Jalapeno Poppers with Cream Cheese and Chives
Highlighted under: Warm Inspiration
I absolutely love making Jalapeno Poppers with Cream Cheese and Chives for parties or just as a quick snack at home. The combination of spicy jalapenos and the creamy, tangy filling is irresistible! Each bite is a perfect balance of heat and richness. Over the years, I’ve perfected my method to ensure that the jalapenos stay crisp while the filling becomes wonderfully creamy. Trust me, once you try these poppers, you’ll find them to be a must-have for any gathering.
When I first tried Jalapeno Poppers, I was blown away by how delicious and addictive they could be! The crispiness of the jalapeno combined with the creamy filling transforms this simple appetizer into something extraordinary. After experimenting with various spices, I discovered that a hint of garlic powder gives the cream cheese a depth of flavor that truly elevates the dish.
One of my favorite tips is to let the poppers cool slightly before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully and makes for a more enjoyable eating experience. Every time I make these, they disappear in minutes!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The perfect combination of spicy and creamy flavors
- Quick to prepare, making them ideal for any gathering
- Customizable with your favorite herbs or spices
Perfecting the Filling
The filling for jalapeno poppers is essential to achieving that creamy texture and rich flavor. The blend of cream cheese and sharp cheddar cheese gives it a tangy edge, while the garlic powder adds depth. Make sure to fully soften the cream cheese, as this allows for an even mix without lumps. A hand mixer or spatula can help you achieve a glossy and uniform consistency, ensuring that each jalapeno half receives the same delicious flavor profile.
Chives are a fantastic addition, offering a mild onion flavor that complements the spiciness of the jalapenos. If you're looking for variations, you can easily swap chives for fresh cilantro or green onions. For a bolder kick, consider mixing in some crumbled blue cheese or diced cooked bacon to take your poppers to a whole new level!
Baking for the Perfect Texture
Baking at 375°F (190°C) is ideal for jalapeno poppers, as it tenderizes the jalapenos while crisping the breadcrumbs. Another tip is to keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of baking; they’re done when the breadcrumbs are golden brown and the jalapenos are tender yet still firm. Baking them for too long can result in soggy jalapenos, so aim for the sweet spot of about 15 minutes, then check for doneness.
Using a baking sheet lined with parchment paper will not only make cleanup easier but also prevent sticking. If you notice that the bottoms are browning too quickly, consider flipping the poppers halfway through the bake to get an even crisp on all sides. Trust me, this small step can elevate your jalapeno poppers to restaurant-quality!
Ingredients
For the Poppers
- 12 large jalapenos
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup chives, chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
Make sure to wear gloves while handling jalapenos to avoid irritation!
Instructions
Prepare the Jalapenos
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice each jalapeno in half lengthwise, removing the seeds and membranes for a milder flavor.
Mix the Filling
In a bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, chives, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until well mixed.
Stuff the Jalapenos
Spoon the cream cheese mixture into each jalapeno half. Press the mixture in to ensure it is packed tightly.
Coat with Breadcrumbs
Roll each stuffed jalapeno in breadcrumbs to coat evenly, then place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake the Poppers
Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until the jalapenos are tender and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.
Let the poppers cool for a few minutes before serving.
Pro Tips
- For an extra kick, consider adding cooked bacon bits to the cream cheese mixture or topping the poppers with a drizzle of hot sauce before serving.
Storing and Reheating
If you have leftovers (which is rare!), store the poppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the texture as crisp as possible, you might want to reheat them in the oven instead of the microwave, as microwaving can make them soggy. Simply preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through and crispy again.
You can also freeze unbaked jalapeno poppers. Just prepare them up to the breadcrumb coating step, then freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 2 months. Bake them straight from the freezer, adding an extra 5-10 minutes of bake time for perfectly cooked poppers.
Variations to Try
Feel free to get creative with your ingredient choices! For a spicier kick, incorporate some diced jalapenos or hot sauce into the cream cheese filling. Alternatively, swap the cream cheese for a vegan cheese substitute for a lighter, plant-based version of this recipe. Just be sure to choose a brand that melts well, as getting that gooey texture is crucial for the poppers.
You can also experiment with different coatings. Instead of traditional breadcrumbs, try using crushed tortilla chips or panko for a varied crunch. Adding seasonings like smoked paprika or Italian herbs to the coating can also enhance the flavor profile of the poppers. Each twist adds a unique taste experience while keeping the essence of jalapeno poppers intact!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make Jalapeno Poppers in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the poppers ahead of time and refrigerate them. Bake just before serving for best results.
→ Are Jalapeno Poppers spicy?
Jalapeno Poppers can be spicy, but you can mitigate the heat by removing the seeds and membranes from the jalapenos.
→ What can I serve with Jalapeno Poppers?
They pair great with ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping, as well as a refreshing salsa.
→ Can I freeze Jalapeno Poppers?
Yes, you can freeze them after assembling. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Jalapeno Poppers with Cream Cheese and Chives
I absolutely love making Jalapeno Poppers with Cream Cheese and Chives for parties or just as a quick snack at home. The combination of spicy jalapenos and the creamy, tangy filling is irresistible! Each bite is a perfect balance of heat and richness. Over the years, I’ve perfected my method to ensure that the jalapenos stay crisp while the filling becomes wonderfully creamy. Trust me, once you try these poppers, you’ll find them to be a must-have for any gathering.
Created by: Tamsyn Calder
Recipe Type: Warm Inspiration
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 12 poppers
What You'll Need
For the Poppers
- 12 large jalapenos
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup chives, chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice each jalapeno in half lengthwise, removing the seeds and membranes for a milder flavor.
In a bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, chives, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until well mixed.
Spoon the cream cheese mixture into each jalapeno half. Press the mixture in to ensure it is packed tightly.
Roll each stuffed jalapeno in breadcrumbs to coat evenly, then place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until the jalapenos are tender and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.
Extra Tips
- For an extra kick, consider adding cooked bacon bits to the cream cheese mixture or topping the poppers with a drizzle of hot sauce before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 15g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 6g