Spicy Mexican Jalapeño Poppers with Cotija Cheese

Name: Spicy Mexican Jalapeño Poppers with Cotija Cheese
Prep time: 45 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 poppers
Cuisine: Appetizer
Ingredients: Jalapeño peppers; Cream cheese; Cotija cheese; Cheddar cheese; Garlic powder; Cumin; Salt; Panko breadcrumbs; Smoked paprika; Cooking spray or olive oil

A spicy and cheesy delight ready in no time

These irresistible jalapeño poppers are a perfect blend of cream cheese, crunchy breadcrumbs, and tangy cotija, bringing a delightful heat that’ll enliven your taste buds.

45 min
12 poppers
Easy

Ingredients

For the Jalapeños

Jalapeño peppers

12 — halved and seeded

For the Filling

Cream cheese

1 cup — softened

Cotija cheese

1/2 cup — crumbled

Cheddar cheese

1/4 cup — shredded

Garlic powder

1 teaspoon

Cumin

1/2 teaspoon

Salt

to taste

For the Coating

Panko breadcrumbs

1 cup

Smoked paprika

1/2 teaspoon

Cooking spray or olive oil

as needed

Preparation

Preparing the Jalapeños

Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Prep Jalapeños

Cut the jalapeños in half lengthwise and remove seeds and membranes.

Ensure all seeds and membranes are removed for milder heat.

Making the Filling

Combine Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, cotija, cheddar, garlic powder, cumin, and a pinch of salt.

Mix Filling

Mix until smooth and well combined.

Fill Jalapeños

Fill each jalapeño half with a generous scoop of the filling.

For extra crunch, toast the panko breadcrumbs lightly before use.

Cooking Process

Coating the Poppers

Roll the filled jalapeños in panko mixed with smoked paprika.

Arrange on Tray

Place the coated jalapeños on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake

Lightly spray with cooking spray or brush with olive oil, then bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes.

Optional broiling: broil on high for 1-2 minutes for extra color.

Plating & Serving