Description
Golden Jalapeno Poppers are a deliciously spicy and creamy appetizer featuring fresh jalapenos stuffed with a rich blend of cream cheese, cheddar, garlic powder, and chives. Coated with a crispy panko and butter mixture seasoned with smoked paprika, these poppers bake to golden perfection for a crunchy, flavorful bite that’s perfect for parties or snack time.
Ingredients
Jalapeno Poppers
- 12 jalapenos, halved lengthwise and seeded
- 8 oz cream cheese (Philadelphia recommended for creamier texture)
- 1.5 tsp garlic powder
- 5 oz cheddar cheese, freshly grated (Tillamook preferred for better melting)
- 3 tbsp chives, chopped
Coating
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (Kikkoman brand recommended for best crunch)
- 1.5 tbsp butter, melted and cooled slightly
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
Instructions
- Prepare jalapenos: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the jalapenos in half lengthwise and carefully remove the seeds and membranes to reduce heat.
- Make filling: In a medium bowl, combine the cream cheese, garlic powder, grated cheddar cheese, and chopped chives. Mix well until smooth and fully integrated.
- Stuff jalapenos: Using a spoon, fill each jalapeno half with the cheese mixture, pressing slightly to fill fully without overflow.
- Prepare coating: In a separate bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with the melted butter and smoked paprika until the crumbs are evenly coated.
- Coat poppers: Gently press the top of each stuffed jalapeno into the panko mixture to coat the cheese filling with a generous crumb layer.
- Bake: Arrange the poppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes or until the jalapenos are tender and the coating is golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Let the poppers cool for a few minutes before serving warm as a perfect appetizer or snack.
Notes
- For less heat, remove all the seeds and white membranes from the jalapenos.
- Use freshly grated cheddar for better melting and flavor.
- Allow the melted butter to cool slightly before mixing with panko to avoid soggy breadcrumbs.
- Serve with ranch or blue cheese dressing for extra flavor.
- Can be prepared ahead and refrigerated before coating and baking.
