Description
Fresno Poppers are a spicy and flavorful appetizer made by stuffing Fresno chili peppers with a creamy, cheesy filling and baking or grilling them to perfection. They’re a colorful and slightly milder twist on traditional jalapeño poppers.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 12 Fresno chili peppers
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon chopped chives or green onions
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: cooked and crumbled bacon or plant-based bacon bits
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) or heat grill to medium-high.
- Slice the Fresno peppers lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes.
- In a bowl, mix cream cheese, cheddar cheese, Parmesan, garlic, chives, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined. Stir in bacon if using.
- Spoon the cheese mixture into each pepper half, filling generously.
- Place the stuffed peppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment or directly on the grill.
- Bake for 15–18 minutes or grill for 8–10 minutes until the peppers are tender and the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
- Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm.
Notes
- Wear gloves when handling peppers to avoid irritation.
- Use dairy-free cheese and cream cheese for a vegan version.
- These can be prepped ahead and baked just before serving.
- Great as a party snack or appetizer.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 poppers
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 25mg