Crispy Jalapeño Poppers (Printer-friendly)

Golden jalapeño halves filled with seasoned cream cheese, breaded and fried until crispy. Paired with cool ranch for perfect heat balance.

# What You'll Need:

→ Jalapeños

01 - 8 large fresh jalapeño peppers

→ Cheese Filling

02 - 4 oz cream cheese, softened
03 - 2 oz shredded cheddar cheese
04 - 1 small garlic clove, minced
05 - 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
06 - 1/4 tsp salt

→ Breading

07 - 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
08 - 2 large eggs, beaten
09 - 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
10 - 1/2 tsp salt
11 - 1/4 tsp black pepper

→ For Frying

12 - Vegetable oil for deep frying

→ Ranch Dip

13 - 1/2 cup prepared ranch dressing

# How-To Steps:

01 - Slice each jalapeño in half lengthwise. Carefully remove seeds and membranes. Wear gloves to protect your hands from capsaicin irritation.
02 - Combine cream cheese, shredded cheddar, minced garlic, smoked paprika, and salt in a mixing bowl. Blend until completely smooth and uniform.
03 - Fill each jalapeño half with the cheese mixture, pressing gently to ensure the cavity is completely filled without overflow.
04 - Arrange three shallow bowls: place flour in the first, beaten eggs in the second, and combine breadcrumbs with salt and pepper in the third.
05 - Dredge each stuffed jalapeño in flour, shaking off excess. Dip into egg mixture, then press into breadcrumbs to coat evenly on all sides.
06 - Heat vegetable oil to 350°F. Fry poppers in batches for 2-3 minutes, turning once, until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
07 - Arrange jalapeño poppers on a serving platter and accompany with ranch dip for dipping. Serve immediately while hot and crispy.

# Expert Hints:

01 -
  • The exterior shatters with the most satisfying crunch while the inside stays molten and creamy
  • They come together faster than you can debate whether to order delivery
02 -
  • Removing all the white membranes creates a milder pepper, but leaving some behind adds authentic heat
  • Letting the breaded poppers rest for 10 minutes before frying helps the coating set and prevents slipping
03 -
  • Double coating by repeating the egg and breadcrumb steps creates an extra crunchy shell that really holds up
  • Pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar turns up the heat for spice lovers who want more kick
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