Stuffed Jalapenos from Pappasito's Cantina feature spicy jalapeno peppers filled with a creamy blend of cheese, seasoned ground meat, and fresh herbs, all baked to golden perfection and topped with a drizzle of tangy salsa, delivering a harmonious mix of heat, creaminess, and zest.
Equipments
- Cutting board
- Paring knife
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon
- Skillet
- Spatula
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper (optional)
- Cheese grater
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Oven
Ingredients
- 10-12 fresh jalapeno peppers
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/2 lb (225g) ground beef
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup salsa (for drizzling)
Fresh jalapeno peppers are key for authentic heat and texture, so choose firm, bright green peppers without blemishes or soft spots. Use full-fat cream cheese and freshly shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses to achieve the ideal creamy, melty filling consistency. Season the ground beef thoroughly with chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to mirror the complex flavors found in the original dish. Finely chopping fresh cilantro and green onions adds essential freshness that balances the richness of the cheese and meat. Your Stuffed Jalapenos from Pappasito's Cantina copycat menu will deliver the perfect harmony of spice, creaminess, and zest with these carefully selected ingredients.
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Line baking sheet with parchment paper (optional).
- Wash and dry jalapenos.
- Slice jalapenos in half lengthwise; remove seeds and membranes.
- Place jalapeno halves on the prepared baking sheet.
- In skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned; drain excess fat.
- Add chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper to the beef; mix well, cook 1-2 more minutes, then remove from heat.
- In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, cilantro, and green onions.
- Add the seasoned beef to the cheese mixture; mix until well combined.
- Use a spoon to fill each jalapeno half with cheese-beef mixture.
- Arrange stuffed jalapenos on baking sheet.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until jalapenos are tender and tops are golden.
- Remove from oven.
- Drizzle with salsa before serving.
Substitution
Stuffed Jalapenos from Pappasito's Cantina copycat menu use fresh jalapeno peppers filled with a creamy cheese mixture and seasoned ground beef. If fresh jalapenos are too spicy or unavailable, you can substitute with mini sweet peppers or poblano peppers for a milder flavor. Ground turkey or chicken can replace beef to create a lighter version without compromising the protein content. Using pre-shredded cheese can save time, but freshly grated cheese melts better and enhances texture. Your salsa drizzle can be customized with a smoky chipotle or tangy tomatillo salsa to adjust heat and flavor profiles.
Tips
When preparing the jalapenos, removing all seeds and membranes is essential to control the spice level and avoid overwhelming heat. Ensure the ground beef is cooked thoroughly and drained well to prevent excess grease from making the filling soggy. Mixing the cream cheese and shredded cheeses while warm helps achieve a smoother filling texture that will melt evenly. When baking, placing the jalapenos on parchment paper can prevent sticking and make cleanup easier, and you should watch closely toward the end of baking to avoid burning the cheese tops.
Nutritions
Stuffed Jalapenos from Pappasito's Cantina offer a balanced source of protein and fats from ground beef and a blend of cream cheese, cheddar, and Monterey Jack cheeses. Jalapeno peppers contribute vitamin C, capsaicin, and fiber, supporting metabolism and digestion. Spices like chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika add antioxidants and enhance flavor without extra calories. Enjoy this spicy, creamy dish while keeping portion sizes in mind to maintain a nutritious intake aligned with your dietary goals.
Storage
Store your leftover stuffed jalapenos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain their creamy texture and flavors. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag, keeping them fresh for up to 2 months. Reheat thoroughly in an oven or air fryer to preserve the crispy, golden topping and melty cheese consistency.
Variation or Alternatives
For a vegetarian alternative, swap ground beef with cooked quinoa or black beans seasoned with the same spices for a hearty, protein-rich filling. You could also experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack or smoked gouda to add a spicy or smoky dimension to the creamy mixture. Roasting the jalapenos briefly before stuffing can enhance their natural sweetness and reduce some heat, making them more approachable if you're sensitive to spice. When assembling, you might use a piping bag instead of a spoon for a neater presentation and more even filling distribution.
Allergies
Stuffed Jalapenos from Pappasito's Cantina contain dairy products like cream cheese, cheddar, and Monterey Jack cheese, which may cause allergic reactions for individuals with milk allergies or lactose intolerance. The ground beef filling could pose a risk for those with red meat allergies or sensitivities. If You have allergies to ingredients such as jalapenos, cilantro, or spices like chili powder, garlic, and onion, it's best to avoid this dish or consult with the restaurant before consuming.
Why this recipe?
Stuffed Jalapenos from Pappasito's Cantina feature a perfect balance of spicy heat and creamy cheese filling that excites taste buds. The combination of fresh jalapenos, seasoned meat or sausage, and melted cheese creates a savory explosion of flavors rich in texture and complexity. You'll appreciate the crispy, smoky exterior paired with the tantalizingly smooth interior, making it a standout appetizer. Trying to make the copycat recipe at home offers a satisfying culinary challenge that replicates the authentic Tex-Mex experience beloved by many.