Recipe: Jalapeno Poppers ๐ถ๏ธ
Overview:
Jalapeno Poppers are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, guaranteed to make your guests sit up and take notice! Despite their fiery reputation, these poppers, with their membranes and seeds removed, strike the perfect balance between flavor and heat. Whether served as a zesty appetizer or a tantalizing snack, they are sure to be a hit at any gathering. Prepare them in advance, refrigerate, and simply pop them in the oven just before serving for effortless entertaining. Pair them with your favorite main dish or enjoy them on their own for a delightful Tex-Mex experience.
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 20 Halves
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex, Southwestern U.S., Mexican
- Category: Lunch/Snacks
- Keywords: Cheese, Vegetable, Tex Mex, Southwestern U.S., Mexican, < 60 Mins, Oven
Ingredients:
- 10 Jalapeno peppers
- 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup light cream cheese
- 1/4 cup salsa
- 3/4 cup bread crumbs
- 2 tablespoons parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions:
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Prepare the Filling:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese, light cream cheese, and salsa. Mix until well blended to create a flavorful filling.
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Add Bread Crumbs:
- Blend in 1/4 cup of bread crumbs into the filling mixture, reserving 3 tablespoons for later use. The bread crumbs add a delightful crunch to the filling.
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Fill the Jalapeno Halves:
- Carefully slice the jalapeno peppers in half lengthwise, removing the seeds and membranes to reduce the heat level. Spoon the cheese filling evenly into each pepper half, ensuring they are well-filled and packed with flavor.
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Prepare the Topping:
- In a separate bowl, toss together the remaining bread crumbs, chopped parsley, and melted butter. This flavorful topping will add a crispy texture and savory finish to the jalapeno poppers.
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Top the Peppers:
- Spoon the prepared bread crumb mixture over the filled jalapeno halves, ensuring each one is generously coated with the delicious topping.
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Bake to Perfection:
- Place the stuffed jalapeno peppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Bake in a preheated oven at 375ยฐF (190ยฐC) for approximately 20 minutes or until the tops are golden brown and crisp.
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Serve and Enjoy:
- Once baked to perfection, remove the jalapeno poppers from the oven and allow them to cool slightly before serving. Arrange them on a platter and watch as your guests indulge in these irresistible treats. Serve alongside your favorite dipping sauce or enjoy them as is for a burst of Tex-Mex flavor in every bite!
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 47.8
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 1.8g
- Cholesterol: 8.1mg
- Sodium: 86.7mg
- Carbohydrates: 3.7g
- Fiber: 0.4g
- Sugar: 0.8g
- Protein: 1.6g
Tips:
- For an extra kick of flavor, try adding diced cooked bacon or crumbled chorizo to the cheese filling mixture.
- If you prefer a milder version, substitute jalapeno peppers with mini sweet peppers for a crowd-pleasing alternative.
- Ensure to wear gloves when handling jalapeno peppers to avoid irritation from the capsaicin oils.
- Leftover jalapeno poppers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving for a quick and delicious snack.
- Experiment with different types of cheese blends, such as Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack, for a unique flavor profile.
- Serve these jalapeno poppers alongside a refreshing salsa or cool ranch dipping sauce for added zest and contrast.
Conclusion:
With their irresistible combination of cheesy goodness and spicy kick, these Jalapeno Poppers are sure to be a hit at any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a game day party, family barbecue, or casual get-together, these delicious appetizers are guaranteed to disappear fast. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to impress your guests with these flavorful Tex-Mex treats!
