Jalapeno Poppers — Baked Not Fried
Skip the fryer, not the flavor! These baked jalapeno poppers are creamy, cheesy, and perfectly crispy.
Jalapeno Poppers — Baked Not Fried
Skip the fryer, not the flavor! These baked jalapeno poppers are creamy, cheesy, and perfectly crispy.
Key move
Remove the seeds and ribs from the jalapenos for a milder, more enjoyable heat.
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The Setup
- Baking Sheet
- Mixing Bowl
The Mise en Place
5 of 9Your prep station before cooking begins
The Spice Blend (0/4)
The Pantry (0/1)
Jalapenos are too spicy.
Be extra thorough when removing the seeds and ribs. You can also soak the jalapeno halves in milk for 30 minutes before filling.
Cheese is not melting properly.
Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing. Also, ensure your oven is preheated to the correct temperature.
Chef's Notes
For easier handling, wear gloves when seeding jalapenos. A quick rinse under cold water can also help remove some heat.
Assemble poppers up to 2 days ahead. Store covered in the fridge. Bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes.
Serve hot with a side of ranch or sour cream for a cooling contrast to the spicy jalapenos.
The Method
PREHEAT
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Oven is preheated to 400°F (200°C).
PREPARE
Prep aheadHalve jalapenos (8 whole) lengthwise and remove seeds and ribs. This will reduce the heat.
Scorch risk: Reductions can go from perfect to burnt fast. Keep an eye on the bottom and stir if needed.
Jalapeno halves are seeded and deveined.
MIX
Prep aheadIn a bowl, combine softened cream cheese (½ cups), cheddar cheese (½ cups), and Monterey Jack cheese (¼ cups).
Cheese mixture is smooth and well combined.
FILL
Prep aheadFill each jalapeno half with the cheese mixture.
Jalapeno halves are evenly filled with cheese mixture.
MIX
Prep aheadIn a separate bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs (½ cups), garlic powder (½ tsp), paprika (¼ tsp), salt (¼ tsp), and pepper.
Panko mixture is evenly seasoned.
TOP
Prep aheadTop each cheese-filled jalapeno with the panko mixture.
Jalapenos are coated with panko mixture.
BAKE
Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Jalapenos are golden brown and cheese is melted and bubbly.
SERVE
Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!
Poppers have cooled slightly and are ready to serve.
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