If you’re on a keto journey and looking for a delicious snack or appetizer that won’t derail your progress, look no further than these Baked Jalapeo Poppers (Keto). These poppers are the perfect blend of creamy, cheesy goodness with just the right amount of heat. They’re easy to whip up and are sure to impress your family and friends at your next gathering. Plus, they can be enjoyed guilt-free, making them a fantastic choice for anyone following a low-carb lifestyle.
Why Baked Jalapeo Poppers (Keto) is Worth Your Time
These Baked Jalapeo Poppers (Keto) are not just another appetizer; they’re a celebration of flavors and textures. The combination of cream cheese, cheddar, and spices creates a savory filling that pairs perfectly with the slight heat from the jalapeños. Baking instead of frying means you can enjoy them without the extra calories and carbs that come with traditional cooking methods. Additionally, they are quick to prepare, making them ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
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)
- ½ tsp sea salt
- ½ cup almond flour (optional)
Recommended Tools
- Mixing bowl: For combining the creamy filling.
- Baking sheet: To hold the jalapeño poppers while they bake.
- Parchment paper: For easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
- Knife: For cutting and preparing the jalapeños.
- Spoon: To scoop out seeds and fill the poppers.
From Start to Finish: Baked Jalapeo Poppers (Keto)
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your poppers will bake evenly and become perfectly crispy.
Step 2: Prepare the Jalapeños
Carefully slice the jalapeños in half lengthwise, and use a spoon to remove the seeds and membranes. The more seeds you remove, the milder your poppers will be.
Step 3: Make the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, minced garlic, chopped green onions, sriracha (if using), and sea salt. If you want an extra crunch and texture, add the almond flour. Mix everything together until well combined and creamy.
Step 4: Fill the Jalapeños
Using a spoon, generously fill each jalapeño half with the cheese mixture. Don’t be shy; pile it high!
Step 5: Oil the Baking Sheet
Drizzle the avocado oil over a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper. This will help prevent the poppers from sticking and add a nice flavor.
Step 6: Bake
Place the filled jalapeños on the baking sheet, cut side up, and bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and the jalapeños are tender.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
Once done, remove the poppers from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. They are best enjoyed warm, and trust me, they’ll disappear quickly!
No-Store Runs Needed
- Avocado oil: Substitute with olive oil if you don’t have avocado oil on hand.
- Cheese: Feel free to mix and match different types of cheese based on your preferences.
- Spices: Use any spices you love to customize the flavor of the filling.
Easy-to-Miss Gotchas
Here are a few tips to ensure your Baked Jalapeo Poppers (Keto) turn out perfect:
- Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened for easy mixing.
- If you prefer a less spicy popper, opt for milder peppers like banana peppers.
- Don’t overfill the jalapeños; while a generous scoop is tempting, too much filling can spill out during baking.
How to Store & Reheat
If you have leftovers (which is rare!), store the cooled poppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, until warmed through. You can also reheat them in the microwave, but the oven will keep the texture crisper.
Baked Jalapeo Poppers (Keto) Q&A
Can I make these poppers ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the jalapeños and fill them with the cheese mixture a day in advance. Just store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake them.
What can I serve with my poppers?
These Baked Jalapeo Poppers (Keto) are fantastic on their own, but they pair well with a dipping sauce like ranch or guacamole. You could also serve them alongside dishes like Creamy Buffalo Ranch Chicken Stuffed Peppers for a full spread.
Are there variations I can try?
Yes! Feel free to experiment with different ingredients for the filling. You could add cooked bacon, diced chicken, or even switch up the cheeses for a unique flavor. Check out Creamy Cajun Steak Alfredo With Charred Peppers for another delicious twist!
Can I freeze these poppers?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked poppers. Just assemble them, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to bake them, no need to thaw; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Bring It to the Table
These Baked Jalapeo Poppers (Keto) are not just food; they are an experience that brings people together. From game nights to family gatherings, they are sure to steal the show. The combination of creamy cheese, spicy jalapeños, and the joy of sharing a delicious dish makes any occasion more special. So gather your ingredients, invite some friends over, and enjoy these delightful poppers that perfectly align with your keto lifestyle. You won’t regret it!
Baked Jalapeo Poppers (Keto)
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat Your Oven. Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your poppers will bake evenly and become perfectly crispy.
- Step 2: Prepare the Jalapeños. Carefully slice the jalapeños in half lengthwise, and use a spoon to remove the seeds and membranes. The more seeds you remove, the milder your poppers will be.
- Step 3: Make the Filling. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, minced garlic, chopped green onions, sriracha (if using), and sea salt. If you want an extra crunch and texture, add the almond flour. Mix everything together until well combined and creamy.
- Step 4: Fill the Jalapeños. Using a spoon, generously fill each jalapeño half with the cheese mixture. Don’t be shy; pile it high!
- Step 5: Oil the Baking Sheet. Drizzle the avocado oil over a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper. This will help prevent the poppers from sticking and add a nice flavor.
- Step 6: Bake. Place the filled jalapeños on the baking sheet, cut side up, and bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and the jalapeños are tender.
- Step 7: Serve and Enjoy! Once done, remove the poppers from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. They are best enjoyed warm, and trust me, they'll disappear quickly!
Notes
- Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened for easy mixing.
- If you prefer a less spicy popper, opt for milder peppers like banana peppers.
- Don’t overfill the jalapeños; too much filling can spill out during baking.
