1. Are jalapeno poppers with cheddar cheese spicy?

Jalapeno poppers with cheddar cheese can have a mild to moderate level of spice, depending on how much of the seeds and membranes you remove from the jalapenos. For a milder flavor, be sure to de-seed and remove the membranes completely. If you like more heat, leave a few seeds inside or use hotter peppers like serrano.

2. Can I make these jalapeno poppers with cheddar cheese ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the jalapeno poppers ahead of time. Stuff the jalapenos with the cheese mixture and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. This makes them an ideal option for parties or gatherings, as you can save time by doing most of the work in advance.

3. Can I make a vegetarian version of jalapeno poppers with cheddar cheese?

Absolutely! To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the bacon and consider adding extra seasonings, like onion powder or garlic powder, to enhance the flavor. You could also substitute the bacon with crispy fried onions or another vegetarian option to keep the poppers savory.

4. How do I store and reheat leftover jalapeno poppers with cheddar cheese?

To store leftover jalapeno poppers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F for about 5-10 minutes or until heated through. You can also use the microwave for individual portions.

Jalapeno Poppers with Cheddar Cheese

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Cheddar Cheese
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 10 fresh jalapeno peppers, halved and seeded; 1 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled; 3 tablespoons crushed chips (your choice of flavor, optional); Chopped cilantro, parsley, or chives for garnish (optional)

Description

Jalapeno poppers with cheddar cheese are a delicious appetizer, combining the creamy goodness of cheddar cheese, the smoky flavor of bacon, and the slight heat of jalapenos. These bite-sized treats are perfect for parties, game days, or casual get-togethers, offering a satisfying crunch and savory taste in every bite.

Ingredients

Scale

10 fresh jalapeno peppers, halved and seeded
1 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese
8 oz cream cheese, softened
6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
3 tablespoons crushed chips (your choice of flavor, optional)
Chopped cilantro, parsley, or chives for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Transfer to a paper towel to drain excess grease.
In a bowl, combine grated cheddar cheese, cream cheese, and crumbled bacon. Stir until smooth and well-mixed.
Slice the jalapenos in half lengthwise, removing the seeds and membranes to reduce heat.
Fill each jalapeno half with the cheese and bacon mixture.
Place the stuffed jalapenos on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the tops are golden brown.
Sprinkle crushed chips on top of the poppers for added crunch, and garnish with cilantro, parsley, or chives if desired.
Serve immediately, optionally with ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.

Notes

Wear gloves while handling jalapenos to avoid irritation from the pepper oils.
If you prefer a milder heat, make sure to remove all seeds and membranes from the jalapenos.
For a twist, wrap the stuffed jalapenos with bacon before baking.
Make ahead: Stuff the jalapenos and refrigerate until ready to bake. You can also prepare the cheese mixture in advance and store it in the fridge.
For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free chips or breadcrumbs.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 popper
Calories: 101 kcal
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 158mg
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 1g
Carbohydrates: 1g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 4g
Cholesterol: 21mg