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- 12 fresh jalapeño peppers - 8 oz cream cheese, softened - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika - 1/2 teaspoon onion powder - 1/2 teaspoon salt - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional) - 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko) - Olive oil for drizzling Baked jalapeño poppers need fresh ingredients for the best taste. You want to select firm, bright green jalapeños. Avoid any that have soft spots or wrinkles. Cream cheese gives the poppers a creamy texture. Shredded cheddar adds flavor and richness. For extra flavor, garlic, smoked paprika, and onion powder enhance the cheese mixture. Salt and black pepper bring everything together. Fresh cilantro can add a nice touch, but it’s optional. The topping is key for that crunch. Panko breadcrumbs work well because they are light and crispy. A drizzle of olive oil helps them brown nicely in the oven. For the full recipe, you can check the details and tips included. Enjoy making these tasty snacks! - First, preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking sheet. - Next, cut each jalapeño in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes. This step is key. It helps control the heat. You can use a spoon or a small knife for this. - In a bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, and spices. - Add minced garlic, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. If you like, toss in chopped cilantro for fresh flavor. Make sure the mixture is well combined. - Use a small spoon or piping bag to fill each jalapeño half with the cheese mixture. - In another bowl, coat breadcrumbs with a drizzle of olive oil. Then sprinkle this mixture on top of the cheese-filled jalapeños. This adds a nice crunch. - Place the filled jalapeños on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes. Look for bubbly cheese and golden brown breadcrumbs. Enjoy the wonderful aroma! This is how you make tasty baked jalapeño poppers. Check out the Full Recipe for more details and tips! To get that great crunch, I always use panko breadcrumbs. They give a light, crispy texture that regular breadcrumbs can’t match. Drizzle olive oil evenly over the breadcrumbs. This helps them brown nicely as they bake. If you want milder poppers, remove all the seeds and membranes from the jalapeños. This cuts down the heat. For those who love spice, add more spices or a splash of hot sauce to the cheese mix. You can always adjust to your taste! These poppers shine when paired with sour cream or guacamole. They cool the heat and add creaminess. Fresh cilantro makes a lovely garnish. It adds color and a fresh taste. For the full recipe, check out the recipe section above. {{image_2}} You can change the filling to make your jalapeño poppers even better. Instead of cheddar cheese, use pepper jack cheese. This cheese adds a nice kick. If you want a meaty popper, add cooked bacon or sausage. Both options make the dish hearty and tasty. Switch up your toppings for a fun twist! Try using goat cheese instead of cheddar. Goat cheese gives a creamy texture and tangy flavor. You can also add finely chopped veggies, like bell peppers or onions. This gives your poppers extra crunch and color. Pair your poppers with great dips for added flavor! Homemade ranch dressing is a classic choice. It’s cool and creamy. For a spicy kick, try sriracha or a spicy aioli. These sauces make every bite exciting. Check out the Full Recipe for more ideas! To keep your poppers fresh, place them in an airtight container. You can store them in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to save them longer, freeze the uncooked poppers. When you're ready to enjoy them, bake them straight from the freezer. To reheat your baked jalapeño poppers, I recommend using the oven. Set it to 350°F (175°C). This method helps keep them crispy. If you’re short on time, you can use the microwave. Just know that they might lose some of their crunch with this method. Total time is approximately 35 minutes, including prep. You’ll spend about 15 minutes getting everything ready. Then, you bake them for 20 to 25 minutes. This gives you time to prepare your favorite dips! Yes, prepare and freeze them before baking for convenient appetizers. Just fill the jalapeños, then place them in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to serve, bake them straight from the freezer. They will still taste fresh and yummy! Check the breadcrumbs to ensure they are gluten-free for dietary needs. Many brands offer gluten-free options. Always read the labels to be sure. This way, everyone can enjoy these tasty bites! Baked jalapeño poppers are easy and fun to make. You start with fresh jalapeños and fill them with a creamy cheese mix. Add spices and breadcrumbs for crunch. Don't forget your dips for serving! These tasty snacks are great for parties or movie nights. With endless filling options, you can create your own version. Enjoy making and sharing them with friends!

Baked Jalapeño Poppers

Get ready to spice up your snack game with these delicious Spicy Cheesy Jalapeño Poppers! With creamy cheese, fresh jalapeños, and a crispy breadcrumb topping, these poppers are the perfect appetizer for any gathering. Simple to make and bursting with flavor, they’ll be a hit with friends and family.
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Ingredients
  

12 fresh jalapeño peppers

8 oz cream cheese, softened

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional)

Olive oil for drizzling

Instructions
 

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

    Carefully cut each jalapeño in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes using a spoon or small knife.

      In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, minced garlic, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cilantro (if using). Mix until well combined.

        Using a small spoon or a piping bag, fill each jalapeño half generously with the cheese mixture.

          In a separate bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with a drizzle of olive oil until they are evenly coated.

            Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the cheese-filled jalapeños for added crunch.

              Arrange the filled jalapeños on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.

                Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 mins | 35 mins | 6 servings

                    - Presentation Tips: Serve on a large platter, garnished with extra cilantro leaves and a side of sour cream or guacamole for dipping.