5 Irresistible Baked Ricotta Jalapeño Poppers Recipes

There's something incredibly tempting about the combination of creamy ricotta cheese and the spicy kick of jalapeños, especially when they come together in the form of poppers. Baked Ricotta Jalapeño Poppers are not only a healthier alternative to the classic fried version but also equally delicious. In this post, we'll explore five irresistible recipes that turn this simple appetizer into a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.

Recipe 1: Classic Baked Ricotta Jalapeño Poppers

Ingredients:

• 8-10 medium jalapeños
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh chives
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut jalapeños in half lengthwise and remove seeds and membranes. This reduces the heat level for those who prefer a milder taste.
3. In a bowl, mix ricotta, cheddar, garlic, chives, salt, and pepper until well combined.
4. Stuff each jalapeño half with the cheese mixture.
5. Arrange the jalapeños on a baking sheet, optionally sprinkle with breadcrumbs.
6. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until the peppers are tender and the cheese has a golden crust.

🔍 Note: For added crunch, you can use panko or crushed cornflakes instead of regular breadcrumbs.

Recipe 2: Prosciutto-Wrapped Ricotta Jalapeño Poppers

Adding prosciutto to jalapeño poppers elevates their flavor profile with a savory and slightly salty touch.

Ingredients:

• 10 jalapeños
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/3 cup grated Parmesan
• 8-10 slices of prosciutto
• 1 tsp dried Italian herbs
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
• Black pepper

Instructions:

1. Follow the same initial steps as Recipe 1 for preparing the jalapeños.
2. Mix the ricotta, Parmesan, Italian herbs, red pepper flakes, and black pepper.
3. Fill the jalapeño halves with this mixture.
4. Wrap each stuffed jalapeño with a slice of prosciutto, ensuring the filling is well-covered.
5. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, or until the prosciutto is crispy.

🔪 Note: Cutting the prosciutto into strips makes wrapping the jalapeños easier and more uniform.

Recipe 3: Spinach and Ricotta Jalapeño Poppers

This recipe adds a touch of green to the classic poppers, making them not only more flavorful but also a bit more nutritious.

Ingredients:

• 12 jalapeños
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup finely chopped spinach
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan
• 1 tbsp chopped basil
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp onion powder
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare jalapeños as previously described.
3. Combine ricotta, spinach, Parmesan, basil, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt.
4. Stuff jalapeño halves with this mix.
5. Bake for approximately 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and the peppers are soft.

Recipe 4: Sweet and Spicy Ricotta Poppers

Introduce a sweet element to the spicy jalapeño for an intriguing flavor balance.

Ingredients:

• 10 jalapeños
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 3 tbsp finely chopped cranberries or dried cherries
• 1/4 cup crushed pretzels (for topping)
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tbsp honey

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare jalapeños as in previous recipes.
3. Mix ricotta with cranberries or cherries, and honey; fill jalapeños.
4. Sprinkle with crushed pretzels and smoked paprika.
5. Bake for 18-22 minutes or until the topping is golden.

Recipe 5: Caprese-Stuffed Ricotta Jalapeño Poppers

Turn your poppers into a taste of Italy with this fresh and flavorful twist.

Ingredients:

• 12 jalapeños
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella
• 10-12 cherry tomatoes, quartered
• Fresh basil leaves
• 1/2 tsp balsamic vinegar
• 1/4 tsp Italian seasoning

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare jalapeños as usual.
3. Combine ricotta, mozzarella, basil leaves (torn or chopped), tomatoes, balsamic vinegar, and Italian seasoning.
4. Fill jalapeños with this mixture.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and peppers are tender.

🔥 Note: If you like your poppers extra spicy, leave in some of the jalapeño seeds.

Each of these recipes brings a unique twist to the classic baked ricotta jalapeño poppers, ensuring there's something for every palate. Whether you prefer the traditional flavors or are adventurous enough to try something sweet or caprese-style, these appetizers are sure to be a hit. They are versatile, relatively simple to prepare, and above all, incredibly tasty. Next time you're hosting a party or just looking for a fun snack, give these poppers a go. Their vibrant flavors and delightful textures will surely not disappoint.