Description
Crispy, bite-sized jalapeno poppers stuffed with a creamy bacon and cheddar cheese filling, breaded with panko, and served with a zesty lime-cilantro crema. Perfect for game day or any party.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8–10 medium fresh jalapeno peppers
- 8 oz full-fat block cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
- 1 cup cooked and crumbled thick-cut bacon
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs, beaten with a splash of milk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 tsp paprika
- Oil for frying (avocado or vegetable oil)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
Instructions
- Prep the Jalapenos: Wash jalapenos, slice in half lengthwise, and remove seeds and membranes. Pat dry thoroughly with paper towels.
- Make the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, grated cheddar, crumbled bacon, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
- Stuff the Peppers: Spoon the cheese mixture into each jalapeno half, packing it in tightly.
- Set Up Breading Station: Prepare three shallow bowls: one with flour and salt, one with egg wash, and one with panko breadcrumbs mixed with paprika.
- Bread the Bites: Dip each stuffed jalapeno in flour, shake off excess, dip in egg wash, then press firmly into panko breadcrumbs to ensure full coverage.
- Cook: Heat oil in a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Fry bites for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Alternatively, bake at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Finish and Serve: Mix sour cream, lime juice, and chopped cilantro for the dipping sauce. Serve hot bites with the sauce on the side.
Notes
Wear gloves when handling jalapenos to avoid skin irritation. Ensure peppers are completely dry before stuffing to prevent oil splatter. For extra crunch, double dredge in egg and breadcrumbs. Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat in an air fryer or oven to maintain crispiness.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2-3 bites per person
- Calories: 175
- Sugar: 1
- Sodium: 320
- Fat: 14
- Saturated Fat: 6
- Carbohydrates: 8
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 6
Keywords: jalapeno poppers, game day food, appetizer, spicy bites, bacon cheese, lime crema, party snacks, fried jalapenos