How to Prepare Cheesy Baked Stuffed Jalapeños for Spicy Appetizers
Are you craving something spicy, cheesy, and utterly delicious? Look no further than cheesy baked stuffed jalapeños! These little bites of heaven will add a kick to any gathering, making them the perfect appetizer for those who love a bit of spice in their life. Here’s a simple guide on how to prepare them, ensuring your next snack or party starter is a hit.
Ingredients:
- 12 jalapeño peppers
- 1 package (8 oz.) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- Cooking spray
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your oven is hot and ready for baking once your jalapeños are stuffed and prepped.
Step 2: Prepare the Jalapeños
First, make sure to wash your jalapeños thoroughly. Then, cut them in half lengthwise and use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and membranes. Be careful during this step—jalapeño seeds can be quite hot, and it’s best to avoid touching your face or eyes. Wearing gloves can help protect your hands.
Step 3: Make the Filling
In a bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix these ingredients well until you have a smooth and tasty filling. This cheesy mixture is going to be the heart of your stuffed jalapeños, so feel free to adjust the seasonings to your liking.
Step 4: Stuff the Jalapeños
Take each jalapeño half and fill it with the cheesy mixture using a spoon. You’ll want to be generous with the filling, making sure each jalapeño half is nicely packed. This is what gives your appetizers their deliciously creamy center.
Step 5: Dip and Bread
Pour the milk into one bowl and the breadcrumbs into another. Dip each stuffed jalapeño first in milk and then roll it in breadcrumbs. This will give your stuffed jalapeños a crispy coating once baked. Make sure each jalapeño half is well-coated with breadcrumbs for the best texture.
Step 6: Bake
Place your breaded jalapeño halves on a baking sheet coated with cooking spray. This helps to prevent sticking and ensures your jalapeños come out of the oven beautifully golden. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until the jalapeños are tender and the breading is crispy and golden.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once done, take them out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. They’re going to be hot, and letting them cool down a bit makes them easier to handle and eat. Serve them warm as a spicy and cheesy appetizer that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Tips for Success:
- Removing Seeds: Removing the seeds and membranes from the jalapeños reduces their heat level, making the appetizers enjoyable for everyone. If you prefer an extra spicy kick, leave a few seeds in.
- Variations: Feel free to mix up the cheeses or add bits of bacon, crabmeat, or your favorite herbs into the filling for different flavors.
- Serving: These jalapeños are best served warm, but they’re also tasty at room temperature, making them a flexible appetizer option.
Conclusion:
Cheesy baked stuffed jalapeños are a simple yet spectacular appetizer that combines the heat of jalapeños with the creaminess of cheese, all wrapped in a crispy breadcrumb coating. Not only are they delicious, but they’re also easy to prepare, making them perfect for parties, game days, or just a fun snack. Follow this simple guide to create a spicy, cheesy, and irresistible appetizer that everyone will love. Get ready to enjoy the burst of flavors and textures in each bite, and watch these little delights disappear in no time!
