Baked Jalapeo Poppers (Keto)

Baked Jalapeo Poppers (Keto) are the ultimate snack that beautifully balances creamy, cheesy goodness with a spicy kick. Whether you’re hosting a game night, planning a party, or simply craving a delicious appetizer, these poppers are sure to impress. They’re not just flavorful; they fit perfectly into a keto lifestyle, making them a guilt-free indulgence. With each bite, you’ll get a delightful crunch from the jalapeños and a savory filling that will have you coming back for more. Let’s dive into this satisfying recipe!

What Makes This Recipe Special

These Baked Jalapeo Poppers (Keto) are like a flavor explosion in your mouth. The creamy filling made from cream cheese and cheddar cheese offers a luscious texture that perfectly complements the spiciness of the jalapeños. The addition of green onions and garlic adds depth, while a hint of sriracha can elevate the heat to your liking. Plus, baking rather than frying keeps them lighter and mess-free, making them an ideal choice for a healthier snack.

What You’ll Gather

12 jalapeños, seeded and cut lengthwise
2 tsp avocado oil
18-oz package cream cheese, softened
1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
1 large clove garlic, minced
3 green onions, finely chopped
2 tsp sriracha or hot sauce (optional)
1/2 tsp sea salt
1/4 cup almond flour (optional)

Cook’s Kit

Baking Sheet: A large, rimmed baking sheet is perfect for roasting your poppers evenly.
Parchment Paper: Helps prevent sticking and makes for easy cleanup.
Mixing Bowl: A medium-sized bowl to mix your creamy filling.
Knife and Cutting Board: To handle the jalapeños safely and effectively.
Spoon or Spatula: For filling the jalapeños with the creamy mixture.

Baked Jalapeo Poppers (Keto): Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your poppers bake evenly and get that beautiful golden color.

Step 2: Prepare the Jalapeños

Take your 12 jalapeños, slice them in half lengthwise, and carefully remove the seeds. If you prefer more heat, you can leave some seeds in, but for a milder version, make sure to remove them completely.

Step 3: Make the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, minced garlic, chopped green onions, sea salt, and sriracha (if using). Mix until all the ingredients are well incorporated and creamy.

Step 4: Fill the Jalapeños

Using a spoon or spatula, generously fill each jalapeño half with the cheese mixture. Don’t be shy—make them heaping!

Step 5: Optional Almond Flour Topping

If you like a little crunch, sprinkle almond flour on top of each filled jalapeño. This step is optional but adds a pleasant texture.

Step 6: Arrange and Bake

Place the filled jalapeños on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with avocado oil for added flavor and moisture. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the jalapeños are tender and the tops are golden.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Once baked, let the jalapeño poppers cool for a few minutes. Serve warm, and enjoy the deliciousness!

Smart Substitutions

Cheese: Swap the cheddar for pepper jack for an extra kick.
Hot Sauce: Use your favorite hot sauce instead of sriracha for a different flavor.
Avocado Oil: Olive oil is a great alternative if you prefer a different taste.
Almond Flour: If you want to skip the crunch, simply omit the almond flour.

Cook’s Notes

To ensure even baking, try to keep the jalapeños of similar size.
Feel free to adjust the amount of sriracha based on your spice tolerance.
These poppers can be made ahead and stored in the fridge before baking if you want to prep for a gathering.
If you want to freeze them, prep the jalapeños and filling, then freeze before baking. Bake from frozen but add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Prep Ahead & Store

If you’re planning a party, these Baked Jalapeo Poppers (Keto) can be made ahead of time. Store the filled jalapeños in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. For longer storage, you can freeze the filled poppers. Just pop them in the oven straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to ensure they are heated through.

Reader Questions

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! While cheddar is delicious, feel free to experiment with different cheeses like cream cheese, mozzarella, or pepper jack for a spicy twist.

What if I don’t like spicy food?

If you want to enjoy these poppers without the heat, you can use bell peppers instead of jalapeños. They provide a sweet crunch without the spiciness.

How can I make these poppers dairy-free?

To make these Baked Jalapeo Poppers (Keto) dairy-free, you can use vegan cream cheese and dairy-free cheese alternatives. Just make sure to check the labels for keto-friendly options.

Can I grill these instead of baking?

Yes! Grilling is a fantastic option too. Just place the filled jalapeños on a grill-safe tray and cook them over medium heat until they’re cooked through and bubbly.

Before You Go

Now that you have the recipe for these delightful Baked Jalapeo Poppers (Keto), it’s time to gather your ingredients and get cooking! Whether you’re enjoying them as a snack or serving them at your next gathering, these poppers are sure to be a hit. Remember to share your creations with your friends or on social media. Enjoy the rich flavors and the satisfying crunch in every bite! Happy cooking!