Are you looking for a way to add some heat to your meals? Look no further than the humble jalapeno pepper! These spicy little gems can add a burst of flavor and excitement to any dish. From classic poppers and dips to innovative twists like grilled chicken and mac and cheese, we’ve got 18 delicious jalapeno recipes that are sure to satisfy your cravings.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the world of spicy foods, featuring recipes that range from simple snacks to more complex meals. Whether you’re a seasoned spice lover or just looking to add some excitement to your cooking routine, these jalapeno-packed dishes are sure to become new favorites. So go ahead, grab some jalapenos and get ready to ignite your taste buds!
Easy Jalapeno Poppers with Cream Cheese
Elevate your snack game with these creamy, spicy, and addictive jalapeno poppers filled with a tangy cream cheese mixture. Perfect for parties or a quick indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 jalapeno peppers
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Breadcrumbs or panko for coating
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut off the stems of the jalapenos and carefully scoop out the seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix together cream cheese, shredded cheddar, cilantro, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each jalapeno with the cream cheese mixture, filling to the top.
5. Dip stuffed jalapenos in beaten egg and then roll in breadcrumbs or panko for coating.
6. Place poppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Jalapeno Cornbread
This spicy twist on classic cornbread adds a kick of heat from jalapenos and a depth of flavor from cumin and chili powder. Perfect for a Tex-Mex inspired dinner or as a side dish to complement your favorite BBQ.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– 1-2 diced jalapenos (depending on desired heat level)
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, melted butter, jalapenos, cumin, and chili powder.
4. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Quick Jalapeno Cheddar Biscuits
These buttery biscuits are infused with the perfect balance of heat from jalapeños and richness from cheddar cheese. Perfect as a side dish or used to sandwich your favorite fillings.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 4 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 3/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 3/4 cup buttermilk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Cut in butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Stir in cheddar cheese and chopped jalapeño.
5. Add buttermilk and stir until dough forms.
6. Turn dough onto a floured surface and gently knead 2-3 times.
7. Roll out to 1-inch thickness and use a biscuit cutter or glass to cut out biscuits.
8. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each biscuit.
9. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Easy Jalapeno Ranch Dip
This creamy and spicy dip is perfect for any gathering or party. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a delicious snack that’s sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 1 (16 oz) container of ranch dressing
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine ranch dressing, mayonnaise, lime juice, and garlic powder. Mix until smooth.
2. Add the chopped jalapeño pepper and stir well.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Just before serving, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top (if using).
6. Serve chilled with tortilla chips, crackers, or veggies.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Jalapeno Lime Grilled Chicken
Elevate your grilled chicken game with this bold and zesty recipe that combines the brightness of lime juice with the spicy kick of jalapeños. Perfect for a summer barbecue or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2-3 jalapeño peppers, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, jalapeños, garlic, and oregano.
3. Add chicken breasts to the marinade, making sure they’re fully coated.
4. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
5. Grill chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-16 minutes
Simple Jalapeno Salsa Verde
Add a burst of fresh flavor to your tacos, grilled meats, or veggies with this easy-to-make jalapeno salsa verde. This recipe is perfect for those who like a little heat and a lot of taste.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves
– 1/2 cup fresh parsley leaves
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and chopped
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a food processor or blender, combine cilantro, parsley, jalapeño, lime juice, and garlic.
2. Process until the mixture is well combined and slightly chunky.
3. With the processor running, slowly pour in the olive oil through the top.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Jalapeno Bacon Mac and Cheese
Get ready to elevate your macaroni and cheese game with the addition of crispy bacon and spicy jalapeños! This creamy, cheesy dish is perfect for those who like a little heat in their meals.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated Monterey Jack cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped jalapeños
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped jalapeños and cook for 2 minutes.
4. Add flour and whisk until smooth. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly.
5. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
6. Stir in cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese until melted. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper.
7. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Top with crumbled bacon and additional jalapeños if desired.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Easy Jalapeno Pickled Eggs
Add a spicy kick to your snack game with these simple pickled eggs infused with jalapenos! This recipe is perfect for egg lovers and those who enjoy a little heat.
Ingredients:
– 6 large eggs, hard-boiled and peeled
– 1/2 cup (120 ml) white vinegar
– 1/4 cup (60 ml) water
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup (30 g) sliced jalapenos
– Fresh parsley or chives, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine vinegar, water, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a boil over high heat.
2. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Add sliced jalapenos to the pickling liquid and simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Place eggs in a single layer in a clean glass jar or container with a tight-fitting lid. Pour the hot pickling liquid over the eggs, making sure they are fully covered.
5. Let cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 24 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (includes cooling time)
Jalapeno Honey Glazed Salmon
Elevate your salmon game with this flavorful recipe that combines the sweetness of honey with the heat of jalapeños. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, cilantro, and jalapeños until well combined.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Place salmon fillets on the sheet.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the salmon, then brush the honey-glaze mixture evenly over each fillet.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Quick Jalapeno Avocado Toast
Get ready for a flavorful and nutritious snack that’s perfect for any time of day! This simple recipe combines the creaminess of avocado with the spicy kick of jalapenos, all on top of crispy toast.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of whole grain bread
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 1/4 cup of diced fresh jalapeno peppers
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: lemon juice, red pepper flakes, or feta cheese for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Toast the bread until lightly browned.
2. Spread the mashed avocado on top of the toast.
3. Add the diced jalapenos on top of the avocado.
4. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
5. If desired, add a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Jalapeno Cheese Stuffed Burgers
Take your burgers to the next level with these Jalapeno Cheese Stuffed Burgers! A flavorful and spicy twist on a classic favorite, this recipe combines the richness of melted cheese with the boldness of jalapeños.
Ingredients:
– 4 hamburger buns
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2-3 jalapeño peppers, seeded and finely chopped
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking oil or non-stick cooking spray
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, chopped jalapeños, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each portion into a ball. Flatten slightly into patties.
4. Place a spoonful of shredded cheese in the center of each patty. Fold the edges over to enclose the cheese.
5. Grill burgers for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked to your desired level of doneness.
6. Serve on hamburger buns with your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Easy Jalapeno Garlic Butter Shrimp
This recipe brings together the bold flavors of jalapenos, garlic, and butter to create a succulent shrimp dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying this flavorful treat in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together butter, garlic, and jalapeno until well combined.
3. Add shrimp to the bowl and toss until they’re evenly coated with the butter mixture.
4. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
5. Place the shrimp on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 8-10 minutes or until pink and cooked through.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Jalapeno Pineapple Salsa
This sweet and spicy salsa is perfect for topping tacos, grilled meats, or veggies. The combination of juicy pineapple, crunchy jalapeños, and tangy lime juice creates a flavorful condiment that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup diced fresh pineapple
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup diced jalapeño peppers (seeds removed)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine pineapple, red bell pepper, and jalapeños.
2. Stir in cilantro, lime juice, and honey until well combined.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt as needed.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This salsa is ready to use straight away.
Spicy Jalapeno Deviled Eggs
Elevate your deviled egg game with a spicy twist! These creamy treats combine the classic flavors of deviled eggs with the bold heat of jalapeños.
Ingredients:
– 6 large eggs, hard-boiled and peeled
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2-3 jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped (depending on desired level of heat)
– Optional: chives or scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cut the eggs in half lengthwise and carefully remove the yolks.
2. In a bowl, mash the yolks with a fork until smooth.
3. Add mayonnaise, mustard, cilantro, paprika, salt, and pepper to the bowl and stir until combined.
4. Stir in chopped jalapeños for an extra kick of heat.
5. Spoon the yolk mixture into the egg white halves.
6. Garnish with chives or scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (depending on preparation time)
Jalapeno Cheddar Stuffed Mushrooms
Elevate your appetizer game with this flavorful and spicy twist on classic stuffed mushrooms. A perfect blend of creamy cheese, bold jalapeños, and earthy mushrooms will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as portobello or cremini)
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 2 tablespoons softened butter
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together cheddar cheese, butter, cilantro, and jalapeño.
3. Wipe mushroom caps clean with damp cloth and fill each cap with the cheese mixture.
4. Place mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and filling is melted and golden brown.
6. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Easy Jalapeno Corn Fritters
These crispy fritters are a perfect blend of sweet corn and spicy jalapeño peppers, perfect for snacking or as a side dish. With just a few ingredients and simple preparation, you’ll be enjoying these addictive treats in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped jalapeño peppers
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, corn kernels, cheese, jalapeños, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together buttermilk and eggs. Add to dry ingredients and stir until just combined (do not overmix).
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Drop spoonfuls of batter into oil and fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
5. Drain fritters on paper towels and serve warm.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes total
Jalapeno Mango Guacamole
Elevate your snack game with this unique blend of creamy avocados, sweet mango, and spicy jalapeño peppers. Perfect for dipping chips or veggies, this Jalapeno Mango Guacamole is a flavor explosion you won’t want to miss!
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe avocados
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, use a fork to mash the avocados until mostly smooth.
2. Add the diced mango, red onion, jalapeño pepper, lime juice, salt, and black pepper to the bowl. Stir until well combined.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 5-10 minutes (mashing time)
Quick Jalapeno Pesto Pasta
Add a spicy kick to your pasta with this simple and flavorful recipe. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine)
– 1/2 cup fresh jalapenos, seeded and chopped
– 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine jalapenos, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and olive oil. Blend until smooth.
3. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking liquid before draining the pasta. Add the pesto sauce to the pasta, tossing to coat.
4. If needed, add some reserved pasta cooking liquid to achieve your desired consistency.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your meals with these 18 mouth-watering jalapeno recipes! From classic poppers filled with cream cheese to bold flavors like jalapeno bacon mac and cheese, there’s something for every taste bud. Try making spicy jalapeno cornbread or quick jalapeno cheddar biscuits for a delicious side dish. Or, take it up a notch with jalapeno lime grilled chicken or jalapeno honey glazed salmon. And don’t forget the dips and spreads – easy jalapeno ranch dip and simple jalapeno salsa verde are sure to be hits at your next gathering.
Leave a Reply