Chili Cheese Jalapeno Poppers

Introduction

Chili Cheese Jalapeno Poppers are the ultimate spicy, cheesy appetizer that combines the heat of fresh jalapenos with the rich, savory flavors of chili and melted cheese. These bite-sized treats are stuffed with a zesty chili filling and topped with gooey cheese, making them the perfect game-day snack or party appetizer.

I first made these when I wanted something bold and flavorful to share with friends during a game night, and they were a huge hit. The combination of the spicy jalapenos and the savory chili and cheese is absolutely irresistible. Whether you bake or fry them, the result is always a crispy, cheesy, and perfectly spiced treat that keeps everyone coming back for more.

What’s great about these Chili Cheese Jalapeno Poppers is that they’re easy to customize. You can adjust the chili’s spice level or add in extra ingredients like bacon for an even richer flavor. Perfect for those who love bold flavors, these poppers are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

Perfect for:

• Game day parties
• BBQs and cookouts
• Appetizers for gatherings
• Spice lovers
• Family get-togethers

Why You’ll Love This Chili Cheese Jalapeno Poppers

Here’s why Chili Cheese Jalapeno Poppers will become your new favorite snack:

• Bold Flavors: The combination of spicy jalapenos, savory chili, and melted cheese delivers a flavor explosion in every bite.
• Perfect for Parties: These poppers are easy to make in batches and are ideal for sharing at parties, BBQs, and gatherings.
• Crunchy and Creamy: Whether baked or fried, the poppers have a crispy exterior and a creamy, cheesy interior that’s irresistible.
• Customizable: You can adjust the spice level by varying the amount of jalapenos or adding other ingredients to the filling, like bacon or ground beef.
• Quick and Easy: These poppers come together in no time, making them a perfect last-minute appetizer for any occasion.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 40-50 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25-35 minutes
• Servings: 12-16 poppers
• Calories per serving: Approximately 150-200 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 8g, Carbs: 10g, Fat: 12g

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make Chili Cheese Jalapeno Poppers:

• 12 fresh jalapenos
• 1 cup cooked chili (homemade or canned)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup cream cheese (softened)
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (for topping)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for drizzling or frying)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: Crumbled bacon for added flavor

Ingredient Highlights

• Jalapenos: The fresh jalapenos bring a nice heat and crunch to these poppers. If you prefer less heat, remove the seeds and membranes before stuffing.
• Chili: You can use homemade chili or canned chili for a quick and convenient option. The chili adds a hearty, savory element to balance the spice of the jalapenos.
• Cheese: Cheddar cheese provides a sharp, creamy flavor that complements the heat from the jalapenos and the richness of the chili filling.
• Cream Cheese & Sour Cream: These ingredients create a smooth, creamy texture for the filling that’s both flavorful and decadent.
• Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs give the poppers a crisp, crunchy topping that contrasts nicely with the creamy filling.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Chili Cheese Jalapeno Poppers:

Prepare the Jalapenos:

1. Prep the Jalapenos: Slice each jalapeno in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes. If you prefer less heat, you can scrape out more of the membrane. Wear gloves to avoid irritation when handling the jalapenos.
2. Preheat the Oven or Heat Oil: If baking, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). If frying, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Make the Filling:

3. Mix the Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the chili, cream cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Stuff the Jalapenos: Spoon the chili cheese mixture into each jalapeno half, packing it in tightly. Make sure each popper is generously filled with the mixture.

Coat and Cook:

5. Top with Panko: Sprinkle the panko breadcrumbs over the stuffed jalapenos, pressing gently to help them stick. Drizzle with olive oil if baking, or prepare to fry them.
6. Bake the Poppers (Option 1): Arrange the stuffed jalapenos on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the breadcrumbs are golden and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Fry the Poppers (Option 2): If frying, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the stuffed jalapenos for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and crispy. Remove from the oil and drain on paper towels.

Serve:

8. Serve: Arrange the Chili Cheese Jalapeno Poppers on a serving platter. Serve them hot, and enjoy the spicy, cheesy goodness!

How to Serve Chili Cheese Jalapeno Poppers

Chili Cheese Jalapeno Poppers are a versatile snack that can be served in many ways:

• As an Appetizer: Serve them at your next party or gathering for a crowd-pleasing start to any meal.
• Game Day Snack: These poppers are perfect for game day, paired with cold drinks and other finger foods.
• With Dipping Sauces: Serve with ranch dressing, sour cream, or a spicy salsa for dipping.
• On a Charcuterie Board: Add them to a spread of other snacks like chips, dip, and finger foods for a delicious party platter.

Additional Tips for Chili Cheese Jalapeno Poppers

Here are some tips to ensure your Chili Cheese Jalapeno Poppers turn out perfectly:

• Wear Gloves When Handling Jalapenos: Jalapenos can irritate the skin, so it’s best to wear gloves when handling and deseeding them.
• Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder flavor, deseed the jalapenos completely, or use milder peppers like Anaheim peppers.
• Use Homemade Chili: If you have the time, homemade chili adds a richer, heartier flavor to the filling. You can also use leftover chili for a quick option.
• Crispy Topping: For an extra crispy topping, toast the panko breadcrumbs in a pan with a little butter before sprinkling on the poppers.
• Baking vs. Frying: Baking is a healthier option, but frying gives the poppers a crispy exterior and is perfect for those who love the crunch.

Recipe Variations for Chili Cheese Jalapeno Poppers

Here are 10 variations you can try for Chili Cheese Jalapeno Poppers:

• Bacon-Wrapped Chili Cheese Jalapeno Poppers: Wrap each stuffed jalapeno in bacon before baking or frying for added flavor and a smoky finish.
• Ground Beef Filling: Add ground beef to the chili cheese mixture for a heartier filling.
• Creamy Jalapeno Popper Dip: If you don’t want to stuff the jalapenos, turn the filling into a dip by baking the mixture in a casserole dish and serving with chips or crackers.
• Cheddar and Monterey Jack Cheese: Combine different cheeses for a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth filling.
• Spicy Sausage: Add crumbled spicy sausage to the chili mixture for a bold, savory twist.
• BBQ Chili Cheese Jalapeno Poppers: Use BBQ chili in the filling for a smoky, tangy flavor.
• Vegetarian Chili: Use vegetarian chili for a meatless option that’s just as flavorful.
• Sriracha Sauce: Add a bit of sriracha to the filling for an extra kick of heat.
• Cheese-Stuffed Jalapeno Poppers: Skip the chili and stuff the jalapenos with cheese and cream cheese for a simpler, cheesy popper.
• Buffalo Chicken Chili Cheese Poppers: Add shredded buffalo chicken to the chili mixture for a spicy, tangy popper.

Freezing and Storage for Chili Cheese Jalapeno Poppers

• Freezing: To freeze these poppers, stuff and coat the jalapenos as directed, then place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. Bake or fry directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
• Storage: Store leftover Chili Cheese Jalapeno Poppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to retain the crispiness.

Special Equipment for Chili Cheese Jalapeno Poppers

Here are some tools that will make preparing Chili Cheese Jalapeno Poppers easier:

• Baking Sheet: Use a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to bake the poppers.
• Skillet: A large skillet for frying the poppers if you prefer a crispy, golden exterior.
• Gloves: Wear gloves to avoid irritation when handling spicy jalapenos.
• Mixing Bowls: For mixing the chili cheese filling.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensure accurate measurements for the spices and filling.

Frequently Asked Questions for Chili Cheese Jalapeno Poppers

1. Can I make these poppers ahead of time?
   Yes, you can stuff and coat the jalapenos ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking or frying.
2. Can I use frozen jalapenos?
   While fresh jalapenos are best for this recipe, you can use frozen jalapenos. Just be aware that they may be softer after thawing.
3. Can I bake the poppers instead of frying them?
   Yes, baking is a great option for a healthier version, and it will still give you a crispy exterior if you drizzle the poppers with olive oil.
4. Can I make these poppers gluten-free?
   Yes, simply substitute the panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.
5. How do I store leftover poppers?
   Store leftover poppers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to restore their crispiness.

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Conclusion

Chili Cheese Jalapeno Poppers are the perfect combination of spicy, cheesy, and savory flavors that everyone will love. Whether you bake or fry them, these poppers are sure to be a hit at your next gathering. With their bold flavors and easy-to-make filling, they’re ideal for parties, game days, or any occasion where you want a delicious, crowd-pleasing snack. Enjoy them hot and fresh, and prepare for everyone to ask for the recipe!

This recipe is simple and quick, making it perfect for everything from casual get-togethers to festive occasions. Whether you’re sharing them with friends or serving them at a big event, these poppers are sure to satisfy your guests and leave them craving more.

I’d love to see how your Chili Cheese Jalapeno Poppers turn out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Happy cooking!