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Healthy Baked Jalapeño Poppers
Servings: 16 halves (about 8 peppers)
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15–20 minutes
Total Time: 25–30 minutes
Ingredients
8 medium jalapeño peppers, halved lengthwise and seeds removed
2 oz cream cheese, softened
1 oz smoked gouda, shredded
1 oz cheddar cheese, shredded
1 oz Parmesan cheese, shredded
¼ medium onion, finely diced
1–2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon sour cream
A small amount of reserved jalapeño pith (for extra heat, optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Slice jalapeños in half lengthwise and scoop out seeds. Leave a bit of pith if you like extra heat.
In a bowl, combine cream cheese, gouda, cheddar, Parmesan, onion, garlic, sour cream, and seasonings. Mix until smooth.
Spoon the cheese mixture into each jalapeño half, filling evenly.
Arrange on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake for 15–20 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
Cool for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm!
Storage Tip:
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to heat them again.
Nutritional Information:
Per Serving (4 halves)
Calories: ~185
Protein: 9 g
Total Fat: 14 g
Saturated Fat: 8 g
Carbohydrates: 5 g
Dietary Fiber: 1 g
Sugars: 2 g
Cholesterol: 45 mg
Sodium: 310 mg
Calcium: ~20% DV
Vitamin C: ~30% DV
Per Popper Half
Calories: ~46
Protein: 2.3 g
Fat: 3.5 g
Carbs: 1.2 g
Fiber: 0.25 g
Vitamin C: ~7% DV
Nutritional Highlights
Lower fat and fewer calories than fried poppers (often 250–300 cal per 2 pieces).
Rich in calcium and vitamin C — good for bone and immune health.
Capsaicin in jalapeños supports circulation and may help regulate blood sugar.
Moderate fat helps improve satiety while keeping portions satisfying.
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