers, game day snacks, appetizers, spicy snacks, cheese stuffed peppers, party food, finger food