Ingredients
Scale
- 10–12 fresh jalapeños, halved and de-seeded
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or pepper jack)
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1/4 cup cooked crumbled bacon or sausage
- Optional topping: panko breadcrumbs or extra shredded cheese
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (or air fryer to 375°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
- Slice jalapeños in half lengthwise and remove seeds and membranes. Use gloves or wash hands thoroughly after handling.
- In a bowl, mix softened cream cheese, shredded cheese, garlic powder, green onions, and optional bacon until smooth.
- Fill each jalapeño half with the cheese mixture using a spoon or piping bag. Mound slightly for extra creaminess.
- Sprinkle with breadcrumbs or more cheese, if desired.
- Oven: Bake for 18–20 minutes, until golden and bubbly. Air fryer: Cook at 375°F for 8–10 minutes until crisp.
- Let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
- Choose medium jalapeños for even cooking and consistent size.
- For less heat, soak halved jalapeños in cold water for 30 minutes before filling.
- Use room-temp cream cheese for a smoother mixture.
- Store leftovers in the fridge and reheat in air fryer for crispiness.
- Double the batch—these disappear fast!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking or Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 bites
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 190mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: jalapeño bites, stuffed peppers, spicy appetizer, party food, keto snacks