Description
Jalapeno Bites are a spicy and savory appetizer featuring fresh jalapenos stuffed with a creamy cheese mixture, coated in crunchy breadcrumbs, and cooked to golden perfection either by baking or frying. Perfect as a flavorful snack or party appetizer that pairs well with ranch or blue cheese dip.
Ingredients
Scale
Jalapenos
- 12 fresh jalapenos, halved and seeded
Cheese Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra spice)
Coating
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (Panko for extra crunch)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 1 egg, beaten
- Olive oil or cooking spray (for baking) or cooking oil (for frying)
Instructions
- Prepare Jalapenos: Wash and halve the jalapenos lengthwise, carefully removing the seeds and membranes using gloves to avoid skin irritation.
- Make Cheese Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper if using. Mix well until fully blended.
- Stuff Jalapenos: Fill each jalapeno half with the cheese mixture, pressing gently to evenly pack the filling inside.
- Prepare Coating: In one bowl, mix breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese. In another bowl, beat the egg until smooth.
- Coat Jalapenos: Dip each stuffed jalapeno half first into the beaten egg, then coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture to create a crispy outer layer.
- Cook Jalapenos: For baking, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the coated jalapenos on a baking sheet lined with parchment or sprayed with cooking spray, and bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown and crispy. For frying, heat oil in a pan over medium heat and fry the jalapenos for 2-3 minutes per side, turning until evenly crispy and golden.
- Serve: Remove jalapeno bites from oven or pan, let them cool slightly, then serve warm with ranch or blue cheese dip for a delicious, spicy snack.
Notes
- Wear gloves when handling jalapenos to prevent skin irritation from the capsaicin.
- Panko breadcrumbs provide extra crunch but regular breadcrumbs can be used if unavailable.
- Adjust cayenne pepper and smoked paprika amounts based on your preferred spice level.
- Baking is a healthier option, while frying results in crispier jalapeno bites.
- Serve immediately for best texture and flavor; leftovers can be reheated in the oven.
