Stuffed Jalapenos
Stuffed jalapenos bursting with a savory chicken or crab filling, perfectly seasoned and baked to a delightful spicy bite, ideal for appetizers or party snacks.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute chopped onions and chopped celery in butter until tender.
- Add drained chicken or crab and stir to break into smaller pieces.
- Add 1 cup of Italian bread crumbs and stir until mixture is moist.
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Mix in 2 eggs and stir well.
- Add 1/2 cup bread crumbs gradually until mixture begins to stick together and form a ball.
- Adjust with additional bread crumbs if mixture is too gooey, aiming for a dry consistency.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Pack the mixture into each jalapeno, overstuffing slightly.
- Arrange stuffed jalapenos on a baking sheet and bake until heated through and slightly browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some shredded cheese or spices like cumin and paprika into the filling. If you want a milder version, use mini sweet peppers instead of jalapenos. You can also experiment with different proteins, such as ground turkey or tofu, to suit your dietary preferences. For a fun twist, add a bit of cream cheese for creaminess.
Serving Suggestions
These stuffed jalapenos are perfect as a party appetizer or game-day snack. Serve them alongside a refreshing dip such as guacamole or sour cream. They also pair beautifully with Mexican recipes like Cheese Enchilada Casserole or Spicy Rice for a complete meal. Garnish with fresh cilantro or lime wedges for an extra burst of flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover stuffed jalapenos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also heat them in the microwave, but they may lose some crispness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Stuffed Jalapenos contains roughly 82 calories, with 1g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 4g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make stuffed jalapenos ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed jalapenos a day in advance. Just assemble them, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate until you're ready to bake. This allows the flavors to meld together, making for a tastier dish when baked.
What can I substitute for the chicken or crab?
You can easily substitute canned tuna, cooked ground beef, or even a plant-based protein like lentils or chickpeas for a vegetarian version. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning to complement the new protein choice.
How spicy are these jalapenos?
The heat level can vary based on the jalapenos you choose. If you're concerned about spiciness, opt for milder jalapenos or remove the seeds and membranes before stuffing to reduce the heat. Alternatively, serve with a cooling dip to balance the flavors.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).