Crispy Jalapeño Cheese Poppers

Jalapeño poppers have become a beloved staple in various cuisines, transcending borders and delighting palates across the globe. These bite-sized delights are famed for their ability to combine the heat of spicy jalapeños with a luscious, cheesy filling, often encased in a crispy coating. Whether served at a barbecue, a game day gathering, or as a standalone snack, jalapeño poppers are always a hit. Among the myriad of recipes available, the Spicy Crunchy Jalapeño Cheese Poppers stand out as a perfect appetizer or snack, combining an irresistible crunch with a burst of flavor that keeps you coming back for more.

Discover the delicious world of Spicy Crunchy Jalapeño Cheese Poppers, the ultimate snack that blends the heat of jalapeños with a creamy cheese filling and a perfectly crispy coating. Ideal for any gathering, these poppers are packed with flavor and offer the perfect crunch in every bite. Learn how to make these easy appetizers with a few simple steps, and customize them to suit your tastes. Perfect for game days or parties, they're sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

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Ingredients

12 fresh jalapeños

8 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp onion powder

1/2 tsp smoked paprika

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 cup all-purpose flour

2 large eggs, beaten

1 cup panko bread crumbs

Vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions

Prep the Jalapeños: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Carefully slice each jalapeño in half lengthwise, making sure to remove the seeds and membranes for a milder flavor. It’s advisable to wear gloves during this process to prevent any irritation from the jalapeños.

Make the Cheese Filling: In a mixing bowl, blend together the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly combined and creamy.

Stuff the Jalapeños: Use a small spoon or a piping bag to generously fill each jalapeño half with the cheesy filling, ensuring that they are well-stuffed.

Set Up a Breading Station: Prepare three shallow dishes: place the all-purpose flour in the first dish, whisk the eggs in the second dish until well combined, and pour the panko bread crumbs into the third dish.

Coat Each Jalapeño: For each stuffed jalapeño, begin by dipping it in the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, immerse it in the beaten eggs, making sure it’s fully coated. Finally, roll it in the panko bread crumbs, pressing gently to ensure the crumbs adhere well.

Fry the Poppers: In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat vegetable oil over medium heat until it reaches around 350°F (175°C) and begins to shimmer. Carefully add the breaded jalapeños in batches, frying them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the poppers to a plate that has been lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.

Bake for Extra Crispiness (Optional): If you desire a crunchier texture, after frying, place the poppers in the preheated oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes.

Serve: Enjoy your crispy jalapeño cheese poppers immediately while they're hot, paired with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch dressing, spicy aioli, or zesty salsa for an added kick.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 minutes | 30 minutes | Serves 4-6