Ingredients:

  • 12 medium jalapeno peppers
  • 5ml (1 tsp) olive oil
  • 225g Philadelphia cream cheese
  • 120g sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
  • 2.5ml (1/2 tsp) garlic powder
  • 2.5ml (1/2 tsp) onion powder
  • 1.25ml (1/4 tsp) smoked paprika
  • 2 strips cooked bacon, finely minced
  • 120ml (1/2 cup) panko breadcrumbs
  • 15ml (1 tbsp) melted butter
  • 15ml (1 tbsp) fresh chives, minced

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
  2. Slice the jalapenos in half lengthwise. Use a small spoon to scrape out all seeds and white membranes. Rub the exterior of the peppers with 5ml of olive oil.
  3. In a small mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and minced bacon. Stir until the mixture is uniform.
  4. In a separate small bowl, toss the panko breadcrumbs with melted butter until the crumbs are evenly coated.
  5. Spoon the cheese filling into each jalapeno half, leveling it with the edges of the pepper.
  6. Press the buttery panko mixture onto the top of the cheese filling on each popper.
  7. Arrange the poppers on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the panko topping is golden brown.