Jalapeño Poppers Crispy Cheese (Print Version)

Crispy, golden jalapeños filled with creamy cheese blend and served alongside a cool ranch dip.

# Ingredient List:

→ 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 (optional)
05 - 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
06 - 1/4 tsp salt

→ Breading

07 - 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
08 - 2 large eggs
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

# Cooking Directions:

01 - Slice each jalapeño in half lengthwise and carefully remove seeds and membranes; wear gloves to protect skin.
02 - Combine cream cheese, shredded cheddar, minced garlic, smoked paprika, and salt in a bowl; mix until smooth.
03 - Fill each jalapeño half with the cheese mixture, pressing gently to ensure full filling.
04 - Arrange flour in one shallow bowl, beat eggs in a second bowl, and mix breadcrumbs with salt and pepper in a third bowl.
05 - Roll each stuffed jalapeño in flour, dip in beaten eggs, then coat evenly with breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to adhere.
06 - Heat vegetable oil to 350°F; fry poppers in batches for 2 to 3 minutes per side until golden brown; drain on paper towels.
07 - Present poppers warm accompanied by ranch dressing.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • These poppers deliver that perfect contrast of spicy pepper against cool, creamy filling that makes people reach for just one more every single time
  • The breading creates an incredibly satisfying crunch that gives way to molten cheese, plus they reheat surprisingly well for leftovers
02 -
  • Overcrowding the pan will drop the oil temperature dramatically, resulting in soggy, greasy poppers instead of crispy ones
  • Let the fried poppers drain on paper towels for at least 30 seconds before serving, otherwise they'll leave oil spots everywhere
03 -
  • Double-coating by repeating the egg and breadcrumb steps creates an extra-crusty exterior that stays crispy longer
  • If your oil starts getting too dark between batches, strain it through cheesecloth or just replace it entirely for the best flavor
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