Description

Fresno Poppers are spicy, cheesy, and crispy appetizers made with Fresno chili peppers stuffed with a savory cream cheese mixture and baked or fried to perfection.

Ingredients

Units Scale

12 Fresno chili peppers
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup chopped green onions
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 eggs, beaten
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
Oil for frying (if frying)

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) or heat oil in a deep fryer to 350°F (175°C) if frying.
Slice Fresno peppers in half lengthwise and remove seeds and membranes.
In a bowl, mix cream cheese, cheddar cheese, green onions, garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Fill each pepper half with the cheese mixture.
Set up a breading station with flour, beaten eggs, and panko breadcrumbs in separate bowls.
Dredge each filled pepper in flour, dip in egg, then coat in breadcrumbs.
For baking, place poppers on a baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes or until golden and bubbly. For frying, fry poppers for 2-3 minutes until golden brown, then drain on paper towels.
Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

Use gloves when handling peppers to avoid irritation.
Can be made ahead and frozen before baking or frying.
Substitute Fresno peppers with jalapeños for more heat.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 2 poppers
Calories: 160
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 220mg
Fat: 11g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 4g
Cholesterol: 30mg