Go Back

Savory Stuffed Jalapeño Bites

These warm, creamy, and mildly spicy Savory Stuffed Jalapeño Bites are the perfect appetizer for any gathering — quick to assemble and deliciously addictive.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 24 bites
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 90
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 12 large large jalapeños, halved lengthwise and seeded
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon or 1/2 cup cooked breakfast sausage for a meaty version
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions plus extra for garnish
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika optional, for a warm note
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs for topping
  • 1–2 tbsp melted butter or olive oil to toss with panko
  • Optional: a squeeze of lime or a sprinkle of cilantro for serving

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment or lightly grease it.
  2. Prepare the jalapeños: Slice each pepper in half lengthwise and scrape out the seeds and membranes. Arrange pepper halves cut-side up on the baking sheet.
  3. Make the filling: Beat the softened cream cheese until smooth, then stir in cheddar, bacon (or sausage), green onions, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and season with salt and pepper.
  4. Fill the peppers: Use a small spoon to fill each jalapeño half with the cheese mixture, mounding it slightly.
  5. Add the crunchy top: Mix panko with melted butter or olive oil until lightly coated and sprinkle over each filled pepper.
Baking
  1. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the filling bubbles and the panko is golden brown. Broil for 1–2 minutes for a browner top, watching closely.
Serving
  1. Let cool for a couple of minutes, then garnish with extra green onions, cilantro, or a squeeze of lime. Enjoy warm.
Air Fryer Option
  1. Arrange stuffed peppers in a single layer in your air fryer basket. Cook at 370°F (188°C) for 8–10 minutes until hot and crispy.

Notes

For a vegetarian version, replace bacon with finely chopped roasted red pepper or corn. For extra heat, leave seeds in the jalapeños or add cayenne to the filling. If preparing ahead, pre-fill jalapeños and refrigerate for up to 6 hours.