Fresno Poppers

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Fresno Poppers are a bold and flavorful appetizer made with vibrant red Fresno chili peppers stuffed with creamy cheese and herbs, then baked or grilled to perfection. Milder and slightly sweeter than jalapeños, Fresnos bring just the right amount of heat. These poppers are perfect for parties, game day snacks, or whenever you want a spicy, cheesy treat with a bit of flair.

ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Fresno chili pepperscream cheese (softened)shredded cheddar or pepper jack cheesegarlic powderonion powdersaltblack pepperchopped fresh chives or green onionsolive oiloptional: breadcrumbs, cooked bacon bits, plant-based cheese for vegan version

directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) or heat a grill to medium.

Wash the Fresno peppers and slice them lengthwise. Remove the seeds and membranes with a spoon for a milder bite.

In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, chopped chives, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended.

Spoon the filling into each pepper half, pressing slightly to fill evenly.

Optional: top with breadcrumbs or bacon bits for added crunch and flavor.

Place the stuffed peppers on a lined baking sheet or grill-safe tray. Drizzle lightly with olive oil.

Bake for 15-18 minutes, or grill with the lid closed for about 10-12 minutes, until the peppers are tender and the cheese is bubbly.

Let cool slightly before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 20 poppers (10 peppers halved).Preparation time: 15 minutesCooking time: 15-18 minutesTotal time: 30-35 minutes

Variations

Use goat cheese or ricotta for a tangy filling.

Add finely chopped cooked mushrooms or spinach for extra veggies.

Use dairy-free cream cheese and vegan shredded cheese for a plant-based version.

Swap in jalapeños or mini bell peppers if Fresno peppers aren’t available.

Try a Mexican blend cheese for a spicy twist.

storage/reheating

Store leftover poppers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes until warmed through.Avoid microwaving if possible to maintain texture.Not recommended for freezing.

FAQs

Are Fresno peppers very spicy?

They have a medium heat level—hotter than bell peppers but milder than jalapeños.

Can I make them ahead of time?

Yes, stuff the peppers and store them in the fridge up to a day ahead. Bake when ready to serve.

What’s a good dipping sauce?

Ranch, sour cream, chipotle mayo, or avocado crema pair perfectly.

Can I air-fry these?

Yes, air fry at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes until golden and bubbly.

How do I keep the filling from oozing out?

Don’t overfill and press the filling into the peppers firmly. Let them cool slightly before serving.

What if I don’t eat dairy?

Use vegan cheese and plant-based cream cheese for a delicious alternative.

Can I use a different pepper?

Yes, jalapeños or sweet mini peppers work well if you want more or less heat.

Do I need to remove all the seeds?

Removing seeds and membranes helps control the spice level and improves texture.

Can I add meat?

Absolutely—mix in cooked sausage, bacon, or shredded chicken for a heartier filling.

Are these kid-friendly?

If your kids can handle mild spice, they’ll love them—mini bell peppers are a good substitute for less heat.

Conclusion

Fresno Poppers are the ultimate mix of creamy, spicy, and savory in every bite. Whether baked, grilled, or air-fried, they’re a crowd-pleasing snack that’s easy to customize and even easier to love. Whip up a batch for your next gathering, and watch them disappear in minutes.

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