Sausage Jalapeno Poppers Recipe

Jalapenos: Fresh, halved, and seeded to hold the filling and provide a spicy kick.

Cream cheese: Softened to mix easily and add a creamy texture to the filling.

Sausage: Cooked and crumbled to add a savory, meaty flavor.

Cheddar cheese: Shredded to melt perfectly and add a cheesy goodness.

Garlic powder: Adds a subtle garlic flavor to enhance the overall taste.

When preparing the jalapenos, make sure to wear gloves to avoid any irritation from the capsaicin. After halving and seeding, you can soak them in cold water for about 15 minutes to reduce their heat if you prefer a milder flavor.

• halved and seeded jalapenos - Substitute with mini bell peppers: Mini bell peppers are milder and provide a similar crunch, making them a great alternative for those who prefer less heat.

• softened cream cheese - Substitute with goat cheese: Goat cheese offers a tangy flavor and creamy texture, which can add a unique twist to the poppers.

• cooked and crumbled sausage - Substitute with ground turkey: Ground turkey is a leaner option and can be seasoned similarly to sausage for a healthier alternative.

• shredded cheddar cheese - Substitute with Monterey Jack cheese: Monterey Jack melts well and has a mild flavor that complements the other ingredients.

• garlic powder - Substitute with minced fresh garlic: Fresh garlic provides a more robust and aromatic flavor compared to garlic powder.

• Allow the jalapeno poppers to cool completely after baking. This prevents condensation and sogginess when stored.
• Place the cooled poppers in an airtight container. For added protection, you can wrap each popper individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store the container in the refrigerator if you plan to consume the poppers within 3-4 days. This keeps the cream cheese filling fresh and the jalapenos crisp.
• For longer storage, arrange the cooled poppers on a baking sheet in a single layer, ensuring they do not touch. Freeze them for 1-2 hours until they are firm.
• Transfer the frozen poppers to a resealable freezer bag or airtight container. Label with the date to keep track of freshness.
• When ready to enjoy, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the frozen poppers on a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the jalapenos are tender.
• If reheating from the refrigerator, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is bubbly.
• Avoid microwaving the poppers, as this can make the jalapenos soggy and the cheese filling unevenly heated.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the leftover sausage jalapeno poppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  3. Cover them loosely with aluminum foil to prevent excessive browning.
  4. Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and the jalapenos are heated through.
  5. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes if you want a crispier top.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Place the sausage jalapeno poppers on a microwave-safe plate.
  2. Cover them with a microwave-safe lid or a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
  3. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure even heating.
  4. Let them sit for a minute before serving to allow the cheese to settle.

• Air Fryer Method:

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Arrange the sausage jalapeno poppers in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
  3. Heat for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even heating.
  4. Check for desired crispiness and heat through.

• Stovetop Method:

  1. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
  2. Place the sausage jalapeno poppers in the skillet, cut side up.
  3. Cover the skillet with a lid to trap the heat.
  4. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the jalapenos are warmed through.
  5. For extra crispiness, remove the lid for the last 2 minutes.

• Oven: Used to bake the stuffed jalapenos until they are tender and the cheese is bubbly.

• Mixing bowl: Used to combine the cream cheese, sausage, cheddar cheese, and garlic powder.

• Baking sheet: Used to place the stuffed jalapenos on for baking.

• Spatula: Used to mix the ingredients together in the mixing bowl.

• Spoon: Used to stuff each jalapeno half with the cheese mixture.

• Knife: Used to halve and seed the jalapenos.

• Cutting board: Used as a surface to halve and seed the jalapenos.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure out the garlic powder.

• Measuring cup: Used to measure out the shredded cheddar cheese.

Prepare ingredients ahead: Cook and crumble the sausage in advance. Soften the cream cheese and shred the cheddar cheese beforehand to streamline the process.

Use a piping bag: Transfer the cheese mixture into a piping bag for quick and easy stuffing of the jalapenos.

Line the baking sheet: Use parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to minimize cleanup time after baking.

Preheat the oven: Ensure the oven is preheated to 400°F (200°C) before you start assembling the jalapeno poppers to save waiting time.