Jalapeno Poppers Stuffed with Black Beans
Highlighted under: Local Collection
I absolutely love making Jalapeno Poppers stuffed with black beans! This recipe came about when I wanted a meat-free option for a gathering, and it was a hit. The creamy texture of the black beans combined with the spicy kick of the jalapenos creates an irresistible bite that’s perfect for parties or a cozy evening snack. I’ve also mixed in some spices to enhance the flavor, making these poppers a must-try for any veggie lover!
Creating these Jalapeno Poppers stuffed with black beans was both a fun culinary adventure and a delicious experiment. I initially planned to make a classic stuffed version, but I wanted to add a unique twist by using black beans. The result was better than I anticipated, with the bean mixture perfectly blending with the cream cheese and spices.
One of my favorite tips for this recipe is to remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapenos. This reduces the heat, making the poppers accessible for all palates while still packing in that delicious pepper flavor. It’s a great balance!
Why You'll Love It
- Spicy jalapeno flavor with a satisfying black bean filling
- Creamy texture enhanced by cream cheese and spices
- Perfect for appetizers and gatherings or as a game day snack
Mastering the Stuffing Technique
When stuffing the jalapenos, it's important to pack the black bean mixture tightly into each half. This ensures that the filling holds together during baking and maximizes flavor in every bite. I like to use a small spoon or a piping bag to fill the pepper halves, which allows for more control and precision. Ensuring the jalapenos are filled to the brim helps create that delightful contrast between the spicy pepper and the creamy filling.
Feel free to adjust the spiciness by choosing milder jalapenos or leaving a few seeds in for added heat. You can also experiment by mixing in additional ingredients like corn or diced tomatoes for added texture and flavor. If you want to keep the filling dairy-free, substitute the cream cheese with a vegan alternative to maintain that creamy texture while keeping it vegetarian.
Baking to Perfection
Baking the poppers at 375°F (190°C) helps the jalapenos soften while allowing the filling to meld and become creamy. Keep a close eye on them, especially towards the end of the cooking time, as you're looking for a golden and bubbly appearance. If the tops haven’t browned after 20 minutes, you can broil them for an additional 2-3 minutes—just make sure to watch closely to avoid burning.
Another key aspect is to arrange the stuffed jalapenos with some space between them on the baking sheet. This allows them to cook evenly and ensures that every popper develops a crisp exterior without becoming soggy. If you're planning to double the recipe, consider baking in batches for optimal results.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to make your delicious Jalapeno Poppers:
Ingredients
- 12 fresh jalapenos
- 1 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for drizzling
Once you have all your ingredients ready, it's time to prepare your poppers!
Instructions
Follow these steps to make your Jalapeno Poppers:
Prepare the Jalapenos
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes carefully.
Make the Filling
In a bowl, combine black beans, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended.
Stuff the Jalapenos
Fill each jalapeno half with the black bean mixture, pressing it in gently to ensure it is packed well.
Bake the Poppers
Arrange the stuffed jalapenos on a baking sheet. Drizzle with a little olive oil and bake for 20 minutes, or until golden and bubbly.
Serve and Enjoy
Allow the poppers to cool slightly before serving. They’re great on their own or paired with dipping sauces!
Enjoy your homemade Jalapeno Poppers stuffed with black beans!
Pro Tips
- Experiment with additional spices like smoked paprika or cayenne for an extra kick. You can also substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative if you're looking for a vegan option.
Serving Suggestions
These jalapeno poppers can be served with a variety of dipping sauces to complement their flavor. Sour cream or a tangy ranch dressing pairs beautifully with the spice. If you're feeling adventurous, a zesty avocado crema or a spicy salsa can elevate the experience further. Serve them on a platter garnished with fresh cilantro for a pop of color and freshness.
They make a great appetizer or snack at your next gathering. You can easily double or halve the recipe based on your guest count, making them versatile for any occasion. If you have leftovers, they reheat well in the oven at a low temperature (around 300°F or 150°C) until warmed through, preserving their crispy texture.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
If you want to prepare these poppers in advance, you can assemble them and refrigerate before baking. Cover the stuffed jalapenos tightly with plastic wrap and they can stay fresh for up to 24 hours. This is a great way to save time on game day or party preparations. Just pop them in the oven straight from the fridge, adding an extra 5 minutes to the baking time to ensure they are heated through.
For longer storage, consider freezing them before baking. Arrange the assembled poppers on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. When ready to cook, bake from frozen at 375°F for an additional 5-10 minutes, extending the total time to about 25-30 minutes. This way, you can enjoy fresh jalapeno poppers whenever a craving strikes!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I prepare these poppers in advance?
Yes! You can prepare them and store the stuffed jalapenos in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.
→ Are these poppers spicy?
The spice level can be adjusted. Removing the seeds and membranes makes them milder, while leaving some in will increase the heat.
→ Can I freeze the poppers?
Absolutely! You can freeze the stuffed jalapenos before baking. Just bake them from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
→ What can I serve with these poppers?
They pair wonderfully with guacamole, sour cream, or a tomatillo salsa for dipping.
Jalapeno Poppers Stuffed with Black Beans
I absolutely love making Jalapeno Poppers stuffed with black beans! This recipe came about when I wanted a meat-free option for a gathering, and it was a hit. The creamy texture of the black beans combined with the spicy kick of the jalapenos creates an irresistible bite that’s perfect for parties or a cozy evening snack. I’ve also mixed in some spices to enhance the flavor, making these poppers a must-try for any veggie lover!
Created by: Lottie Pennington
Recipe Type: Local Collection
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 12 poppers
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 12 fresh jalapenos
- 1 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for drizzling
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes carefully.
In a bowl, combine black beans, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended.
Fill each jalapeno half with the black bean mixture, pressing it in gently to ensure it is packed well.
Arrange the stuffed jalapenos on a baking sheet. Drizzle with a little olive oil and bake for 20 minutes, or until golden and bubbly.
Allow the poppers to cool slightly before serving. They’re great on their own or paired with dipping sauces!
Extra Tips
- Experiment with additional spices like smoked paprika or cayenne for an extra kick. You can also substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative if you're looking for a vegan option.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Total Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 24g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 6g