Every party deserves a showstopper, right? These Sausage Jalapeno Poppers are like the rockstars of the appetizer world—bold, spicy, and gone before you know it. Trust me, they pack a punch that’ll have your guests talking long after the party lights go out, kind of like that viral cat video everyone couldn’t stop sharing last week.
Steps
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to prepare for baking the poppers.
- Cook 1 cup of ground pork sausage in a skillet until browned, then set it aside to cool slightly.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked sausage with 8 ounces of softened cream cheese, 1 cup of shredded Parmesan cheese, ¼ teaspoon of ground pepper, and ½ teaspoon of onion powder, stirring until well blended.
- Slice 10-12 large jalapeno peppers in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes to reduce their heat.
- Fill each jalapeno half with approximately 1 tablespoon of the sausage and cheese mixture.
- Arrange the stuffed jalapenos in a baking dish, making sure they are snugly placed to prevent tipping.
- Bake the poppers in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the tops are bubbly and lightly browned.
- Serve the jalapeno poppers hot for the best flavor and texture.
Ingredients
- 10-12 large jalapeno peppers, halved lengthwise and seeds removed
- 1 cup ground pork sausage, cooked
- 8 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
- 1 cup (100 g) shredded parmesan cheese
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
FAQ
- How can I ensure my jalapeno peppers are spicier?
- To select spicier jalapeno peppers, look for those with white marks on the skin. These marks indicate that the peppers are older and often have a stronger kick compared to younger peppers.
- What can I substitute for pork sausage in this recipe?
- If you’re not a fan of pork sausage, you can experiment with using bacon instead. There are also different variations, such as Bacon Jalapeno Poppers, that you might enjoy.
- Can I change the cheese types in this recipe?
- Absolutely, you can substitute the cream cheese and Parmesan with your preferred cheeses. Sharp white cheddar or gruyere can be excellent alternatives, and using a jack blend also works well.
- What is the best method to cut and deseed jalapeno peppers?
- When cutting jalapeno peppers, it’s advisable to wear gloves or use a paper towel to hold the pepper. Slice it lengthwise to expose the seeds and membranes, then use a spoon to scrape out the membrane and seeds carefully, ensuring you avoid contact with your eyes and nose.
- Can jalapeno poppers be frozen for later use?
- Yes, you can freeze jalapeno poppers before the baking step. Arrange them on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for a few months, and when ready to eat, let them thaw before baking.
Tips
- When handling jalapenos, wear gloves or use a paper towel to prevent the transfer of heat-causing oils to your skin, which can lead to irritation if you touch your face.
- For a spicier flavor, opt for jalapeno peppers with white lines, as these indicate they are older and have a stronger heat.
- Customize the cheese in the filling to suit your preferences or available ingredients; sharp white cheddar or gruyere can be delicious alternatives to the traditional cream cheese and Parmesan.
- To freeze jalapeno poppers for later use, prepare them up to the baking stage, then freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. Thaw before baking for best results.
Equipment
- Gloves – For safely handling jalapeno peppers without direct skin contact.
- Baking Dish – For arranging and baking the stuffed jalapeno halves.
- Freezer-Safe Zipped Bags – If you plan to freeze the poppers for later use.
