Jalapeno Poppers with Panko Crust
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
I absolutely love making Jalapeno Poppers with Panko Crust for gatherings or cozy nights at home. The crispy texture from the panko combined with the spicy kick of jalapenos creates a delightful contrast that everyone enjoys. I've perfected this recipe over time by experimenting with different cheeses and spices, ensuring a creamy filling packed with flavor. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer or a late-night snack, they're always a hit. Plus, the preparation is quick and fun, making it easy to whip up a batch whenever a craving strikes!
When I first made Jalapeno Poppers with Panko Crust, I was surprised by how quickly they disappeared at our gathering. I experimented with the filling, opting for a blend of cream cheese and cheddar, which resulted in a rich and flavorful bite that balanced perfectly with the spice of the jalapenos.
One key tip I learned is to soak the jalapenos in water for a few minutes before stuffing them. This helps remove some of the heat, making them more enjoyable for those who are not fans of spicy foods. It’s all about finding that perfect balance!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Crispy panko crust that adds a satisfying crunch
- Balanced spiciness that doesn't overwhelm the palate
- Simple ingredients with an impressive outcome
Mastering the Perfect Stuffing
When making the filling for your jalapeno poppers, the balance of cheese is crucial for achieving the right texture. I recommend using full-fat cream cheese for its creaminess and mouthfeel. The sharpness of the cheddar provides an excellent contrast, while the green onions lend a mild onion flavor that enhances the overall taste without overpowering the spice of the jalapenos.
If you're looking for variations, consider adding some crumbled bacon or chorizo to the cheese mixture for a smoky flavor. For those who prefer a kick, a pinch of cayenne or a dash of hot sauce can elevate the heat level, making every bite flavorful and exciting.
Getting the Panko Just Right
The key to a stellar panko crust is ensuring that the breadcrumbs are evenly distributed and properly adhered to the filling. When sprinkling the panko, gently press down to form a bond with the cream cheese mixture beneath. This step not only enhances the crunch but also prevents the breadcrumbs from falling off during baking.
For an extra flavor boost, you can toast the panko in a skillet with a little olive oil before coating the jalapenos. This pre-toasting process introduces a nutty aroma and golden color, which can make your poppers even more visually appealing.
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients for a mouthwatering experience!
Ingredients
- 12 fresh jalapenos
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil spray for baking
Once you've gathered your ingredients, you're ready to start making these delicious poppers!
Instructions
Follow these steps to create the perfect Jalapeno Poppers with Panko Crust!
Prepare the Jalapenos
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes for less heat. Soak them in water for about 10 minutes if you prefer milder poppers.
Make the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, shredded cheddar, chopped green onions, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended and creamy.
Stuff the Jalapenos
Spoon the cream cheese mixture into each jalapeno half, filling them generously.
Coat with Panko
Place the stuffed jalapenos on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Sprinkle panko breadcrumbs over the top of each jalapeno, lightly pressing them down to adhere. Spray the tops with oil to enhance browning.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes or until the panko is golden brown and crispy. Let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
Enjoy your delicious Jalapeno Poppers while they're still warm!
Pro Tips
- Experiment with different cheeses or add cooked bacon bits to the filling for extra flavor. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce for a fun twist!
Storage and Make-Ahead Options
If you want to prepare jalapeno poppers in advance, you can assemble them up to a day ahead. Store the prepared poppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake. Just be sure to add additional cooking time as they will be cold when placed in the oven.
For longer storage, consider freezing the stuffed jalapenos before baking. After assembling, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag. They can be baked from frozen; just extend the baking time by about 5-10 minutes while keeping an eye on the panko's color.
Serving Suggestions
Jalapeno poppers are versatile in presentation. For a fun touch, serve them with a side of creamy ranch or chipotle sauce for dipping, as this complements the spicy jalapenos beautifully. You can also add an extra layer of flavor by drizzling a simple honey glaze over the finished poppers for a sweet and spicy combination.
Consider serving these delicious bites at your next game night or potluck. They make excellent finger food and can be easily scaled to feed a crowd. Just remember to keep some napkins handy; things can get a little messy but that's part of the fun!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the jalapenos and filling a day ahead. Just store them separately in the fridge and assemble right before baking.
→ How can I make them spicier?
Leave some of the jalapeno seeds in when you stuff them or add a dash of hot sauce to the cream cheese mixture.
→ Can I use other peppers?
Absolutely! You can use poblano or serrano peppers for a different flavor profile or heat level.
→ What can I serve with jalapeno poppers?
They pair well with ranch dressing, guacamole, or a spicy salsa for dipping.
Jalapeno Poppers with Panko Crust
I absolutely love making Jalapeno Poppers with Panko Crust for gatherings or cozy nights at home. The crispy texture from the panko combined with the spicy kick of jalapenos creates a delightful contrast that everyone enjoys. I've perfected this recipe over time by experimenting with different cheeses and spices, ensuring a creamy filling packed with flavor. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer or a late-night snack, they're always a hit. Plus, the preparation is quick and fun, making it easy to whip up a batch whenever a craving strikes!
Created by: Jocelyn Parker
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 12 fresh jalapenos
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil spray for baking
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes for less heat. Soak them in water for about 10 minutes if you prefer milder poppers.
In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, shredded cheddar, chopped green onions, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended and creamy.
Spoon the cream cheese mixture into each jalapeno half, filling them generously.
Place the stuffed jalapenos on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Sprinkle panko breadcrumbs over the top of each jalapeno, lightly pressing them down to adhere. Spray the tops with oil to enhance browning.
Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes or until the panko is golden brown and crispy. Let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
Extra Tips
- Experiment with different cheeses or add cooked bacon bits to the filling for extra flavor. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce for a fun twist!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Total Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 350mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 19g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 8g