These cheesy little delights are the perfect appetizer. They’re ideal snacks for a Superbowl party but really work well for any occasion. An easier version of a jalapeno popper and not too spicy, even older kids can enjoy these (and some daring younger ones!) Adapted from a Trisha Yearwood recipe, I’ve enjoyed making these for over a decade and they never disappoint!
Ingredients:
(4-6 servings)
- 1 8oz package cream cheese, softened.
- 8 oz grated parmesan
- ¼ cup seeded and diced jalapenos (about 3-4 depending on size)
- 1 jalapeno very thinly sliced into coins (to top the bites)
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp garlic powder plus ½ tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 1.5 cups gluten-free breadcrumbs or cornmeal
Directions:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line a baking sheet with foil and grease with cooking spray.
Slice 3-4 jalapenos in half, then use a small spoon to scrape the seeds out. Dice the jalapenos.
Thinly slice the remaining jalapenos into coins and set aside.
In a medium bowl, mix the cream cheese, 1 tsp garlic powder, onion powder, parmesan, egg, and diced jalapenos until combined.
In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs or cornmeal with ½ tsp salt and ½ tsp garlic powder.
Form into ½ Tablespoon sized balls.
Roll each formed ball through the breadcrumbs and place on greased baking sheet, at least two inches apart.
Gently press a thinly sliced jalapeno coin onto each ball.
Bake for 12-15 minutes.
Allow to cool for 10 minutes and then transfer to a plate.
Enjoy them warm or at room temperature!
Store in an airtight container up to 4 days.
Extras:
Add 3-4 Tbsp of crumbled bacon for delicious flavor and added crunch
Shredded parmesan works in a pinch
I suggest using food-safe gloves to handle the jalapenos. I can never get the oil off my hands!
If your family really loves spice, add a ¼ tsp cayenne pepper.
If using both cornmeal and breadcrumbs, use ¾ cups of each in separate bowls. (I used one of each for this recipe)
I haven’t tested it out, but I imagine these would be amazing in an air fryer!
In my experience, every single jalapeno is different when it comes to spice level! Some have absolutely none, and some are very hot, so keep in mind that results may vary on the spice-scale.
PIN THIS!
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