Sausage Stuffed Jalapenos Recipe

Jalapenos: Fresh, halved, and seeded peppers that provide a spicy kick.

Sausage: Cooked and crumbled meat that adds a savory flavor.

Cream cheese: Softened cheese that creates a creamy texture for the filling.

Cheddar cheese: Shredded cheese that adds a rich, cheesy taste.

When preparing the jalapenos, make sure to wear gloves to protect your hands from the spicy oils. After halving and seeding the jalapenos, rinse them under cold water to remove any remaining seeds and reduce their heat. This will ensure a more balanced flavor when combined with the sausage and cheese mixture.

• jalapenos - Substitute with mini bell peppers: Mini bell peppers are milder in heat and provide a similar crunch and shape for stuffing.

• cooked and crumbled sausage - Substitute with ground turkey: Ground turkey is a leaner option and can be seasoned to mimic the flavors of sausage.

• cooked and crumbled sausage - Substitute with vegetarian sausage crumbles: For a vegetarian option, use sausage crumbles made from plant-based proteins.

• softened cream cheese - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt provides a tangy flavor and creamy texture while being lower in fat.

• softened cream cheese - Substitute with ricotta cheese: Ricotta cheese offers a similar creamy texture and can be used for a milder flavor.

• shredded cheddar cheese - Substitute with Monterey Jack cheese: Monterey Jack cheese melts well and has a mild flavor that complements the dish.

• shredded cheddar cheese - Substitute with mozzarella cheese: Mozzarella cheese provides a stretchy, melty texture and a mild flavor that pairs well with the other ingredients.

• Allow the sausage stuffed jalapenos to cool completely after baking. This helps prevent condensation, which can make them soggy.
• Place the cooled jalapenos in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This ensures they freeze individually and don't stick together.
• Transfer the baking sheet to the freezer and let the jalapenos freeze for about 1-2 hours, or until they are solid.
• Once frozen, remove the jalapenos from the baking sheet and place them in a resealable freezer bag or airtight container. Label the bag or container with the date to keep track of freshness.
• When ready to enjoy, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the frozen jalapenos on a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until heated through and the filling is bubbly.
• For storing in the refrigerator, place the cooled jalapenos in an airtight container. They can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• To reheat refrigerated jalapenos, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the jalapenos on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Arrange the leftover sausage stuffed jalapenos on a baking sheet.
  3. Cover them loosely with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning.
  4. Heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until the jalapenos are warmed through and the cheese is melty.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Place the stuffed jalapenos on a microwave-safe plate.
  2. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
  3. Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure they are heating evenly.

• Air Fryer Method:

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Arrange the jalapenos in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
  3. Heat for 5-7 minutes, or until the filling is hot and the jalapenos are crispy.

• Stovetop Method:

  1. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
  2. Place the stuffed jalapenos in the skillet, cut side up.
  3. Cover with a lid and heat for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the jalapenos are warmed through.

• Toaster Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your toaster oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the stuffed jalapenos on a toaster oven tray.
  3. Heat for 10-12 minutes, or until the jalapenos are hot and the filling is bubbly.

• Oven: Used to bake the stuffed jalapenos at the specified temperature.

• Mixing bowl: Used to combine the cooked sausage, cream cheese, and cheddar cheese.

• Baking sheet: Used to place the stuffed jalapenos on for baking.

• Knife: Used to halve and seed the jalapenos.

• Spoon: Used to stuff each jalapeno half with the sausage mixture.

• Measuring cup: Used to measure the shredded cheddar cheese.

• Spatula: Used to mix the ingredients thoroughly in the mixing bowl.

• Cutting board: Used as a surface to halve and seed the jalapenos.

Prepare the filling in advance: Mix the sausage, cream cheese, and cheddar cheese the night before and store in the fridge.

Use pre-cooked sausage: Save time by using pre-cooked sausage instead of cooking it yourself.

Opt for a food processor: Quickly blend the filling ingredients in a food processor for a smoother consistency.

Line the baking sheet: Use parchment paper or a silicone mat to make cleanup easier.

Preheat the oven early: Start preheating the oven before you begin prepping to save waiting time.