Crumbed Cream Cheese Jalapeño Poppers
Bring the heat with these crispy, cheesy bites of perfection! Each jalapeño is stuffed with creamy, melty cheese, then coated in a golden ZeroKrumbs crust for that ultimate crunch. Whether you air fry or pan fry, they deliver serious flavour and a fiery kick that’s hard to stop at one. Perfect for braai tables, game-day snacks, or when you just want something bold and satisfying.
Crumbed Jalapeño Poppers
Ingredients:
6 large fresh jalapeños
200g cream cheese, softened
½ cup grated mozzarella or cheddar (optional but adds stretch)
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
Pinch of salt
½ cup ZeroKrumbs
1 egg, whisked
Optional: 6 slices streaky bacon (for wrapping version)
Method:
- Prep the Jalapeños:
Slice each jalapeño lengthwise and remove the seeds (leave a few if you like it hot). - Make the Filling:
In a bowl, mix cream cheese, grated cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt. - Stuff:
Fill each jalapeño half with the cream cheese mixture and press the halves together again. - Coat:
In one bowl, whisk the egg. Place ZeroKrumbs in another bowl.
Dip each jalapeño in the egg mixture, then roll in ZeroKrumbs until well coated.
(Optional: wrap each popper with a slice of bacon and secure with a toothpick before coating.) - Cooking Options:
- Air Fryer: 190°C for 8–10 minutes until golden and crisp.
- Pan Fry: Heat tallow in a pan and fry over medium heat until golden on all sides, 2–3 minutes per side. Drain on a paper towel.
Serving Ideas:
Serve these fiery poppers fresh off the grill alongside a cool dipping sauce — sour cream, garlic mayo, or a creamy tallow dip. They’re the ultimate braai-side snack and pair perfectly with steak, ribs, or even your next ZeroKrumb burger night.