Delicious Jalapeño Poppers

Delicious Jalapeño Poppers

Ingredients

8 fresh, large jalapeño peppers

8 ounces softened cream cheese

1 cup grated cheddar cheese

1/2 cup crispy cooked bacon, chopped or crumbled

1 teaspoon garlic powder seasoning

1 teaspoon onion powder seasoning

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika spice

1/4 teaspoon fine salt

1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

1 cup panko-style breadcrumbs

1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

Instructions

Heat the oven to 400°F (200°C) so it is ready for baking.

Prepare the peppers:

Slice each jalapeño in half from top to bottom.

If you want them milder, remove the seeds and inner membranes.

Make the filling:

In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, cheddar cheese, bacon pieces, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.

Stir everything together until the mixture becomes smooth and evenly blended.

Fill the peppers:

Spoon the cheese mixture into each jalapeño half, packing the filling in generously.

Prepare the topping:

In another bowl, toss the panko breadcrumbs with the olive oil until the crumbs are lightly coated.

Add the crunch:

Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the filled jalapeños.

Arrange for baking:

Place the stuffed peppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake:

Cook in the oven for about 20–25 minutes, until the topping turns golden and the cheese inside is hot and bubbling.

Cool slightly and serve:

Let the jalapeño poppers rest for a few minutes before serving so the filling can set.