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Crispy Jalapeño Poppers with Cheesy Bacon Filling

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These crispy jalapeño poppers feature a creamy, cheesy bacon filling with a perfectly golden and crunchy coating, making them an irresistible snack perfect for parties and game days.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 fresh jalapeño peppers, medium-sized
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 6 slices bacon, cooked crisp and chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • Vegetable oil, about 2 cups for shallow frying

Instructions

  1. Prepare the jalapeños by slicing each in half lengthwise and removing seeds and membranes carefully to reduce heat. Set aside on a tray.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, cooked and chopped bacon, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until creamy and uniform.
  3. Stuff each jalapeño half with the cheesy bacon filling using a spoon or small scoop. Avoid overfilling to prevent leaking during frying.
  4. Set up a dredging station with flour in one shallow bowl, beaten eggs in another, and panko breadcrumbs in a third.
  5. Dredge each stuffed jalapeño in flour, shaking off excess, then dip into beaten eggs, and coat thoroughly with breadcrumbs. For extra crunch, double dip by repeating the egg and breadcrumb step.
  6. Heat vegetable oil in a heavy skillet to about 1 inch deep over medium heat to approximately 350°F (175°C). Test oil by dropping a breadcrumb; it should sizzle immediately.
  7. Fry the poppers in batches, skin side down first, for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Use tongs or a slotted spoon to turn gently and adjust heat as needed.
  8. Remove poppers and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil. Serve warm with ranch dressing or your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

Maintain oil temperature around 350°F (175°C) to avoid burning or sogginess. Dry jalapeños well after seeding to prevent coating from slipping off. Double coating with egg and breadcrumbs adds extra crunch. For a lighter option, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes, flipping halfway. Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 2 days and reheat best in a toaster oven or air fryer.

Nutrition

Keywords: jalapeño poppers, crispy jalapeño poppers, cheesy bacon filling, party snacks, appetizer, game day food, fried jalapeños

Find it online: https://norasfoods.com/crispy-jalape-n-o-poppers-with-cheesy-bacon-filling-easy-recipe-for-party-snacks/