September 28, 2021 49 Comments

Baked Jalapeno Poppers (vegetarian)

Name: Baked Jalapeno Poppers
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 8 jalapenos (sliced in half & deseeded); 3/4 cup Japanese panko crumbs; 1/4 tsp paprika; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/4 tsp salt; 4 ounces cream cheese; 3/4 cup Mexican blend cheddar cheese; 3 tbsp milk; 1/3 tsp cayenne pepper; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; pinch of salt

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Skip the processed frozen poppers and opt for these homemade Baked Jalapeno Poppers made with jalapeno, cream cheese, and panko crumbs.

Growing up, my biggest weakness was TGIF’s frozen Jalapeno Poppers – they are seriously so good, but also super processed and not practical. I decided to come up with my own version years ago and somehow this recipe still hits the spot. This is a super easy Baked Jalapeno Poppers recipe.
Baked Jalapeno Poppers (vegetarian, gluten-free option)

What are Baked Jalapeno Poppers?

Baked Jalapeno Poppers are essentially jalapenos sliced and stuffed with a cream cheese filling. The jalapeno is then pressed onto panko crumbs and baked in the oven. They’re creamy, indulgent, and so easy to make.

Can I make this recipe vegan, gluten-free?

YES!

For a vegan option – use vegan cream cheese and Mexican cheese.

For a gluten-free option – use gluten-free panko crumbs.
Baked Jalapeno Poppers (vegetarian, gluten-free option)

How do I cut the Jalapenos?

First, slice the head of the jalapeno off.

Second, slice each jalapeno in half – lengthwise.

Then, deseed each half of the jalapeno.

Are Baked Jalapeno Poppers healthy?

Well, I wouldn’t exactly call this recipe healthy. With that said, it is a healthier option compared to the real thing There is still a good amount of cheese and cream cheese in this recipe so this recipe is definitely not healthy.

Tips on making Baked Jalapeno Poppers:

Slice the jalapenos in half and deseed completely.
Prepare the panko crumb mixture.
Prepare the cream cheese filling.
Stuff each half of the jalapeno with the cream cheese filling.
Then dip each jalapeno into the panko crumb mixture.
Bake at 400 degrees for 20-25 minutes. I baked these in the toaster oven rather than a proper oven.

Baked Jalapeno Poppers are:

Baked, not fried
Scrumptious
Creamy
Cheesy
Delicious
Vegetarian

How to make Baked Jalapeno Poppers recipe step by step?

Prep

1. Start by pre-heating the oven to 400 degrees. In a bowl, add panko crumbs, 1/2 to 1 tsp of Cayenne Pepper, black pepper, garlic powder, and salt. Mix. Set aside.
2. In another bowl, add cream cheese, milk, Mexican cheese, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt to a bowl.
3. Mix all the ingredients well.
4. Slice the top of the jalapeno. Then slice in half.
5. Deseed the jalapenos completely.
Baked Jalapeno Poppers (vegetarian, gluten-free option)

Assemble

1. Take a spoonful of the cream cheese mixture.
2. Spread the cream cheese inside the jalapeno half.
3. Dip the cream cheese side of the jalapeno in panko crumbs.
4. Place on a baking sheet tray.

Bake

1. Place the baking tray in the oven.
2. Bake in the oven at 400 degrees for 20-25 minutes until golden brown. Serve with ranch dressing and ketchup.

Pin & Enjoy!

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