35 minutes
Transform your snack time with these oven-baked jalapeño poppers, a healthier twist on a popular pub favorite. Perfectly packed with cheesy goodness and a crisp panko topping, they're sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Panko bread crumbs, Toasted
cups
tablespoons
Jalapeño Chiles, Halved and Seeded
each
Cheddar Cheese, Shredded
cups
Cream Cheese, Softened
0 oz
Scallions, Chopped Fine
each
teaspoons
teaspoons
teaspoons
1. Prep and Toast Panko
Preheat Preparation: Warm your oven to 350 degrees F and set the rack in the middle position. Line a rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil. Panko Tossing: In a 12-inch nonstick skillet, mix the panko bread crumbs with 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Toast over medium-high heat, stirring frequently, until the panko is golden brown, about 5 to 10 minutes.
2. Prepare Jalapeños and Filling
Jalapeño Prep: Slice each jalapeño in half lengthwise, keeping the stem if attached. Gently scrape out the ribs and seeds with a spoon. Filling Mix: In a mixing bowl, blend the shredded cheddar cheese, softened cream cheese, finely chopped scallions, lime juice, chili powder, and salt.
3. Assemble and Bake
Fill and Coat: Distribute the cheese mixture evenly among the jalapeño halves. Arrange them on the prepared baking sheet. Sprinkle the toasted panko over the stuffed jalapeños and lightly mist with vegetable oil spray. Baking Time: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake the jalapeño poppers until they are bubbling and heated through, approximately 15 to 20 minutes.
Choose jalapeños that are firm, vibrant, and free of blemishes. Size matters here – try to pick uniformly sized peppers to ensure they cook evenly. Larger jalapeños can be easier to stuff and handle, but smaller ones often offer a more potent heat.
For that perfect crispy crust, toast your panko breadcrumbs in a skillet with a bit of butter or oil until they are golden brown before using them. This will add an extra layer of crunch and flavor to your poppers.
For a truly flavorful filling, consider blending different cheeses. A mix of cream cheese for creaminess, sharp cheddar for a punch, and a softer cheese like goat or feta can add complexity. Room temperature cheese blends more easily and creates a smoother filling.
Don't shy away from seasoning. A pinch of garlic powder, smoked paprika, or cumin can add depth to your cheese mixture. Fresh herbs like cilantro or chives can also brighten up the flavor. Taste and adjust the seasoning before stuffing the jalapeños.
Always wear gloves when working with jalapeños to prevent capsaicin burns, and avoid touching your face or eyes. When you're hollowing out the peppers, use a small paring knife or a teaspoon to carefully remove the seeds and membranes, which is where most of the heat resides. If you want extra spicy poppers, retain some of the membranes.
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