As a food enthusiast and a home cook, I always find myself on the lookout for recipes that not only satisfy the palate but also bring joy to those gathered around the table. “Stuffed Jalapeños with Cream Cheese” is one such recipe that has quickly become a family favorite in our household. Each bite is a delightful combination of spice and creaminess, wrapped in savory bacon. Every time I prepare these jalapeños, the anticipation in the air is almost palpable. My family, who are not particularly fond of overly spicy foods, were pleasantly surprised by the balanced flavors and have since requested these stuffed jalapeños for every family gathering. It’s a dish that truly brings everyone together, melting away the day’s stress with each delicious bite.
Ingredients
To create these delectable stuffed jalapeños, you will need the following ingredients:
- 10 fresh jalapeño peppers
- 8 ounces of cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of onion powder
- 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
- 20 strips of bacon
- Toothpicks
Instructions
Creating these stuffed jalapeños is a straightforward process, ensuring you can whip them up even on a busy weeknight without much fuss.
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven is warming up, wash and dry the jalapeños thoroughly. Slice each pepper in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes. This step is crucial if you want to reduce the heat level of the peppers, making them more palatable for those sensitive to spice.
Step 2: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix until the ingredients are well blended and smooth. This creamy mixture will serve as the filling for your jalapeños.
Step 3: Carefully spoon the cream cheese mixture into each jalapeño half, ensuring they are generously filled but not overflowing. The cheese mixture should create a nice mound over each pepper, promising a burst of flavor with every bite.
Step 4: Wrap each stuffed jalapeño half with a strip of bacon, securing it in place with a toothpick. The bacon not only adds a savory element but also helps keep the filling snugly inside the peppers during the cooking process.
Step 5: Place the wrapped jalapeños on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, which will prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the cheese is bubbly.
Step 6: Allow the jalapeños to cool for a few minutes before serving. This resting time lets the flavors meld together beautifully, while also ensuring you won’t burn your mouth on the hot cheese filling.
Nutrition Facts
This recipe serves approximately 10 people, with each serving containing around 200 calories. The balance of protein, fats, and carbohydrates makes these stuffed jalapeños a satisfying treat.
Preparation Time
Total Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
How to Serve
Stuffed Jalapeños with Cream Cheese can be served in various ways to enhance your culinary experience:
- As an appetizer at a dinner party, arranged on a platter with a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.
- As a snack during game nights, paired with an assortment of other finger foods.
- As a side dish at a barbecue, complementing grilled meats like chicken or steak.
- As a topping for salads, adding a spicy, creamy crunch to fresh greens.
- Alongside a cold beer or a crisp white wine, balancing the flavors beautifully.
Additional Tips
To ensure your Stuffed Jalapeños with Cream Cheese turn out perfectly every time, consider these additional tips:
- Choose fresh jalapeños: Fresher peppers will have a better texture and taste. Look for firm, shiny jalapeños with no soft spots.
- Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a milder dish, remove all seeds and membranes. For more heat, leave some seeds intact.
- Experiment with cheeses: While cheddar is a classic choice, feel free to try other cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
- Use a toothpick: Secure the bacon with toothpicks to prevent it from unraveling during cooking, ensuring each bite includes a perfect bacon wrap.
- Prep in advance: You can prepare the jalapeños ahead of time and refrigerate them. Bake just before serving for optimal freshness.
FAQ Section
Q: Can I make these jalapeños ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the jalapeños a day in advance, refrigerate them, and then bake them when you’re ready to serve.
Q: What can I use as a substitution for bacon?
A: If you prefer not to use bacon, turkey bacon or prosciutto are excellent alternatives, providing a similar savory flavor.
Q: Are there any vegetarian alternatives?
A: For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and top the stuffed jalapeños with breadcrumbs and a drizzle of olive oil before baking.
Q: Can I grill the jalapeños instead of baking them?
A: Absolutely! Grilling the jalapeños adds a smoky flavor. Just be sure to cook them over medium heat until the bacon is crispy and the cheese is melted.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftover jalapeños in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat them in the oven to maintain their crisp texture.