Description
These Jalapeno Popper Bites are crispy, cheesy, and packed with a spicy kick. Cream cheese, sharp cheddar, and bacon are combined with finely chopped jalapeños, rolled into bite-sized balls, breaded, and fried to golden perfection. Perfect as a flavorful appetizer or party snack.
Ingredients
Scale
Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
- 1/4 cup finely chopped jalapeños (seeds removed for less heat)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Breading
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
For Frying
- Oil, for frying (about 2 inches deep in a skillet)
Instructions
- Prepare the filling: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, finely chopped jalapeños, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Form the balls: Roll the cheese mixture into approximately 1-inch balls. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Freeze the balls for at least 20 minutes to help firm them up for easier handling.
- Set up dredging station: Prepare three shallow bowls—one with all-purpose flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs—to coat the balls evenly.
- Bread the bites: Remove the frozen balls from the freezer. Dip each ball first in the flour, shaking off excess, then dip into the beaten eggs, and finally coat thoroughly with panko breadcrumbs.
- Heat the oil: Pour oil into a deep skillet or pot to about 2 inches depth and heat to 350°F (175°C) using a thermometer to maintain the temperature.
- Fry the bites: Fry the breaded jalapeño popper balls in batches, avoiding overcrowding the skillet. Cook each batch for 2 to 3 minutes or until the exterior is golden brown and crispy.
- Drain and serve: Remove the fried bites using a slotted spoon and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve immediately while warm for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- You can bake these at 400°F for 15–18 minutes if you prefer a healthier alternative to frying.
- For more heat, leave some seeds in the jalapeños or substitute sharp cheddar with pepper jack cheese.
- If you want to keep it vegetarian, use vegetarian bacon or omit bacon entirely.
