These Jalapeno Poppers are a favorite Tex-Mex appetizer, packed with smoky bacon, melted cheese, and a spicy kick from the jalapeños. The crispy coating and creamy filling make them a perfect party snack or appetizer, with an irresistible combination of flavors that everyone will love.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 12 jalapeños (pickled or fresh)

• 3 strips thick-cut smoked bacon, cooked and crumbled

• 1 cup cheddar cheese, grated

• 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, grated

• 3 dashes hot sauce (optional)

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 2 large eggs

• ½ cup whole milk

• 1 cup plain, dry bread crumbs

• 1 teaspoon Adobo seasoning

• Vegetable oil for frying

• ½ cup sour cream (for dipping)

Directions

1. Prep the Peppers: Using gloves, cut a slit lengthwise down each jalapeño. For fresh jalapeños, make a perpendicular slit at the top. Remove the seeds and ribs to reduce heat.

2. Make the Filling: In a bowl, mix crumbled bacon, cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, and hot sauce (optional). Stuff each jalapeño with this mixture.

3. Prepare Dredging Station: Set up three bowls: flour, beaten eggs with milk, and bread crumbs mixed with Adobo seasoning.

4. Dredge the Poppers: Dip each stuffed jalapeño into water, then flour, egg/milk mixture, and finally coat with bread crumbs. Repeat for a second coating.

5. Fry or Bake: Heat oil in a skillet to 345°F or preheat the oven to 375°F. Fry the poppers for 4-5 minutes until golden brown or bake for 30-45 minutes until crisp.

6. Serve: Let the poppers cool slightly before serving with sour cream for dipping.

Nutrients (Per Serving)

• Calories: 422 kcal

• Carbohydrates: 33g

• Protein: 19g

• Fat: 18g

  • Saturated Fat: 10g

• Cholesterol: 118mg

• Sodium: 473mg

• Potassium: 265mg

• Fiber: 2g

• Sugar: 4g

• Vitamin A: 878 IU

• Vitamin C: 33mg

• Calcium: 369mg

• Iron: 3mg

The Perfect Jalapeno: Fresh or Pickled?

The key ingredient in jalapeno poppers, of course, is the jalapeno pepper. Fresh jalapenos offer a firmer texture and a more intense, raw heat, which many people enjoy for the bold flavor they bring. Alternatively, pickled jalapenos are a milder choice, often adding a tangy kick that complements the richness of the cheese and bacon filling. Either choice works well, but the level of heat can vary depending on whether you use fresh or pickled peppers.

For those who prefer a milder version of this appetizer, pickled jalapenos are an excellent option. They offer a more subtle heat, and the tang from the vinegar pairs wonderfully with the creamy cheese filling. Fresh jalapenos, however, are a great choice for those who enjoy a more intense, fiery kick, especially when the seeds and ribs are left intact. Removing the seeds and ribs from either fresh or pickled jalapenos can help reduce the heat if you prefer a less spicy flavor.

The Creamy Filling: Bacon, Cheddar, and Monterey Jack

What truly makes these jalapeno poppers a hit is the filling. The combination of bacon and two types of cheese—cheddar and Monterey Jack—creates a creamy and flavorful base that perfectly complements the heat of the jalapenos. The smoky flavor of thick-cut bacon is the star of the filling, providing a savory depth of flavor that balances the richness of the cheese.

Cheddar cheese brings a sharp, tangy flavor, while Monterey Jack adds a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Together, these two cheeses form the ideal filling for jalapeno poppers, melting perfectly inside the pepper while still holding their shape when fried or baked. Adding a few dashes of hot sauce to the filling can also kick up the heat level, depending on your preference, but it’s entirely optional.

Dredging and Coating: Double the Crispy Crunch

The double dredging technique used for these jalapeno poppers ensures an extra crispy exterior that’s golden brown and crunchy. The first step is dipping each stuffed jalapeno in flour, which provides a base layer for the egg and breadcrumb coating to adhere to. The egg and milk mixture helps to bind the breadcrumbs to the peppers, ensuring a solid, crispy crust when they’re fried or baked.

The second coating of breadcrumbs mixed with Adobo seasoning gives the poppers an additional layer of flavor and crunch. The Adobo seasoning adds a rich, savory note that complements the richness of the cheese and the smokiness of the bacon. The breadcrumbs give the poppers their signature crispy texture, ensuring each bite has the perfect crunch.

Frying vs. Baking: Choosing Your Cooking Method

Both frying and baking are great methods for cooking these jalapeno poppers, and each one offers a slightly different result. Frying the poppers in vegetable oil creates an ultra-crispy exterior that’s golden brown and delicious. The high temperature of the oil ensures that the coating becomes crispy and crunchy while the cheese filling inside melts to perfection. Frying also provides a quicker cooking time, typically around 4-5 minutes, and gives the poppers an extra indulgent crunch.

If you prefer a lighter version or want to avoid frying, baking is an excellent alternative. Preheating the oven to 375°F (190°C) and baking the poppers for 30-45 minutes allows the cheese to melt and the coating to become crispy, albeit with a slightly different texture compared to frying. Baking results in a slightly softer exterior, but the poppers still come out deliciously golden and crispy.

Serving and Dipping: Perfect Pairings

Once the poppers are cooked to crispy perfection, they’re ready to be served. Let them cool slightly on a wire rack to avoid burning your mouth with the melted cheese inside. While they’re still warm, serve them with a side of sour cream for dipping. The cool creaminess of the sour cream perfectly balances the spicy heat from the jalapenos and adds a smooth texture that contrasts beautifully with the crunchy exterior.

These jalapeno poppers are versatile enough to be served as an appetizer at a Tex-Mex-themed party, alongside burgers and fries, or as a standalone snack for any occasion. They also make an excellent accompaniment to other Mexican dishes, such as tacos, nachos, or quesadillas, and they’re always a crowd favorite at game-day gatherings or casual get-togethers.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can experiment with other dips as well. A tangy chipotle mayo, zesty salsa, or a creamy guacamole dip would also pair beautifully with these poppers, offering a different flavor profile that enhances the dish even further.

Conclusion

Jalapeno Poppers are a beloved Tex-Mex appetizer, and this recipe takes them to the next level with the addition of smoky bacon, two types of cheese, and a perfectly crispy coating. Whether you’re frying or baking them, these poppers offer a satisfying combination of creamy, cheesy filling and a crispy, flavorful exterior that’s sure to please your guests. With the smoky bacon, sharp cheddar, and Monterey Jack cheese inside, each bite is a perfect blend of heat and richness, making them a go-to appetizer for any occasion.

Serve these jalapeno poppers with sour cream, chipotle mayo, or salsa, and they’re guaranteed to be a hit at your next party or family dinner. With their irresistible combination of flavors and textures, these poppers are sure to become a new favorite in your appetizer rotation.