Golden jalapeños filled with creamy cheese, breaded and fried until crispy, paired with a cool ranch dip.
# Ingredient List:
→ Jalapeños
01 - 8 large fresh jalapeño peppers
→ Cheese Filling
02 - 4 oz cream cheese, softened
03 - 2 oz shredded cheddar cheese
04 - 1 small garlic clove, minced (optional)
05 - 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
06 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
→ Breading
07 - 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
08 - 2 large eggs
09 - 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
10 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
11 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
→ For Frying
12 - Vegetable oil, for deep frying
→ Ranch Dip
13 - 1/2 cup prepared ranch dressing
# How-To Steps:
01 - Slice each jalapeño in half lengthwise and carefully remove seeds and membranes, wearing gloves for protection.
02 - Combine cream cheese, shredded cheddar, minced garlic, smoked paprika, and salt in a bowl until smooth.
03 - Fill each jalapeño half with the cheese mixture, pressing gently to evenly fill each cavity.
04 - Place flour in one shallow bowl, beat eggs in a second bowl, and mix breadcrumbs with salt and black pepper in a third bowl.
05 - Roll each stuffed jalapeño in flour, dip into beaten eggs, then coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to adhere.
06 - Heat vegetable oil to 350°F in a deep saucepan and fry jalapeño poppers in batches for 2 to 3 minutes per side until crisp and golden. Drain on paper towels.
07 - Serve warm accompanied by ranch dressing on the side.
