Sausage Stuffed Jalapeños Recipe

Looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer? These Sausage Stuffed Jalapeños deliver the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy goodness and spicy heat. Perfect for game days, parties, or keto-friendly snacks, this easy-to-make recipe is packed with flavor. Stuffed with seasoned pork sausage, cream cheese, and gooey mozzarella, every bite is a savory delight. Plus, they’re baked to golden perfection, making them a healthier option than fried appetizers.

These Sausage Stuffed Jalapeños are a flavor-packed appetizer that’s easy to prepare and impossible to resist. Featuring creamy cheeses, savory sausage, and just the right amount of spice, this dish is perfect for game days, parties, or as a snack.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground pork sausage
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese, shredded
• ⅓ cup Mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1 pound fresh jalapeños
• ½ tsp dried sage
• ¼ tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet:
   Preheat your oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
2. Cook the Sausage Filling:
   In a large skillet, brown the ground pork sausage over medium heat. Drain excess fat and remove the skillet from heat.
3. Mix the Cheesy Filling:
   Add the softened cream cheese, shredded Parmesan, and shredded Mozzarella to the cooked sausage. Season the mixture with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and dried sage if needed. Stir until everything is well combined.
4. Prepare the Jalapeños:
   Slice the jalapeños in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes. Be careful to avoid touching your face and wash your hands thoroughly afterward.
5. Stuff the Jalapeños:
   Fill each jalapeño half generously with the sausage and cheese mixture. Arrange them on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake:
   Bake the stuffed jalapeños in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the tops are golden and bubbly. Adjust the baking time based on the size of the jalapeños.
7. Serve:
   Garnish with minced jalapeños, chopped parsley, or additional Parmesan cheese. Serve warm with sour cream or ranch dressing for dipping. Enjoy!

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Tips

• Control the Heat: For milder stuffed jalapeños, thoroughly remove the seeds and membranes. For extra heat, leave a few seeds intact.
• Room Temperature Cream Cheese: Ensure the cream cheese is softened for easier mixing.
• Crispier Tops: Broil for 1-2 minutes at the end of baking for a crispy, golden top.

Variations and Substitutions

• Different Sausages: Try spicy Italian sausage or chicken sausage for a flavor twist.
• Cheese Options: Swap Mozzarella with cheddar or Monterey Jack for a different cheese profile.
• Vegetarian Option: Use plant-based sausage or a mixture of sautéed mushrooms and onions.

FAQs

Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the stuffed jalapeños and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Q: How can I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

Q: Can I freeze these?
Yes, freeze unbaked stuffed jalapeños on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve as an appetizer at parties, game days, or BBQs.
• Pair with a side of guacamole, salsa, or queso dip.
• Offer alongside crunchy veggies and tortilla chips for variety.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward instructions make this a breeze to prepare.
• Customizable: Adjust the heat level, cheeses, or fillings to suit your taste.
• Crowd-Pleaser: These are always a hit at gatherings and are gone in no time.
• Keto-Friendly: A great low-carb appetizer option for those on a keto diet.

Enjoy the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, spicy, and savory flavors with these Sausage Stuffed Jalapeños!