Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12 jalapeno peppers (4-5 inch long)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 4 oz sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
Topping
- 1/4 cup Panko bread crumbs
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F to prepare for baking the poppers.
- Prepare Jalapenos: Wearing gloves if preferred, slice jalapenos in half lengthwise, keeping the stem intact if possible. Use a small spoon to remove the veins and seeds to reduce heat, then place them cut side up on a lined baking sheet.
- Make Cheese Filling: In a bowl, mix softened cream cheese, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder until well combined.
- Prepare Breadcrumb Topping: In a small bowl, combine Panko bread crumbs, paprika, and melted butter. Set this mixture aside.
- Stuff Jalapenos: Fill each jalapeno half with the cheese mixture, shaping it into a small cigar shape to fit snugly into each pepper shell.
- Add Topping: Evenly sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture on top of each stuffed jalapeno.
- Bake: Bake the stuffed jalapenos for 20 minutes or until the tops are golden brown and crispy.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the poppers to cool for 5 minutes before serving. Optionally, serve with Ranch dressing for dipping.
Notes
- Consider shredding your own cheddar cheese, as pre-shredded cheese often contains potato starch that can affect melting.
- You can substitute sharp cheddar with pepper jack cheese or use a blend of both for extra flavor.
- Gloves are recommended when handling jalapenos to avoid skin irritation.
- For a grilled alternative, heat a grill to medium (340-350°F) and grill poppers for 10-15 minutes.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
