Jalapeno poppers are a popular appetizer made by stuffing jalapeno peppers with cheese, coating them in breadcrumbs, and then deep frying them. They have a spicy kick from the jalapeno and a gooey, melted cheese center. While delicious, they are high in calories and fat from being deep fried. If you are looking for a healthier alternative to enjoy the flavors of jalapeno poppers without all the grease, there are several options.
Baked Jalapeno Poppers
One of the easiest alternatives is to bake the jalapeno poppers instead of frying them. Simply prepare them the same way by slicing the peppers lengthwise, removing seeds, filling with cheese, and coating in breadcrumbs or panko. Place on a baking sheet and bake at 400F for 15-20 minutes until the cheese melts and the coating is crispy. This eliminates a significant amount of fat and calories compared to frying.
Jalapeno Popper Stuffed Chicken
For a more substantial dish, you can stuff chicken breasts with the same jalapeno popper filling. Slice chicken breasts part way through the center to create a pocket, then stuff with a mixture of cream cheese, shredded cheddar or mozzarella, diced jalapenos, cilantro, garlic powder, and salt and pepper. Bake at 375F for 25-30 minutes until chicken is cooked through. The creamy, spicy filling baked right into the juicy chicken breast for a lower carb, high protein meal.
Jalapeno Popper Dip
For a party appetizer or snack, you can make a jalapeno popper inspired dip. This has all the great spicy creaminess without the breading. Simply combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheese, diced jalapenos, garlic powder and chili powder. Bake at 350F for 20 minutes until bubbly. Serve hot with tortilla chips or fresh cut vegetables. It’s easy to make ahead or lighten up by using reduced fat cream cheese and low fat shredded cheese.
Jalapeno Popper Stuffed Peppers
For a vegetarian stuffed pepper option, cut bell peppers in half lengthwise and clean out seeds and membranes. Fill with the cheese, jalapeno, and seasoning mixture. Top with breadcrumbs or panko and bake at 400F for 15 minutes. The crisp pepper shell gives you that satisfying crunch without deep frying.
Jalapeno Popper Quesadillas
For an easy weeknight dinner, stuff a spicy jalapeno cream cheese mixture into whole wheat tortillas with shredded cheese. Cook quesadillas in a skillet 2-3 minutes per side until crispy. Slice into wedges and serve with guacamole, salsa and light sour cream for a fresh take on jalapeno poppers.
Jalapeno Popper Salad
Turn your poppers into a main dish salad by topping mixed greens, corn, black beans, and other favorite toppings with bite sized baked jalapeno poppers. The cool greens and vegetables balance the spicy, cheesy poppers for a filling meal. Top with a light cilantro lime dressing.
Jalapeno Popper Sliders
For an on-the-go option, make mini jalapeno popper stuffed burgers. Mix the filling ingredients right into ground turkey or lean ground beef. Form into slider sized patties and grill 3-4 minutes per side. Serve on mini buns with all your favorite burger toppings.
Jalapeno Popper Avocado Toast
For a unique twist on avocado toast, top whole grain toast with mashed avocado and then add a spoonful of jalapeno popper dip. The cool avocado pairs perfectly with the spicy creaminess. Garnish with cilantro and green onion.
Zucchini Jalapeno Poppers
For a lower carb, vegetable packed option, use zucchini in place of traditional breaded jalapeno poppers. Slice zucchini into sticks, roast at 400F for 10 minutes until tender. Allow to cool, then stuff with the jalapeno popper filling. Return to oven 5 more minutes until cheese melts. Sprinkle with fresh chopped herbs.
Crispy Keto Jalapeno Poppers
On a keto diet, you can make baked jalapeno poppers even crispier with this trick. After removing seeds, coat raw jalapeno halves in beaten egg, then finely grated parmesan cheese. Bake at 400F until cheese forms a crispy coating, about 15 minutes. Stuff with cheese and serve.
Ground Turkey Stuffed Jalapenos
For a flavorful low carb option, fill jalapenos with ground turkey cooked with taco seasoning, garlic, diced onion and cilantro. Top stuffed jalapenos with a mix of shredded cheese and crushed pork rinds to give crunch without the carbs. Bake until hot and melty for a fresh, protein packed appetizer.
Conclusion
Jalapeno poppers are an indulgent appetizer with their crispy fried coating and melted cheese. However, you can get the same spicy creaminess in healthier, more nutritious recipes by baking instead of frying and incorporating more vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains and fresh herbs and spices.
With a little creativity, you can enjoy the flavors of jalapeno poppers in everything from stuffed peppers and chicken, to burgers, egg rolls, frittatas, salads, sandwiches and more. Pick your favorite healthy cooking methods like baking, grilling, roasting or air frying and use fresh ingredients to make your own lighter takes on this addictive fiery appetizer.