Sausage Stuffed Jalapeños are a perfect blend of spicy, savory, and cheesy flavors, making them a hit at any party or gathering. Fresh jalapeño halves are filled with a rich mixture of browned sausage, softened cream cheese, and Parmesan cheese, then baked until golden and bubbly. The creamy filling balances out the heat from the jalapeños, while the sausage adds a savory depth of flavor. Serve these tasty bites with a side of ranch dressing for dipping, and watch them disappear from the platter in no time!
Sausage Stuffed Jalapeños are a spicy, savory, and cheesy appetizer that brings bold flavors to the table. With fresh jalapeños stuffed with a rich sausage and cream cheese filling, these poppers are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a party, game day, or just a fun snack. The combination of spicy peppers, creamy cheese, and savory sausage makes them a favorite crowd-pleaser.
Let’s take a closer look at the ingredients that make these Sausage Stuffed Jalapeños so irresistible.
INGREDIENTS
- Ground Beef Sausage: The hearty base of the filling, adding a rich, savory flavor to balance out the spice of the jalapeños.
- Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese gives the filling its creamy texture and smoothness, helping to mellow the heat from the jalapeños.
- Shredded Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan adds a salty, nutty flavor to the filling, creating a cheesy, flavorful bite with every popper.
- Jalapeño Peppers: Large, fresh jalapeños serve as the vessel for the filling, bringing the signature spicy kick that makes these poppers stand out.
- Ranch Dressing (optional): A cool, creamy dip like ranch dressing is the perfect complement to these spicy stuffed jalapeños, adding a tangy contrast to the rich filling.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Prepare your baking dish by lightly greasing it or lining it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Step 2:
- Place the ground beef sausage in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s evenly browned. Once fully cooked, drain any excess grease and remove the skillet from the heat.
- Step 3:
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked sausage, softened cream cheese, and shredded Parmesan cheese. Mix everything together until the filling is well combined and creamy.
- Step 4:
- Slice each jalapeño in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes to reduce the heat. Be careful when handling jalapeños to avoid irritation—wear gloves if needed. Set the prepared jalapeño halves aside.
- Step 5:
- Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the sausage mixture into each jalapeño half, filling them generously. Place the stuffed jalapeños in the prepared baking dish, cut side up, ensuring they are evenly spaced.
- Step 6:
- Bake the stuffed jalapeños in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the tops are bubbly and lightly browned.
- Step 7:
- Remove the jalapeños from the oven and allow them to cool slightly. Serve them warm, with ranch dressing on the side if desired.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serving: Sausage Stuffed Jalapeños are best served warm, right out of the oven. They’re perfect for parties, game day, or any time you want a flavorful, spicy appetizer. Pair them with ranch dressing or sour cream to balance out the heat and add a creamy contrast.
- Storage: Store any leftover stuffed jalapeños in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
- Freezing: You can freeze Sausage Stuffed Jalapeños before baking. Arrange the stuffed peppers on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to bake, cook them straight from frozen, adding an additional 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
Helpful Notes
- Adjusting the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder version, be sure to remove all the seeds and membranes from the jalapeños, or substitute mini sweet peppers for a no-heat option.
- Mixing Up the Cheese: While Parmesan adds a rich, salty flavor, you can experiment with other cheeses like sharp cheddar or Monterey Jack for a different taste.
- Make-Ahead Tip: You can prepare the sausage filling and stuff the jalapeños ahead of time. Store the stuffed jalapeños in the fridge until you’re ready to bake them, making party prep much easier!
Tips from well-known chefs
- Chef Lila recommends adding cooked, crumbled bacon to the sausage filling for an extra layer of smoky flavor.
- Chef Marcus suggests sprinkling a bit of paprika or cayenne on top before baking to add color and a touch of extra spice.
- Chef Mia advises serving the stuffed jalapeños with a squeeze of lime juice on top for a fresh, tangy finish that complements the rich flavors.