Cheesy Jalapeño Poppers with a Kick!
Let’s make some.
Jalapeño poppers are a popular appetizer or snack made from jalapeño peppers that are stuffed with cheese or other fillings, breaded, and deep-fried until crispy. The origin of these tasty treats is believed to have a few different theories.
One theory suggests that jalapeño poppers originated in Texas, United States, in the early 1980s. A cook named Larry Gatlin is often credited with creating the dish at a Mexican restaurant called Papa's Bar and Grill in the city of Midland. Gatlin came up with the idea of stuffing jalapeños with cheese and covering them in breading to deep fry them. The dish became an instant hit and gained widespread popularity.
Another theory suggests that jalapeño poppers were actually created in the late 1960s by a chef named Matt Friedman. Friedman and his business partner owned a chain of Mexican-style restaurants called Matt's Rancho Martinez in Dallas, Texas. They allegedly devised the recipe of stuffing jalapeños with cheese, wrapping them in bacon, and then grilling them. This version of poppers was reportedly called "Armadillo Eggs" and gained popularity before the deep-fried version took over.
It is important to note that while these theories provide possible origins, the exact origin of jalapeño poppers remains somewhat uncertain as many people claim to have created them or encountered them independently.
Regardless of their precise origin, jalapeño poppers have since become popular worldwide. They can be found on menus at various restaurants and are also frequently made at home. The recipe has evolved over the years, with variations that include different types of cheese, additional fillings like bacon or shrimp, and even baked or air-fried versions for those seeking a healthier alternative.
Today, jalapeño poppers are enjoyed as a spicy and cheesy appetizer that adds flavor and heat to any gathering or meal.
Without further ado, let’s get to it!
Ingredients:
- 12 fresh jalapeño peppers
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 12 slices of bacon, cut in half (optional for a tasty twist)
- Toothpicks (if using bacon)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Carefully slice each jalapeño in half lengthwise with a knife.
3. Using a spoon, gently scrape them out, creating little jalapeño boats. You can wear gloves if you’re sensitive to jalapeños' heat.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Mix it all together.
5. Fill each jalapeño boat with a generous amount of the cream cheese mixture.
6. Optional step: If you’d like to add a smoky twist, wrap each stuffed jalapeño half with a slice of bacon and secure it with a toothpick.
7. Place the jalapeño poppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, making sure they’re evenly spaced and not touching.
8. Pop them into the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the jalapeños are tender and the cheese is golden and bubbly.
9. Once beautifully baked, carefully remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.
Feel free to experiment with the recipe by adding chopped cooked bacon, diced jalapeños, or any other ingredient you fancy. Make it your own!
Enjoy your jalapeño poppers!
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