Get ready to elevate your snacking game with these irresistible Pimiento Cheese Jalapeno Poppers! Perfectly creamy, delightfully cheesy, and just the right amount of spicy, these poppers are the ultimate crowd-pleaser for any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a game day party or simply craving a delicious treat, these poppers are sure to steal the show. With just 35 minutes of your time, you can whip up a batch of these mouthwatering bites that are bursting with flavor. Trust us, once you take a bite, you’ll be hooked!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Southern
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 8 jalapeno peppers
- 1 cup pimiento cheese spread
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the jalapeno poppers cook evenly and get a nice golden color.
- Prepare the jalapeno peppers by cutting them in half lengthwise. Use a small spoon or a knife to carefully remove the seeds and membranes from each half. This will help reduce the heat level, but you can leave some seeds if you prefer spicier poppers.
- In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of pimiento cheese spread with 1/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Mix well until the cheeses are fully incorporated. This cheesy mixture will be the filling for the jalapenos.
- Using a spoon, generously fill each jalapeno half with the cheese mixture. Make sure to pack it in well to prevent it from spilling out during baking.
- In a separate bowl, combine 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Mix until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated with the oil. This will help them achieve a crispy texture when baked.
- Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the filled jalapeno halves, covering them evenly. This will create a crunchy topping that adds texture to the poppers.
- Place the stuffed jalapenos on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased to prevent sticking. Make sure to space them out evenly.
- Season the jalapeno poppers with salt and pepper to taste. This will enhance the flavors of the cheese and jalapenos.
- Bake the jalapeno poppers in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until the breadcrumbs are golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
- Once done, remove the poppers from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. This will make them easier to handle and eat.
- Serve the pimiento cheese jalapeno poppers warm as an appetizer or snack. Enjoy the creamy, cheesy filling with a kick of spice!
Tips
- Choose Your Jalapenos Wisely: For a milder flavor, opt for larger jalapenos, as they tend to have fewer seeds. If you love heat, go for smaller, spicier peppers!
- Customize Your Cheese: Feel free to mix in your favorite cheeses with the pimiento cheese spread. Cream cheese or pepper jack can add a unique twist to your filling.
- Breadcrumb Alternatives: If you want to make these poppers gluten-free, substitute regular breadcrumbs with crushed gluten-free crackers or panko.
- Experiment with Toppings: Try adding spices like paprika or cayenne to the breadcrumb mixture for an extra kick, or top with chopped green onions for a fresh finish.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the jalapeno poppers ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to a day before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they are cold from the fridge.
- Serve with Dipping Sauces: Pair your poppers with ranch dressing, sour cream, or a zesty salsa for a delicious dipping experience!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 98kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 14mg
