Sausage Stuffed Jalapeños are a delicious and spicy treat that brings bold flavors to any gathering. These bite-sized snacks are perfect for parties, game days, or just a cozy evening at home. With a savory filling made from ground sausage, cream cheese, and cheddar, these stuffed jalapeños are sure to impress your friends and family.
Why Make This Recipe
Making Sausage Stuffed Jalapeños is easy and rewarding. They are quick to prepare, requiring only a few ingredients that you may already have in your kitchen. This recipe is great for those who love a little heat but also enjoy creamy and cheesy flavors. Plus, they can be served as appetizers or snacks, making them a versatile dish for any occasion.
How to Make Sausage Stuffed Jalapeños
Ingredients
- 10 large jalapeños
- 1 pound ground sausage
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional)
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice the jalapeños in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes.
- In a skillet, cook the ground sausage over medium heat until browned and cooked through.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked sausage, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and green onions (if using).
- Stuff each jalapeño half with the sausage mixture.
- Place the stuffed jalapeños on a baking sheet and sprinkle with breadcrumbs if desired.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the jalapeños are tender and the tops are golden brown.
- Serve warm as an appetizer.
How to Serve Sausage Stuffed Jalapeños
Sausage Stuffed Jalapeños can be served hot out of the oven. Place them on a platter and enjoy them as finger food. They pair well with dipping sauces like ranch or sour cream if you want to add even more flavor. These tasty bites are perfect alongside your favorite drinks or as part of a larger spread at your next gathering.
How to Store Sausage Stuffed Jalapeños
If you have leftovers, you can store the Sausage Stuffed Jalapeños in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
Tips to Make Sausage Stuffed Jalapeños
- Choose jalapeños that are firm and bright in color for the best flavor.
- If you want more heat, leave some seeds inside the jalapeños when you remove them.
- Experiment with different cheese types, such as pepper jack, for a spicier kick.
Variation
You can customize this recipe in many ways. Try adding cooked bacon bits to the filling for an extra smoky flavor. You could also substitute the ground sausage for ground beef or turkey if you prefer a different meat.
FAQs
1. Can I make these in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed jalapeños ahead of time and refrigerate them until you are ready to bake.
2. Are these spicy?
Yes, they have some spice due to the jalapeños. If you’re sensitive to heat, consider using milder peppers, like mini sweet peppers.
3. Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! You can freeze the stuffed jalapeños before baking. Just thaw and bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
