Fresno Poppers

Fresno Poppers are a delightful appetizer that combines the sweet heat of Fresno chili peppers with a creamy, cheesy filling, all baked to perfection. This dish offers a harmonious blend of flavors and textures, making it a standout choice for any gathering.​Meatless Makeovers+1SaltSpring Kitchen Co.+1

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect Balance of Flavors: The natural sweetness of Fresno peppers pairs beautifully with the rich, tangy cream cheese filling.​BBQ PETE.COM+4Meatless Makeovers+4SaltSpring Kitchen Co.+4
• Ideal for Gatherings: These poppers are bite-sized and easy to serve, making them a hit at parties and family events.​12 Tomatoes
• Healthier Option: Baked instead of fried, these poppers offer a lighter alternative without compromising on taste.​

Ingredients

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

• Fresno chili peppers​Meatless Makeovers+1BBQ PETE.COM+1
• Cream cheese​Log in or sign up to view+812 Tomatoes+8Allrecipes+8
• Sour cream​12 Tomatoes
• Apricot preserves​12 Tomatoes+1Allrecipes+1
• Pickled jalapeños​Allrecipes+412 Tomatoes+4SaltSpring Kitchen Co.+4
• Tortilla chips​WBD

Directions

1. Prepare the Peppers: Slice the Fresno peppers in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes.​SaltSpring Kitchen Co.+1WBD+1
2. Make the Filling: In a bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sour cream, apricot preserves, and chopped pickled jalapeños until smooth.​12 Tomatoes
3. Stuff the Peppers: Spoon the cream cheese mixture into each pepper half, filling them generously.​
4. Bake: Place the stuffed peppers on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven until the peppers are tender and the filling is bubbly.​
5. Serve: Allow the poppers to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm for the best flavor experience.​

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Approximately 8-10 servings​
• Prep Time: 10 minutes​Allrecipes+2Meatless Makeovers+2Allrecipes+2
• Cook Time: 15 minutes​BBQ PETE.COM+3Allrecipes+3Allrecipes+3
• Total Time: 25 minutes​

Variations

• Cheese Options: Experiment with different cheeses like sharp cheddar or Monterey Jack for varied flavors.​
• Add Protein: Incorporate cooked, crumbled bacon or sausage into the filling for a heartier appetizer.​
• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of pickled jalapeños to control the heat, or substitute with milder peppers if preferred.​12 Tomatoes+1SaltSpring Kitchen Co.+1

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover poppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.​Meatless Makeovers+1Allrecipes+1
• Reheating: To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the peppers soggy.​

FAQs

What are Fresno peppers?

Fresno peppers are medium-sized chili peppers that resemble jalapeños but have a slightly sweeter and fruitier flavor. They can range from mild to moderately spicy.​

Can I use a different type of pepper?

Yes, if Fresno peppers are unavailable, you can substitute with jalapeños for a spicier kick or mini bell peppers for a milder version.​

Is there a dairy-free alternative for the filling?

Absolutely! Use dairy-free cream cheese and sour cream alternatives to make this recipe suitable for those avoiding dairy.​

Can these poppers be made ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the stuffed peppers a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Bake them just before serving for the best results.​

How can I make the poppers less spicy?

To reduce the heat, ensure all seeds and membranes are removed from the peppers, and consider using fewer pickled jalapeños in the filling.​

Are these poppers gluten-free?

The basic recipe is gluten-free, but always check the labels of your ingredients to ensure they don’t contain hidden gluten, especially the apricot preserves and pickled jalapeños.​12 Tomatoes

Can I grill these poppers instead of baking?

Yes, grilling adds a smoky flavor. Place the stuffed peppers on a grill over medium heat and cook until the peppers are tender and the filling is heated through.​

What dipping sauces pair well with Fresno poppers?

These poppers pair well with ranch dressing, blue cheese dip, or a simple sour cream and chive sauce.​

Can I freeze the poppers?

It’s not recommended to freeze these poppers, as the texture of the peppers and filling may change upon thawing and reheating.​

How do I prevent the filling from spilling out during baking?

Ensure the peppers are properly halved and lay flat on the baking sheet. Filling them just below the edge and baking them upright will help prevent spillage.​

Conclusion

Fresno Poppers are a flavorful and versatile appetizer that can be tailored to suit various taste preferences. Their combination of sweet heat and creamy filling makes them a favorite for many. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply looking for a delicious snack, these poppers are sure to impress.

Print