Some people go to game day for the game – I got to game day for the jalapeño poppers! You know that age-old saying “There ain’t no stoppin’ jalapeño poppin’?’” No? Well, maybe it’s not a saying (yet), but after trying these irresistible babies, I’m pretty sure it will be. Making jalapeño poppers at home is easier than you might think, plus, it tastes better and is healthier than frozen ones from the supermarket or takeout.
What are jalapeño poppers?
Jalapeño poppers are a popular North American appetizer made by hollowing out jalapeño peppers and stuffing them with a delicious cheese mixture. They’re loved for their contrasts: crunch from the jalapeños meets creaminess from the cream cheese filling, the richness of the cheese balancing out the heat from the pepper. A sprinkle of chives adds freshness, and crispy bacon bits add savory depth. They can be breaded and baked or wrapped in bacon for a crispy finish. The combination of creamy, cheesy, spicy, and savory makes them irresistible! Jalapeño poppers are often enjoyed as finger food—appetizers for happy hour, game day, potlucks, barbecues, or casual gatherings. I’ve even served them at holiday gatherings and they’re a hit!
Watch how to make this appetizer
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Bacon wrapped jalapeño poppers: Wrap your jalapeño poppers in bacon before baking for a smoky, savory twist. Use one strip of bacon per popper. Thin cut works best. Crispy breaded jalapeño poppers: For an extra crispy exterior, whisk an egg in a bowl. Dip your popper in there, then coat it with breadcrumbs. Bake, pan fry, or air fry it for a crispy coating. Baby bell pepper poppers: Not only is this one fun to say, it’s a great solution if someone in your party has no tolerance for heat. Protein poppers: Add some pulled pork, or some seasoned and cooked ground beef or Italian sausage to the filling for a meatier bite – perfect for game day! Buffalo chicken jalapeño poppers: Mix in shredded chicken and a splash of buffalo sauce for a tangy, spicy, and delicious twist. Sriracha jalapeño poppers: A drizzle of sriracha turns up the heat! Mac and cheese poppers: For a fusion recipe, replace the cheese filling with cooked mac and cheese then wrap it in bacon to keep everything together before baking.
Jalapeño poppers in air fryer
Want to make these babies in your air fryer instead? It’s too easy! Follow the instructions below, but instead of putting them in the oven, place them in the air fryer at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 8-10 minutes. Avoid overcrowding them, cooking in batches if you need to. Here is a spice guide for jalapeño poppers:
No tolerance: Scoop out ALL of the seeds and membrane, and if you’re really sensitive, consider blanching the jalapeño flesh or swapping it out for baby bell peppers. A lil spicy: Leave some of the membrane, but get all of the seeds out. Spicier: If you’re feeling brave or love a tingle of heat, leave a few seeds. Can’t get enough: Leave the seeds, or add a drizzle of hot sauce or chili flakes.
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