Stuffed Jalapenos with Feta
Highlighted under: Exotic Recipes Made Easy
I love making Stuffed Jalapenos with Feta for gatherings because they are a crowd-pleaser and pack a flavorful punch. The heat from the jalapenos, combined with the creamy, tangy feta, creates a delightful taste experience that keeps everyone coming back for more. Plus, the preparation is quick and simple, making it an ideal appetizer for busy evenings. Whether served as a snack or as part of a larger meal, these stuffed jalapenos always bring smiles and satisfaction to the table.
When I first experimented with Stuffed Jalapenos, I wanted to find a balance between spicy and creamy. The addition of feta cheese brought a wonderful tanginess that perfectly complemented the heat of the peppers. I found that mixing herbs like parsley and mint into the filling elevated the dish further, creating a refreshing twist that surprised my guests.
One of my best tips for making these jalapenos is to bake them until just golden. This ensures the feta gets soft and melty without losing its distinctive flavor. I suggest serving them hot right out of the oven for the ultimate taste experience.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Spicy jalapenos filled with creamy feta cheese
- Quick and easy to prepare for any occasion
- A crowd-pleaser that pairs well with drinks
Mastering the Filling
The filling for your stuffed jalapenos is crucial for achieving the right flavor balance. Feta cheese provides a creamy texture and a tangy taste that cuts through the heat of the jalapenos. When mixing in cream cheese, ensure it is softened to room temperature for easy blending. This creamy combination helps to hold the filling together while also keeping it moist during baking.
Herbs like parsley and mint not only add freshness but also enhance the overall flavor profile. Fresh parsley contributes a mild earthiness while mint gives a subtle sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the jalapeno's heat. If you don’t have fresh herbs, dried options can be used, but cut the amounts in half since dried herbs are more concentrated.
Baking to Perfection
Baking your stuffed jalapenos at 375°F (190°C) ensures that they cook evenly without burning. This temperature allows the jalapeno flesh to tenderize while giving the cheese topping a chance to get bubbly and golden. Keep an eye on them after the first 10 minutes; look for a light browning on the filling and a slight softness in the sides of the jalapenos.
If you want a bit more crunch, consider broiling the jalapenos for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. This will caramelize some of the filling and add a delectable textural contrast to the soft jalapenos. Just be sure to watch them closely to prevent burning, as broiling can happen quickly!
Ingredients
Stuffed Jalapenos Ingredients
- 10 large jalapenos
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh mint, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for drizzling
Prepare your jalapenos for stuffing by slicing them in half and removing the seeds if you prefer less heat.
Preparation Steps
Prepare the Jalapenos
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the jalapenos in half lengthwise and carefully remove the seeds. Arrange them on a baking sheet.
Make the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the feta cheese, cream cheese, parsley, mint, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and well combined.
Stuff the Jalapenos
Spoon the filling generously into each jalapeno half, pressing down slightly to pack it in.
Bake the Jalapenos
Drizzle the stuffed jalapenos with olive oil and bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until the jalapenos are tender and the filling is slightly golden.
Serve
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm for the best flavor!
Garnish with additional herbs if desired before serving for a pop of color.
Pro Tips
- For extra flavor, try adding cooked bacon bits to the cheese filling. You can also experiment with different cheeses, such as goat cheese or cheddar, to create your unique version.
Make-Ahead and Storage
These stuffed jalapenos can be prepared in advance, making them an excellent option for busy evenings or gatherings. After you’ve filled the jalapenos, cover them tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, simply pop them in the oven without needing to thaw. You may need to add an extra 5 minutes to your baking time if they're coming straight from the fridge.
If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, approximately 10–15 minutes. This maintains the jalapeno's texture and flavor better than using a microwave.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
Stuffed jalapenos make a fantastic appetizer or snack but can also be served as part of a larger Mexican-themed meal. Pair them with salsa or a cooling yogurt dip to enhance the flavor. A splash of lime juice over the top just before serving can brighten the dish and balance the richness of the cheese.
For a twist on the traditional filling, consider adding other ingredients like cooked sausage, shredded chicken, or black beans to the cheese mixture. Adjust the spices accordingly to balance the flavors. If you’re looking for a milder version, try using mini sweet peppers instead of jalapenos; they’re sweet and provide a beautiful pop of color!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make these jalapenos ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed jalapenos and refrigerate them before baking. Just bake them just before serving.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover stuffed jalapenos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
→ Can I freeze stuffed jalapenos?
Absolutely! You can freeze the stuffed jalapenos before baking. Just thaw and bake them when you're ready to enjoy.
→ What can I serve with stuffed jalapenos?
They pair wonderfully with a variety of dips like sour cream, guacamole, or even a spicy salsa.
Stuffed Jalapenos with Feta
I love making Stuffed Jalapenos with Feta for gatherings because they are a crowd-pleaser and pack a flavorful punch. The heat from the jalapenos, combined with the creamy, tangy feta, creates a delightful taste experience that keeps everyone coming back for more. Plus, the preparation is quick and simple, making it an ideal appetizer for busy evenings. Whether served as a snack or as part of a larger meal, these stuffed jalapenos always bring smiles and satisfaction to the table.
What You'll Need
Stuffed Jalapenos Ingredients
- 10 large jalapenos
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh mint, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for drizzling
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the jalapenos in half lengthwise and carefully remove the seeds. Arrange them on a baking sheet.
In a mixing bowl, combine the feta cheese, cream cheese, parsley, mint, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and well combined.
Spoon the filling generously into each jalapeno half, pressing down slightly to pack it in.
Drizzle the stuffed jalapenos with olive oil and bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until the jalapenos are tender and the filling is slightly golden.
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm for the best flavor!
Extra Tips
- For extra flavor, try adding cooked bacon bits to the cheese filling. You can also experiment with different cheeses, such as goat cheese or cheddar, to create your unique version.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 240 kcal
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
- Sodium: 520mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 6g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 9g