Description
These Crunchy Turkey Cheddar Jalapeño Poppers are a spicy, cheesy, and satisfying appetizer perfect for game days or gatherings. Filled with seasoned ground turkey, cheddar cheese, and cream cheese, then coated in crispy panko crumbs, they deliver the perfect crunch with every bite.
Ingredients
- 12 fresh jalapeños, halved and deseeded
- 1/2 lb ground turkey
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1.5 cups panko breadcrumbs
- Cooking spray or oil for baking
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground turkey until browned. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Set aside to cool slightly.
- In a bowl, combine the cooled turkey, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and mozzarella if using. Mix until fully combined.
- Fill each jalapeño half with the turkey and cheese mixture.
- Prepare a breading station with three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten egg, and one with panko breadcrumbs.
- Dip each filled jalapeño first in flour, then egg, then panko, pressing lightly to adhere the crumbs.
- Place poppers on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray with cooking oil.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce if desired.
Notes
- Wear gloves when handling jalapeños to avoid skin irritation.
- For extra crispiness, broil the poppers for the last 2 minutes.
- Can be made ahead and frozen before baking—just bake from frozen, adding 5–7 extra minutes.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 poppers
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 230mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
