Grilled Jalapeño Poppers Recipe

Posted by Percival Langley November 8, 2024

Ingredients

For the Filling

The filling for the grilled jalapeño poppers can be a mix of creamy and spicy ingredients that complement the smoky flavor of the grilled peppers.

Here are some possible ingredients you can use for the filling:

  • Cream Cheese: A classic ingredient in many stuffed pepper recipes, cream cheese adds a rich and smooth texture to the filling.
  • Ricotta Cheese: Similar to cream cheese, ricotta provides a light and airy texture that pairs well with spicy peppers.
  • Shredded Cheddar or Monterey Jack Cheese: Adding some shredded cheese can add flavor and a bit of melted gooeyness to the filling.
  • Bacon, diced: Crumbled bacon adds a smoky and savory flavor that pairs well with the jalapeños.
  • Cooked, crumbled chorizo or breakfast sausage: Adding some spicy chorizo or breakfast sausage can add depth of flavor to the filling.
  • Minced onions or garlic: Sauteing some onions and garlic before mixing with cheese and other ingredients can add a caramelized flavor to the filling.

You can mix and match these ingredients in various combinations to suit your taste preferences. Some examples include:

  • Classic cream cheese and shredded cheddar: A simple but effective combination that works well with jalapeños.
  • Ricotta and diced bacon: Provides a lighter, airier texture and a smoky flavor from the bacon.
  • Chorizo and cream cheese: Adds a spicy kick from the chorizo that complements the jalapeños nicely.

Remember to adjust the amount of ingredients according to your taste preferences, and have fun experimenting with different combinations!

1 cup cream cheese, softened

The first ingredient we’ll need for our Grilled Jalapeño Poppers recipe is one cup of cream cheese, softened. Softening the cream cheese is crucial as it will help to achieve a smooth and creamy texture that’s essential for filling the jalapeños.

When selecting cream cheese, look for a high-quality brand that has a good balance of richness and tanginess. Some popular brands include Philadelphia or Kraft, but feel free to choose your favorite brand.

To ensure the cream cheese is softened correctly, you can leave it at room temperature for about 30 minutes before using it. Alternatively, you can also soften it in the microwave by heating it in 10-second increments until it reaches a spreadable consistency.

It’s worth noting that you should avoid over-softening the cream cheese as this can make it too runny and difficult to work with. The goal is to achieve a smooth, creamy texture that’s still firm enough to hold its shape when filled into the jalapeños.

If you’re planning to use your Grilled Jalapeño Poppers for an appetizer or snack, you may want to consider using a flavored cream cheese such as garlic and herb or smoked salmon. This will add an extra layer of flavor to your poppers that’s sure to impress your guests.

In terms of storage, it’s best to keep the softened cream cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use it. Be sure to label the container clearly so you know what’s inside and how long it’s been there.

1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

The shredded cheddar cheese is a key ingredient in our Grilled Jalapeño Poppers Recipe, adding a rich and creamy flavor to these spicy treats.

To achieve the perfect melted cheese effect, it’s essential to use high-quality cheddar cheese. We recommend a sharp or extra-sharp variety for an intense, tangy taste.

One-half cup of shredded cheddar cheese is sufficient for our recipe. You can adjust the amount according to your personal preference and the number of jalapeños you’re using.

When selecting cheddar cheese, look for a block or a bag that contains 100% cheddar cheese, without any additives or preservatives. This will ensure the best flavor and texture in our Grilled Jalapeño Poppers.

For optimal results, make sure to shred the cheddar cheese just before using it. You can use either a box grater or a food processor with the shredding attachment to achieve a uniform texture.

Shredded cheddar cheese has a distinct advantage over sliced or cubed cheese in this recipe: it melts more evenly and quickly, ensuring that each popper is fully coated and deliciously cheesy.

In summary, using high-quality shredded cheddar cheese is crucial for the success of our Grilled Jalapeño Poppers Recipe. Its rich flavor and creamy texture complement the spicy kick of the jalapeños perfectly, making these poppers a crowd-pleaser.

1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped

The ingredients for this delicious Grilled Jalapeño Poppers Recipe include:

Main Ingredients

  • 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped – This is the main ingredient that gives the poppers their signature heat and flavor.

Pantry Staples

  • Cream cheese: Softened to room temperature for easy spreading. (8 ounces)
  • Shredded cheddar cheese: Adds a rich, creamy flavor to the poppers. (1 cup)
  • Breadcrumbs: Panko or regular breadcrumbs work well for coating the poppers. (1/2 cup)

Aromatics

  • Minced garlic: Adds a savory flavor to the filling. (3 cloves)
  • Chopped cilantro or scallions: Add a fresh, oniony flavor. (1/4 cup)

Pantry

  • Olive oil: For brushing the peppers and breading them before grilling.
  • Salt: To taste, for balancing out the heat of the jalapeños.
  • Paprika: Adds a smoky flavor to the poppers. (optional)

1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro

Cilantro is a popular herb used to add flavor and freshness to various dishes, including this Grilled Jalapeño Poppers Recipe.

The key ingredient in question is 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh cilantro. This small amount may seem insignificant, but it plays a crucial role in balancing the spicy heat from the jalapeños with its mild citrus and herbal notes.

Cilantro’s flavor profile is often described as having a slightly bitter or soapy taste to some people, due to its high concentration of aldehydes. However, when used in moderation, such as 1 tablespoon, it can enhance the overall aroma and taste of the dish without overpowering it.

It’s worth noting that cilantro is a polarizing ingredient, with some people absolutely adoring its flavor and others finding it unpleasant. If you’re part of the latter group, you may want to reduce or omit this ingredient altogether.

In terms of nutritional benefits, 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh cilantro contains approximately 0.5 calories, 0g protein, 0g fat, and 0g carbohydrates. It’s also rich in antioxidants and provides a small amount of fiber.

To properly prepare the cilantro for this recipe, simply wash and pat dry a sprig or two, then chop off the desired amount (1 tablespoon) using a sharp knife or kitchen shears. You can also use pre-chopped fresh cilantro if you prefer to save time.

For the Breading

When it comes to creating the perfect breading for grilled jalapeño poppers, you’ll want to focus on ingredients that add a satisfying crunch and flavor contrast to the spicy peppers.

The primary components of an effective breading mixture are a starch source, a seasonings blend, and a binder. Let’s break down each component:

Starch Source

This can be either all-purpose flour, panko breadcrumbs, or even cornstarch. The key is to choose a starch that provides structure without overpowering the other flavors.

For this recipe, you may prefer panko breadcrumbs for their airy texture and delicate flavor. Simply crush them in a food processor to create finer crumbs.

Seasonings Blend

This blend adds depth and warmth to your breading mixture. Classic choices include paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Feel free to experiment with different seasoning blends to suit your taste preferences.

A general rule of thumb is to use about 1 tablespoon of seasonings for every cup of starch source. For example, if using all-purpose flour as your starch source, you could mix in 1 tablespoon of paprika, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper.

The binder helps hold the breading mixture together, preventing it from falling apart when submerged in wet ingredients. Egg or egg whites work well as binders, but you can also use a small amount of mayonnaise or even water as an alternative.

A good ratio to aim for is 1 egg (beaten) per cup of starch source. This will provide enough moisture and cohesion without overpowering the other flavors.

1 cup all purpose flour

All-purpose flour is a fundamental ingredient used to coat and adhere the external layer of the jalapeño popper, playing a crucial role in achieving a crunchy exterior while maintaining the softness of the filling within.

The type of all-purpose flour used for this recipe can be any unbleached variety available in most supermarkets or local bakeries. It is essential to use unbleached flour as it will provide the best results when combined with other ingredients and cooking methods.

It’s worth noting that using bread flour, which has a higher protein content than all-purpose flour, may result in an overly dense coating on the jalapeño poppers. Cake flour or pastry flour can also be used if desired, but the flavor and texture of the final product might differ slightly.

In terms of the actual measurement, one cup of all-purpose flour is sufficient for dusting a dozen to 16 jalapeños, depending on their size. If using smaller jalapeños, you may need to adjust the amount accordingly. However, it’s better to have extra flour than not enough, as this allows for more even coating and prevents any potential mess.

1/2 cup cornstarch

Cornstarch is a common ingredient used in many recipes, including our Grilled Jalapeño Poppers recipe. It serves as a thickening agent and helps to create a smooth texture when mixed with other ingredients.

In the context of our recipe, 1/2 cup cornstarch is added to the cream cheese mixture along with other ingredients such as shredded cheddar cheese, chopped cilantro, lime juice, and garlic. The cornstarch helps to balance out the flavors and prevents the filling from becoming too runny or soggy.

The importance of using cornstarch in this recipe cannot be overstated. Without it, the filling may not hold together properly, leading to a messy and unappealing popper. By incorporating 1/2 cup of cornstarch into the mixture, you can ensure that your jalapeño poppers turn out perfectly every time.

Cornstarch is also useful in other aspects of our Grilled Jalapeño Poppers recipe. For example, it can be used to make a slurry with cold water, which is then brushed onto the poppers during the grilling process. This helps to create a crispy exterior and prevents the cheese from oozing out of the peppers.

The ratio of cornstarch to other ingredients in our recipe is carefully balanced to achieve the perfect texture and flavor. By using 1/2 cup cornstarch, we are able to create a filling that is both creamy and firm, making it easy to shape into poppers and grill to perfection.

Instructions

Preparing the Jalapeños

To prepare the jalapeños for grilling, follow these steps:

Step 1: Choose Fresh Jalapeños

Select fresh and firm jalapeños for the best flavor and texture. Avoid using wilted or soft peppers as they may not hold their shape during cooking.

Step 2: Wash and Pat Dry

  • Wash the jalapeños under cold running water to remove any dirt, bacteria, or other impurities.
  • Gently pat the peppers dry with a clean towel or paper towels to remove excess moisture.

Step 3: Remove Seeds and Membranes

Using a sharp knife or a spoon, carefully remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeños. This will reduce the heat level of the peppers and make them easier to stuff.

Step 4: Cut a Slit Down One Side

  • Cut a shallow slit down one side of each jalapeño, being careful not to cut too deeply and damage the pepper’s shape.
  • This will create a pocket for filling with cream cheese or other ingredients.

Step 5: Prepare Fillings (Not Included in this Step-by-Step)

Prepare your favorite fillings, such as cream cheese, shredded cheddar, diced ham, or chopped cilantro. You can also mix and match different ingredients to create unique flavor combinations.

Final Steps: Stuffing and Grilling

  • Stuff each jalapeño pepper with the prepared fillings, making sure not to overfill them.
  • Grill the stuffed jalapeños for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they’re lightly charred and tender.

Now you’re ready to enjoy your delicious grilled jalapeño poppers!

Carefully slice off the tops of the jalapeños, leaving about 1 inch of the stem intact.

To prepare the jalapeños for grilling, it’s essential to carefully slice off the tops of the peppers while leaving about 1 inch of the stem intact.

This process involves several steps that require attention to detail and precision to achieve the desired result.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to carefully slice off the tops of the jalapeños:

  • Slice off the top portion of each jalapeño, about 1 inch from the stem. Be careful not to cut too far and damage the delicate flesh inside.
  • Remove any seeds or white membranes that may be visible inside the pepper. This will help reduce the heat level of the popper and make it more palatable.
  • Rinse the jalapeños under cold water to remove any remaining seeds or debris. Pat them dry with a paper towel to prevent excess moisture from affecting the grilling process.

Once you have prepared the jalapeños, they’re ready for filling and grilling according to your desired recipe.

  • Mildly fill each pepper with cream cheese or a similar spread, making sure not to overfill them. This will help prevent the peppers from bursting open during the grilling process.
  • Top each pepper with any additional ingredients you like, such as shredded cheese or diced ham.
  • Grill the jalapeño poppers over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they’re tender and slightly charred.

Careful slicing of the jalapeños is an essential step in preparing delicious grilled jalapeño poppers. By following these steps, you’ll be able to achieve a perfectly cooked and flavorful snack that’s sure to please even the most discerning palates.

Remove the seeds and membranes to reduce the heat level.

The first step in preparing for the Grilled Jalapeño Poppers recipe involves a crucial process to control the heat level of the dish: removing the seeds and membranes from the jalapeños.

When working with jalapeños, it’s essential to understand that most of the heat is concentrated in the seeds and membranes, which are the white, spongy parts surrounding the pepper’s core. These areas contain capsaicin, the compound responsible for the burning sensation associated with spicy peppers.

To begin, carefully cut off the stems from the jalapeños, using a sharp knife to avoid tearing the peppers.

Next, carefully slice each pepper in half lengthwise to expose the seeds and membranes. You can use a serrated knife or kitchen shears for this step, taking care not to press too hard and risk rupturing the pepper’s delicate interior.

Once you have access to the inside of the peppers, you will see the seeds and membranes. Use a spoon to carefully scoop out the seeds and discard them. Be cautious, as some seeds may stick to the surrounding tissue, so be sure to remove any remaining seeds that cling to the pepper’s interior.

After removing the seeds, turn your attention to the membranes. These can be more challenging to remove, but it’s crucial to do so for a milder heat level. Gently scrape out the white membranes with the spoon or the edge of a knife, being careful not to puncture the surrounding pepper tissue.

With the seeds and membranes removed, you should be left with relatively mild jalapeño peppers that are perfect for grilling into crispy, flavorful poppers.

Now that you’ve completed this critical step in preparing your jalapeños for the recipe, you can proceed to fill and assemble the poppers according to the instructions provided.

Tips and Variations

Adding Extra Flavor

Tips and Variations for Adding Extra Flavor to Grilled Jalapeño Poppers:

One way to take this recipe to the next level is by experimenting with different types of cheese. While traditional cheddar or Monterey Jack are popular choices, you can also try using Pepper Jack, Colby, or even goat cheese to give your poppers a unique flavor profile.

For added depth and complexity, consider adding some diced ham, bacon, or chorizo to the filling. This will not only add smoky, savory flavors but also help balance out the heat from the jalapeños.

Another option is to add some sautéed onions or mushrooms to the mix. This will not only add a sweet and earthy flavor but also help bring everything together in terms of texture.

If you want to kick things up a notch, try adding some diced pineapple or mango to the filling. The sweetness of the fruit will provide a nice contrast to the heat of the jalapeños.

Consider using different types of peppers for added variety. While jalapeños are traditional in poppers, you can also use Anaheim, Poblano, or even habaneros for a spicy kick.

To take your poppers from good to great, focus on balancing the flavors and textures in each bite. Experiment with different combinations of ingredients until you find what works best for you.

One last tip: don’t be afraid to get creative! Grilled jalapeño poppers are a versatile dish that can accommodate a wide range of flavors and ingredients. So go ahead, experiment with new ideas, and see where it takes you!

Add some diced onions or garlic to the filling for extra depth of flavor.

To take your Grilled Jalapeño Poppers to the next level, consider adding some diced onions or garlic to the filling for extra depth of flavor.

This will not only add a pungent and aromatic taste but also enhance the overall texture and mouthfeel of the dish.

Here are some tips and variations to try:

Flavor Enhancers:

  • Add a splash of lime juice: Squeeze some fresh lime juice over the filling for an extra burst of citrus flavor.
  • Mix in some cumin: Add a pinch of cumin to give your poppers a warm, earthy flavor.
  • Use chili powder: Sprinkle some chili powder over the filling for an extra kick of heat.

Bacon bits or crumbled feta cheese: Mix in some crispy bacon bits or crumbled feta cheese to add a smoky, salty flavor to your poppers.

Try different types of cheese:

  • Monterey Jack: A mild, creamy cheese that pairs well with the spicy kick from the jalapeños.
  • Pepper Jack: A spicier variation of Monterey Jack that will add an extra kick to your poppers.

Tips for grilling:

  • Preheat your grill: Make sure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat before adding the poppers.
  • Don’t overcrowd:Grill in batches if necessary, to ensure that each popper has enough room to cook evenly.

Experiment with different types of peppers: Try using other types of hot peppers, such as Serrano, Habanero, or Cayenne, for a unique flavor and heat level.

Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack.

To take your grilled jalapeño poppers to the next level, consider experimenting with various types of cheese.

Monterey Jack and Pepper Jack are great starting points, but feel free to get creative and try other cheeses that will complement or add an extra kick to your poppers.

Tips for Mixing and Matching Cheeses

  • Blend mild and spicy cheeses for a balanced flavor. For example, combine cream cheese with pepper jack for a smooth, yet pungent taste.
  • Try using different textures by mixing soft and hard cheeses. This can create an interesting contrast in each bite.
  • Consider the flavor profile of your chosen cheese. For instance, if you’re using a strong blue cheese, balance it out with some creamy brie or goat cheese.

Cheese Pairing Suggestions

  • Monterey Jack and Cheddar: A classic combination that’s hard to beat. The sharpness of the cheddar complements the mild flavor of Monterey jack.
  • Pepper Jack and Colby: This pairing adds a nice kick from the pepper jack, balanced by the milder taste of colby cheese.
  • Feta and Parmesan: For a salty, savory option, try combining crumbled feta with grated parmesan. Perfect for those who enjoy bold flavors.

Don’t be afraid to experiment and find the perfect blend of cheeses that suit your taste buds. The possibilities are endless when it comes to grilled jalapeño poppers!

Percival Langley
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Percival Langley, the creative force behind this site, holds the unique and delectable title of Gourmet Expert. With a passion for elevating the culinary experiences of our furry companions, Percival shares delightful and nutritious recipes that go beyond the ordinary. His site is a go-to resource for pet owners seeking to pamper their pets with gourmet treats and meals. Percival's expertise in crafting delicious and health-conscious pet cuisine is evident in the tasteful and innovative content he curates. For those who believe in treating their pets to a culinary adventure, Percival Langley's site is a flavorful journey into the world of gourmet pet delights.