Fresno Poppers

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Fresno Poppers are a bold, flavorful appetizer made with vibrant red Fresno chili peppers stuffed with a creamy, cheesy filling and either baked or fried to perfection. They deliver a satisfying kick of heat balanced by rich, savory ingredients, making them perfect for parties, game days, or anytime you want a spicy snack. Their bright color and smoky-sweet flavor offer a unique twist on traditional jalapeño poppers.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Fresno chili pepperscream cheesecheddar cheesegarlic powderonion powdersaltblack pepperbacon strips or panko breadcrumbs (optional for topping)olive oil (for baking or brushing)

directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Wash the Fresno peppers and slice them lengthwise. Remove seeds and membranes for a milder heat.

In a bowl, mix cream cheese, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth.

Spoon the cheese mixture into each pepper half, packing it evenly.

For extra flavor, wrap each stuffed pepper with bacon or sprinkle with panko breadcrumbs.

Arrange the filled peppers on the prepared baking sheet and lightly brush or spray with olive oil.

Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the tops are golden and bubbly.

Allow to cool slightly before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes approximately 12 poppers.Preparation time: 15 minutesBaking time: 20 minutesCooling time: 5 minutesTotal time: 40 minutes

Variations

Add cooked crumbled sausage or chorizo to the filling for extra heartiness.

Use pepper jack cheese for an extra spicy kick.

Swap bacon for turkey bacon or omit for a vegetarian version.

Top with crushed tortilla chips for a crunchy finish.

Add chopped green onions or herbs to the cheese mixture for freshness.

storage/reheating

Store leftover Fresno Poppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.To reheat, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving to maintain crispiness.

FAQs

What do Fresno peppers taste like?

They have a bright, slightly sweet flavor with medium heat—less intense than a jalapeño but spicier than a bell pepper.

Can I use other peppers?

Yes, jalapeños, mini bell peppers, or banana peppers work well depending on your heat preference.

Are these very spicy?

Fresno peppers offer moderate heat. Removing the seeds and membranes reduces the spice level.

Can I make them ahead?

Yes, you can prep them a day in advance and bake when ready to serve.

Do I have to use bacon?

No, the recipe works just as well without bacon. Panko breadcrumbs make a great crunchy alternative.

Can I fry them instead of baking?

Yes, you can bread and deep-fry them for an extra crispy version.

Are Fresno Poppers keto-friendly?

Yes, if you skip the breadcrumbs, they are low-carb and keto-friendly.

Can I freeze them?

Yes, freeze unbaked poppers on a tray, then transfer to a bag. Bake from frozen, adding 5–7 minutes to the cook time.

What dips go well with these?

Ranch dressing, sour cream, or a creamy cilantro-lime sauce pair beautifully.

Can I grill them?

Absolutely—grill over medium heat until the peppers are tender and the filling is hot and bubbly.

Conclusion

Fresno Poppers are a spicy, satisfying appetizer that brings vibrant flavor and a bit of heat to your table. Whether you’re baking, grilling, or frying them, they’re always a hit with guests and a fun way to elevate your snack game. Try them once, and they’ll quickly become a go-to crowd-pleaser.

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