Jalapeno poppers are a popular appetizer consisting of jalapeno peppers that have been hollowed out, filled with a creamy cheese mixture, then breaded and deep fried. They provide a perfect combination of heat from the jalapeno and rich, gooey cheese in each bite. But what should you serve alongside these tasty morsels? There are many options that pair well with jalapeno poppers to make a complete appetizer spread. In this article, we’ll explore what sides and dips complement jalapeno poppers best.
What are jalapeno poppers?
Jalapeno poppers are jalapeno chili peppers that have been hollowed out, filled with cheese, usually a creamy cheese like cream cheese, then breaded and deep fried. The stuffing melts into a hot, gooey filling when cooked providing a delicious cheesy kick in each bite. The breaded exterior provides a crispy texture contrasting with the soft interior.
Jalapeno peppers on their own have a fresh, bright heat. By removing the seeds and membranes the heat mellows slightly. The creaminess of the cheese balances out the heat even more making them an appetizer with a nice spicy kick but not too overwhelming.
The most common way to make jalapeno poppers is to:
- Slice fresh jalapeno peppers lengthwise and remove seeds and membranes
- Fill the pepper halves with a creamycheese like cream cheese, sharp cheddar, pepper jack, etc.
- Dip stuffed peppers in egg then coat in breadcrumbs, crushed crackers, corn flakes, or panko
- Deep fry until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes
The appetizer originated in the Southwestern United States where fresh jalapenos are abundant. The combination of breaded, fried food and cheese is a popular one in Tex-Mex cooking. Jalapeno poppers combine the best of both worlds.
What do jalapeno poppers taste like?
When cooked correctly, jalapeno poppers have a crispy, crunchy exterior giving way to an interior filled with hot, melted cheese. Each bite will have a mix of textures from the crispy coating and gooey cheese filling.
Flavor-wise you get a combination of spice from the jalapeno pepper. The heat level depends on the particular peppers used. Some are quite mild while others bring intense heat. For a pleasant spicy kick without being overwhelming look for poppers made with fresno or guejillo chilies rather than the super hot ghost pepper!
The filling lends a rich, indulgent, creamy flavor. Popular cheeses include cheddar, cream cheese, pepper jack, and goat cheese. Sharp cheddar or pepper jack complement the heat while cream cheese mellows it out. The filling adds a satisfying cheesy element.
Overall jalapeno poppers offer the perfect balance of crispy, hot, cheesy, and spicy flavors. They have more interest and variety than many fried appetizers. The combination of textures and flavor contrast make them highly addictive!
What can I stuff jalapeno poppers with?
While the classic filling for jalapeno poppers is cream cheese or cheddar, you can get creative with the filling to suit your tastes. Consider the following alternative fillings:
Meat
Try a blend of cream cheese with cooked sausage, bacon, or ground beef for hearty poppers. The meat adds extra richness.
Vegetarian
For vegetarian poppers try a blend of cream cheese, shredded cheese, and chopped spinach or sun-dried tomatoes. Roasted garlic or caramelized onions also make flavorful fillings.
Cheeses
Mix it up by using pepper jack, monterey jack, goat cheese, bleu cheese, or brie as the filling instead of just cheddar or cream cheese. Blending two or more cheese varieties creates an extra creamy, complex filling.
Tex-Mex flavors
Mix chopped green chilies, salsa, or taco seasoning into the cream cheese filling for a Tex-Mex twist. Diced roasted red peppers also add nice flavor.
Seafood
For an upscale appetizer use a mix of cream cheese and shredded crab meat or imitation crab. Smoked salmon and capers also makes a delicious stuffing.
Mediterranean
Feta, sun-dried tomatoes, artichoke hearts, roasted garlic, basil, and olives can elevate jalapeno poppers to a Mediterranean flavor profile.
Get creative and make the filling your own! Just be sure it includes enough cheese to properly melt into that ideal gooey texture.
What foods complement jalapeno poppers?
Jalapeno poppers on their own make a great snack or appetizer. But for a full spread, you’ll want to serve additional items alongside them. There are many options for great pairings with poppers:
Dips and sauces
| Dip/Sauce | Flavor Notes |
|---|---|
| Ranch dressing | Cool, creamy dip that balances heat |
| Blue cheese dressing | Tangy, rich dip with bite |
| Sour cream | Cooling sour cream cools heat |
| Guacamole | Creamy, flavorful dip |
| Salsa | Fresh tomato flavor |
| Queso dip | More melty cheese! |
Having a dipping sauce for poppers allows you to balance and cut the heat. Cool, creamy dips work best. Serve two or more options for variety.
Crunchy vegetables
Fresh vegetables add crunch and flavor contrast. Options like:
- Carrots
- Celery
- Cucumber
- Snap peas
- Radishes
- Jicama
- Bell peppers
Cut into slices or sticks for easy dipping. Ranch makes a perfect pairing.
Bread
Bread offers a starch to balance the appetizer. Options like:
- Garlic bread
- Pizza bread
- Pretzel bites
- Pita chips
- Tortilla chips
The crunch of bread or chips offsets the poppers’ soft filling.
Meat snacks
For heartier appetites, add small meat snacks like:
- Meatballs
- Sausages
- Cocktail wieners
- Bacon wrapped anything
- Wings or drums
- Chicken tenders
The protein makes it a mini-meal. Barbecue sauce pairs well with meat options.
Cheese
Extra cheese options like:
- Cheese cubes
- Cheese straws
- Cheese ball
Give more melty, gooey options. Because you really can’t have too much cheese!
Full menu ideas
Bring the above elements together to create a full jalapeno poppers party spread!
Tex-Mex Fiesta
- Jalapeno poppers
- Chips and salsa
- Queso dip
- Guacamole
- Tortilla chips
Lean into the Tex-Mex theme with traditional dips and snacks.
Game Day Spread
- Jalapeno poppers
- Chicken wings
- Pigs in a blanket
- Cheese ball
- Ranch dressing
- Blue cheese dressing
- Celery and carrots
- Potato chips
Finger foods and dips make the ideal football watching lineup.
Backyard BBQ
- Jalapeno poppers
- Sliders
- Potato salad
- Baked beans
- Corn on the cob
- Coleslaw
- Chips and dip
Classic summer favorites pair well for a cookout.
Fondue Night
- Jalapeno poppers
- Bread cubes
- Cheese cubes
- Cherry tomatoes
- Crudités
- Ranch dressing
- Chocolate fondue
Cheese, chocolate, and dippable bites for a fun retro evening.
Making jalapeno poppers
Want to make your own jalapeno poppers at home? Here are some tips:
Ingredients
- 12-24 jalapeno peppers, halved lengthwise with seeds removed
- 8 oz cream cheese, room temperature
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or pepper jack cheese
- 1/4 cup minced scallions or chives (optional)
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup breadcrumbs or panko
- Oil for frying
This makes enough to serve 6-8 people. Adjust quantities as needed.
Filling
Mix together the cream cheese, shredded cheese, and scallions/chives if using. Spoon filling evenly into the halved peppers. The filling should come just slightly above the top edge to allow room for expansion as it melts.
Breading
Dredge stuffed peppers in flour, dip in egg, then coat thoroughly in breadcrumbs. For a very crunchy exterior double dredge by dipping in egg and breadcrumbs again.
Frying
Heat 1 inch depth oil to 350°F in a pot or pan. Fry breaded poppers 2-3 minutes until golden brown, turning once. Drain on a paper towel lined plate.
Serving
Serve jalapeno poppers warm or at room temperature accompanied by desired sauces and sides!
Adjust the filling ingredients to personalize the flavors. Just be sure to include plenty of cheese for the iconic gooey center.
Conclusion
Jalapeno poppers are the perfect spicy, cheesy appetizer! When served alongside complementary dips, breads, snacks, and protein they become an entire party menu.
There are endless options for what to pair with poppers depending on the occasion. Fill up on cheese, meat, and vegetable options for a hearty, crowd-pleasing spread. Or go lighter with fresh crudité and dipping sauces.
Jalapeno poppers also make an easy to prepare recipe for home. By using fresh ingredients and your choice of fillings, you can customize them exactly to your taste. Fried to crispy, golden perfection with a melty cheese interior, poppers are sure to get any gathering off to a delicious start!