Description
Easy Jalapeño Popper Bites are the perfect appetizer for any gathering, combining the fiery heat of jalapeños with the creamy richness of cheese, all wrapped in a crispy, savory bite-sized package. These poppers are sure to impress your guests with their bold flavors and satisfy those craving a bit of spice. Whether you’re hosting a game night, a party, or just enjoying a casual snack, these bites are quick and easy to make, yet packed with flavor that will have everyone coming back for more. If you love a little heat and a lot of cheese, these bites are for you!
Ingredients
Scale
Gather the following ingredients to make your Easy Jalapeño Popper Bites:
- 10–12 jalapeños, sliced in half and deseeded
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 oz cooked bacon, crumbled (or turkey bacon, if preferred)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- Cooking spray or olive oil for greasing
Instructions
Prepare the Jalapeños:
- Slice and Deseed the Jalapeños: Cut the jalapeños in half lengthwise and carefully remove the seeds and membranes. For a milder version, wear gloves to handle the jalapeños, as the oils can irritate your skin.
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray or olive oil.
Make the Filling:
- Mix the Cheese Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, crumbled bacon, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well incorporated and smooth.
- Fill the Jalapeños: Spoon the cheese mixture into each jalapeño half, filling them generously.
Coat and Bake:
- Coat with Breadcrumbs: In a shallow bowl, spread out the breadcrumbs. Press each filled jalapeño half into the breadcrumbs to coat the cheese filling in a crispy layer.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the coated jalapeño poppers on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not touching each other for even cooking.
- Bake the Poppers: Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes or until the breadcrumbs are golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and melted.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve Warm: Once the poppers are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with extra crumbled bacon or chopped cilantro if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: breakfast
Nutrition
- Calories: 250-300 kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Protein: 15g