Recipe: Baked Jalapeno Poppers
Introduction
If you are a fan of spicy food and love appetizers, then baked jalapeno poppers are the perfect treat for you. These delicious bite-sized snacks are packed with flavor and are surprisingly easy to make. Whether you are hosting a party or simply want to enjoy a tasty snack, this recipe will surely impress your taste buds.
Ingredients
To make baked jalapeno poppers, you will need the following ingredients:
- 12 fresh jalapeno peppers
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Cooking spray
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Jalapenos
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Wash the jalapeno peppers thoroughly and cut off the stems. Slice each pepper in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes. This step will help reduce the spiciness of the poppers.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are fully incorporated.
Step 3: Fill the Jalapenos
Using a spoon or a piping bag, fill each jalapeno half with the cream cheese mixture. Make sure to distribute the filling evenly among all the peppers.
Step 4: Coat with Breadcrumbs
In a separate bowl, mix the breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese. Take each filled jalapeno half and press it firmly into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring that the coating sticks to the cream cheese filling.
Step 5: Bake the Poppers
Place the coated jalapeno poppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly spray the poppers with cooking spray to help them brown and crisp up in the oven. Bake for approximately 20-25 minutes or until the poppers are golden brown and the filling is hot and bubbly.
Serving Suggestions
Baked jalapeno poppers are best served hot and crispy. You can enjoy them as they are or pair them with a dipping sauce of your choice. Some popular options include ranch dressing, sour cream, or even a spicy salsa. These poppers make a great appetizer for parties, game nights, or simply as a snack while watching your favorite movie.
Conclusion
With their irresistible combination of heat and cheesy goodness, baked jalapeno poppers are a crowd-pleasing treat that will leave everyone wanting more. This easy-to-follow recipe allows you to enjoy this classic appetizer without the hassle of deep-frying. So, gather your ingredients, put on your chef hat, and get ready to impress your friends and family with these delicious baked jalapeno poppers!