Easy Stuffed Jalapeños with Cream Cheese Recipe

Welcome to the world of flavor-packed snacks with our easy Stuffed Jalapeños with Cream Cheese recipe. This dish perfectly bridges the gap between bold, spicy jalapeños and creamy, comforting cream cheese, creating a tantalizing treat that is sure to impress your guests and family alike. Originating from Mexican cuisine, stuffed jalapeños have gained immense popularity in households and parties across the globe, known for their deliciously spicy kick and rich flavor profile.

Whether you’re hosting a vibrant gathering, preparing for game day, or simply craving a homemade delight, this homemade Stuffed Jalapeños with Cream Cheese from scratch will become your go-to recipe. With every bite, you’ll experience a delightful crunch followed by a creamy filling that melts in your mouth. Ready to spice things up? Let’s dive into making these mouthwatering treats!

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Serving Size: 12 Jalapeños

Ingredients

For the Filling:

• 12 large jalapeños
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or vegan cheese for a dairy-free option)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Optional: 1/4 cup cooked bacon bits for non-vegetarian version

For Topping (Optional):

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free for a gluten-free option)
• 2 tablespoons melted butter or olive oil

Possible Ingredient Swaps:

• Use dairy-free cream cheese and vegan cheese for a vegan Stuffed jalapeños with cream cheese.
• Swap jalapeños for mini sweet peppers for a milder version.
• For added flavor, mix in diced green onions or jalapeño slices into the filling.

Equipment List

• Oven
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Mixing bowl
• Spoon or spatula
• Baking tray
• Parchment paper (optional)
• Measuring cups and spoons

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your jalapeños will be baked to perfection with a nice golden finish.
2. Prepare the Jalapeños: Carefully cut each jalapeño in half lengthwise. Using a small spoon, gently scoop out the seeds and membranes. This step can be adjusted according to your spice tolerance—leave a few seeds if you prefer extra heat. The vibrant green skin should be intact to hold the stuffing.
3. Make the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Use a spatula to mix thoroughly until the ingredients are well combined and creamy. If using bacon bits, fold them in at this stage for extra flavor.
4. Stuff the Jalapeños: Take a spoonful of the cheese filling and generously stuff each jalapeño half, ensuring they are filled to the top. Press the filling gently to secure it in place. This is the moment you’ll see how deliciously creamy and rich your filling is!
5. Add Topping (Optional): If you’re using breadcrumbs for extra crunch, mix them with melted butter or olive oil in a small bowl. Sprinkle this mixture over the stuffed jalapeños to create a beautiful golden crust as they bake.
6. Bake the Jalapeños: Place the stuffed jalapeños on a baking tray lined with parchment paper to avoid sticking. Bake them in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the tops are golden and bubbly. As they bake, your kitchen will fill with irresistible aromas that will have everyone eagerly awaiting the dish.
7. Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the jalapeños from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes. Serve warm, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro or a drizzle of sour cream if desired. Your guests will rave about the gorgeous, cheesy filling bursting with flavor!

Special Notes

• Storage: Leftover stuffed jalapeños can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, place them on a baking tray and warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the jalapeños up to the stuffing stage, then cover and refrigerate. When ready to bake, just pop them in the oven and follow the baking instructions.
• Troubleshooting: If your filling is too runny, add a tablespoon of breadcrumbs or a little more cream cheese. For a thicker consistency, refrigerate the filling before stuffing.

Variations and Customizations

Your Stuffed Jalapeños with Cream Cheese can be tailored to fit various dietary preferences:

• Gluten-Free: Ensure to use gluten-free breadcrumbs or skip the topping altogether.
• Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños to the filling or drizzle with a spicy sauce before baking.
• Vegetarian Delight: Mix in diced sun-dried tomatoes or spinach to the filling for added nutrition.

Nutritional Information (Approximate per Serving)

• Calories: 180
• Protein: 8g
• Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Fiber: 1g

Engaging Visual Details

As you prepare this dish, imagine slicing into each jalapeño, revealing the luscious, creamy filling tucked within. The vibrant green of the jalapeños contrasts beautifully with the rich yellow of the cheese filling. The moment they come out of the oven, they will be bubbling and slightly golden on top, creating an inviting sight that beckons you to take a bite. Accompanying images or videos showing each step could greatly enhance this recipe, providing visual cues for prepping and serving.

Conclusion

With this easy Stuffed Jalapeños with Cream Cheese recipe, you are well on your way to mastering a fantastic appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion. Its irresistible combination of creamy, spicy, and cheesy flavors is bound to leave a lasting impression on anyone who tries it. Don’t hesitate—give this recipe a try and savor every delicious bite!

Feel inspired? Leave a comment below if you tried this recipe! Have your own twist on the dish? Share your version on Instagram and tag us with MyDeliciousDish!