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Savory Cheddar and Sausage Stuffed Jalapeños

cheddar and sausage stuffed jalapeños - featured image

These savory cheddar and sausage stuffed jalapeños are a quick and easy snack perfect for parties, combining spicy jalapeños with creamy cheddar and browned sausage for a crowd-pleasing treat.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 medium-sized fresh jalapeños
  • 1 pound ground sausage (mild or spicy)
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (about 115 g)
  • 4 ounces softened cream cheese (about 115 g)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.
  2. Slice each jalapeño in half lengthwise. Use a spoon or small knife to carefully scoop out the seeds and membranes. Set aside.
  3. Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
  4. In a bowl, combine the cooked sausage, shredded cheddar cheese, softened cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until evenly mixed and creamy. If the mixture feels dry, add a teaspoon of olive oil or a splash of milk.
  5. Using a spoon, fill each jalapeño half with the sausage and cheddar mixture. Pack gently but do not overfill.
  6. Arrange the stuffed jalapeños on the baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil or brush lightly to help with roasting.
  7. Bake for 15-18 minutes, until the jalapeños are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden on top.
  8. Let the stuffed jalapeños cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

For extra crispy tops, broil for the last 2 minutes but watch closely to prevent burning. Wear gloves when handling jalapeños to avoid skin irritation. Soften cream cheese at room temperature for better mixing. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option or use vegan cheese and meat alternatives for dairy-free or vegetarian versions.

Nutrition

Keywords: jalapeños, stuffed jalapeños, cheddar cheese, sausage, snack, party food, spicy, easy recipe