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October 27, 2024
If you’re a fan of spicy food, jalapeno poppers are the perfect appetizer or snack to satisfy your cravings. These tasty treats are made by stuffing jalapeno peppers with a delicious mixture of cheese and sometimes bacon, then baking or frying them until they’re golden and crispy on the outside.
One of the most common questions when it comes to making jalapeno poppers is how long to cook them. The cooking time can vary depending on the method you choose and how you like your poppers. However, a general rule of thumb is to bake them in a preheated oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius) for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the peppers are tender.
If you prefer a crunchier texture, you can also fry your jalapeno poppers. Heat oil in a deep fryer or a large pan to around 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius), then carefully add the stuffed peppers and cook them for about 2-3 minutes or until they’re golden brown.
Whether you choose to bake or fry your jalapeno poppers, it’s important to handle the peppers with care, as they can be quite spicy. To minimize the heat, you can remove the seeds and membranes before stuffing them, or wear gloves when handling the peppers. And don’t forget to serve them with your favorite dipping sauce, like ranch or sour cream, to complement the spicy flavors.
Preparation
To prepare jalapeno poppers, you will need the following ingredients:
- 12 jalapeno peppers
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 12 slices bacon, cut in half
Step 1: Prepare the Jalapenos
Wash the jalapeno peppers thoroughly and cut off the stems. Slice each pepper in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes. Be sure to wear gloves to protect your hands from the spicy oils.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
In a bowl, mix together the cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
Tip: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your taste.
Step 3: Stuff the Jalapenos
Spoon the cream cheese mixture into each jalapeno half, filling them evenly.
Step 4: Wrap with Bacon
Wrap each cream cheese-stuffed jalapeno half with a half slice of bacon, making sure to secure it with a toothpick.
Note: You can either pre-cook the bacon until partially done or leave it raw for a crispier finish.
Pro tip: If using raw bacon, place the toothpick through the bacon first, and then through the jalapeno to ensure it stays in place while baking.
Once all the poppers are stuffed and wrapped, you are ready to cook them!
Ingredients
For the jalapeno poppers, you will need:
- 12 fresh jalapeno peppers
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 12 slices bacon
Note: You can adjust the amount of jalapeno peppers based on your personal preference for spice.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Here is a step-by-step guide on how to cook jalapeno poppers:
| Step 1: | Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). |
| Step 2: | Cut the jalapeno peppers in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes. |
| Step 3: | In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, minced garlic, and any additional desired seasonings. |
| Step 4: | Fill each jalapeno half with the cream cheese mixture. |
| Step 5: | In a separate bowl, beat the eggs until well combined. |
| Step 6: | Dip each filled jalapeno half into the beaten eggs, making sure to coat all sides. |
| Step 7: | Roll the egg-coated jalapeno halves in breadcrumbs until evenly coated. |
| Step 8: | Place the coated jalapeno halves on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. |
| Step 9: | Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the jalapeno poppers are golden brown and crispy. |
| Step 10: | Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving. |
Enjoy your homemade jalapeno poppers!
Tips and Variations
Here are some tips and variations you can try when making jalapeno poppers:
| Tips |
| 1. Experiment with different types of cheese for the filling. Cream cheese, cheddar, and pepper jack are popular options. |
| 2. If you prefer a milder flavor, remove the seeds and ribs from the jalapenos before stuffing them. |
| 3. For extra flavor, wrap the stuffed jalapenos with bacon before baking. |
| 4. Make sure to wear gloves when handling the jalapenos to protect your skin from the heat. |
| Variations |
| 1. Add cooked and crumbled sausage to the cream cheese filling for a heartier option. |
| 2. Substitute jalapenos with other types of peppers, such as poblano or banana peppers, for a different flavor profile. |
| 3. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top of the jalapeno poppers before baking for an extra cheesy crust. |
| 4. Serve the jalapeno poppers with a dipping sauce, such as ranch or sour cream, for added richness. |
Serving Suggestions
Once your jalapeno poppers are cooked and ready to serve, there are a few different ways you can enjoy them. Here are some serving suggestions:
- As an appetizer: Serve the jalapeno poppers on a platter with toothpicks for easy grabbing. They make a great finger food for parties and gatherings.
- With dips: Pair the jalapeno poppers with a selection of dips such as sour cream, ranch dressing, or salsa. The creamy dips help balance out the heat of the peppers.
- On a burger: If you’re feeling adventurous, add a jalapeno popper or two to your favorite burger. The spicy kick from the poppers can take a burger to the next level.
- Alongside grilled meats: Jalapeno poppers make a delicious accompaniment to grilled meats like steak, chicken, or pork. The heat from the poppers adds a nice contrast to the smoky flavors of the grilled meat.
- In a wrap: Cut the jalapeno poppers into smaller pieces and use them as a filling in a wrap or burrito. They add a burst of flavor and spice to any wrap combination.
These are just a few ideas for serving jalapeno poppers. Get creative and experiment with different combinations to find your favorite way to enjoy these spicy treats!
Q&A
How long should I cook jalepeno poppers for?
Jalepeno poppers should be cooked for about 15-20 minutes until they are golden brown and the cheese filling is melted and bubbly.
What temperature should I set my oven to for cooking jalepeno poppers?
You should preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) for cooking jalepeno poppers.
Can I cook jalepeno poppers in an air fryer?
Yes, you can cook jalepeno poppers in an air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook the poppers for about 8-10 minutes, or until crispy and the cheese is melted.
What is the best way to cook jalepeno poppers on a grill?
To cook jalepeno poppers on a grill, preheat the grill to medium heat. Place the poppers directly on the grill grates and cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the bacon is crispy and the cheese is melted.
Can I bake jalepeno poppers instead of frying them?
Yes, you can bake jalepeno poppers instead of frying them. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and arrange the poppers on a baking sheet. Bake for about 15-20 minutes until they are golden brown and the cheese filling is melted.
How long do you cook jalepeno poppers in the oven?
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the jalepeno poppers on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and the cheese is melted and bubbly.