Stuffed Jalapeños Recipe: A Spicy Appetizer to Impress Your Guests
Looking for an irresistible party appetizer? Stuffed jalapeños are an ideal choice! These spicy, cheesy bites bring a delightful burst of flavour to any gathering.
Whether you’re planning a casual get-together or a more formal event, this simple yet delicious stuffed jalapeño recipe will surely impress your guests.
With just a few basic ingredients and a quick bake time, these jalapeños are the perfect blend of heat and creaminess, making them a must-try dish for your next party.
Ingredients for Stuffed Jalapeños
To prepare this scrumptious dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 4 ounces of cream cheese (at room temperature)
- ½ cup of grated sharp cheddar cheese
- 6 large jalapeños, halved and seeded
- Coarse salt and ground pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions for Stuffed Jalapeños

1. Prepare the Jalapeños
Start by preparing a baking sheet. Line it with parchment paper, which will make cleanup a breeze. Cut the jalapeños in half lengthwise and carefully remove the seeds and membranes.
The seeds contain most of the heat, so removing them will give you a more mild flavour. Be sure to wear gloves to avoid the burn from the jalapeño oil.
2. Make the Cheese Filling
Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). In a small mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese and cheddar. Stir until well-mixed and season with salt and pepper. For an extra kick, you can also mix in some red pepper flakes or hot sauce.

3. Stuff the Jalapeños
Using a small spoon, fill each jalapeño half with approximately one tablespoon of the cheese mixture. Be generous with the filling, but ensure it’s evenly distributed to achieve a balanced bite.
4. Bake the Stuffed Jalapeños
Place the stuffed jalapeños on your prepared baking sheet and pop them into the oven. Bake for about 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbling and golden brown. Rotate the baking sheet halfway through the cooking process to ensure even baking.

5. Serve and Enjoy!
Once baked to perfection, remove the jalapeños from the oven and let them cool for a minute before serving. They’re best enjoyed warm, with the cheesy filling still gooey inside the crisp jalapeño shell.

Stuffed Jalapeños Variations
To customise your stuffed jalapeños and add a personal twist, try these fun variations:
Herbs and Spices
Enhance the flavour of your cheese filling by adding dried herbs and spices. Options like garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley, or taco seasoning can elevate the taste.
Bacon
For a smoky twist, consider folding cooked bacon into the cheese mixture. Alternatively, you can top the stuffed jalapeños with crispy bacon just before baking.
Cheese Blends
Mix up your cheese options for a more complex flavour profile. Combining cheddar with pepper jack cheese adds a spicy, creamy texture. You could also try a Mexican cheese blend, which typically includes a mix of cheeses such as Monterey Jack, cheddar, and Queso Blanco.
Make-Ahead Tips for Stuffed Jalapeños
If you’re preparing for a party or large gathering, these stuffed jalapeños can be made ahead of time. After filling the peppers, cover and refrigerate them until it’s time to bake. This way, you can save time on the day of your event and still serve up freshly baked, cheesy jalapeños.

Nutritional Information for Stuffed Jalapeños
While stuffed jalapeños are undoubtedly delicious, they’re also quite satisfying. The creamy cheese filling balances out the heat of the jalapeños, creating a perfect harmony of flavours.
Although they are not necessarily low-calorie, they are a fun treat to enjoy in moderation at parties or gatherings.
FAQ
What can I serve with stuffed jalapeños?
Stuffed jalapeños pair perfectly with refreshing dips such as sour cream, guacamole, or salsa. They also work well alongside tortilla chips or a simple green salad.
Can I use other types of peppers for this recipe?
Yes! While jalapeños are the classic choice, you can substitute them with milder Anaheim peppers or even spicier options like serrano peppers if you want to up the heat.
How can I make these stuffed jalapeños spicier?
For an extra spicy kick, leave some seeds in the jalapeños, or mix in hot sauce, cayenne pepper, or red pepper flakes to the cheese filling.
Can I prepare stuffed jalapeños ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the stuffed peppers ahead of time and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. Just pop them in the oven when your guests arrive!
Are stuffed jalapeños vegetarian?
Yes, as long as you use vegetarian cheese. The standard ingredients—cheddar and cream cheese—are both vegetarian-friendly.
Conclusion
Stuffed jalapeños are a cheesy, spicy, and satisfying appetizer that is easy to prepare and perfect for parties. Whether you like them mild or extra spicy, this dish offers plenty of room for customisation.
The combination of the creamy cheese filling and the heat from the jalapeños creates a balanced flavour that’s sure to be a hit at any gathering. So, whether you’re hosting a Super Bowl party, a family dinner, or a casual get-together, stuffed jalapeños will always be a crowd-pleaser!
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