Cheddar Cheese And Jalapeno Poppers Recipe

Prepare jalapeños

Wash and dry the jalapeños. Wearing gloves if preferred, slice each jalapeño lengthwise in half and use a small spoon to remove seeds and membranes to reduce heat (leave some seeds if you want extra heat). Pat dry.

Make cheese filling

In a medium bowl combine shredded cheddar, softened cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix with a fork until smooth and evenly combined.

Stuff jalapeños

Spoon or pipe the cheese mixture into each jalapeño half, slightly mounding the filling so it stays inside during breading and frying. You should have enough filling for five whole jalapeños (10 halves).

Set up breading station

Place flour in a shallow bowl. In a second bowl whisk the egg with the milk until combined. Place breadcrumbs in a third shallow bowl. Working one at a time, lightly dust each stuffed jalapeño in flour, shake off excess, dip into the egg wash, then press into breadcrumbs to coat completely. For an extra-crispy double coat, repeat the egg and breadcrumb step once more.

Heat oil

Pour vegetable oil into a heavy skillet or cast-iron pan to come about 1/2 inch up the side (about 1 cup). Heat over medium-high until oil registers 350°F (175°C) on a thermometer or a small breadcrumb sizzles and browns in about 20–30 seconds.

Fry poppers

Carefully add the breaded jalapeño halves to the hot oil in a single layer (do not overcrowd; fry in batches if necessary). Fry 1.5–2.5 minutes per side, turning gently with tongs or a slotted spoon, until golden brown and crispy and the cheese inside is hot and melty. If cheese starts leaking, remove sooner to avoid burning.

Drain and rest

Transfer fried poppers to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Let rest 1–2 minutes so filling firms slightly. Serve warm.

In a small bowl combine store-bought ranch dressing with 1 tablespoon buttermilk (if using) to thin to desired consistency. Stir in minced chives and parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Chill briefly or serve immediately alongside warm poppers.