Spicy Cheesy Jalapeno Poppers (Printable version)
Crispy jalapenos filled with creamy cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses and spices for a tasty bite.
# What You'll Need:
→ Vegetables
01 - 8 large fresh jalapeno peppers
→ Cheese Filling
02 - 4 oz cream cheese, softened
03 - ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
04 - ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
05 - 1 green onion, finely chopped
06 - ½ teaspoon garlic powder
07 - ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
08 - ¼ teaspoon salt
09 - ⅛ teaspoon ground black pepper
→ Coating
10 - 2 large eggs
11 - 2 tablespoons milk
12 - ½ cup all-purpose flour
13 - 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
→ For Frying
14 - Vegetable oil, for deep frying
# Directions:
01 - Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F. Prepare a plate lined with paper towels for draining.
02 - Slice each jalapeno lengthwise and remove seeds and membranes using gloves for safety.
03 - Combine cream cheese, cheddar, Monterey Jack, green onion, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
04 - Fill each jalapeno half with the cheese mixture, pressing firmly and leveling the surface.
05 - Arrange flour in one bowl, whisk eggs and milk in another, and place panko breadcrumbs in a third bowl.
06 - Dredge stuffed jalapenos in flour, dip into egg mixture, then coat with panko breadcrumbs. For extra crispiness, repeat dipping in egg and breadcrumbs.
07 - Fry poppers in batches for 2 to 3 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
08 - Allow poppers to cool slightly before serving to enhance flavor and safety.
# Expert advice:
01 -
- They balance creamy, cheesy comfort with a bold, spicy kick that feels like a secret indulgence.
- The crispy coating adds that satisfying crunch that keeps everyone coming back for more.
02 -
- Removing all seeds and membranes tames the heat while keeping that signature jalapeno flavor intact.
- Double coating with egg and panko is what transforms these from good to irresistibly crunchy.
03 -
- Tightly packing the cheese filling stops it from oozing out during frying or baking.
- Maintaining oil temperature is crucial; too cool and the poppers soak oil, too hot and they burn without cooking through.