Name: Jalapeno Popper “Nachos” Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: Reynolds Wrap Non-Stick Foil; Olive oil spray; ½ lb ground turkey; 1 clove garlic; 2 tbsp onion; 1 tbsp fresh cilantro; ½ tsp garlic powder; ½ tsp cumin powder; ½ tsp kosher salt; ½ tbsp tomato paste; 2 tbsp water; 8 jalapeño peppers; 3 oz cream cheese; 1 Scallions; ½ oz Cheddar Cheese; For Toppings:; ½ cup Cheddar Cheese; scallions and cilantro; 2 tbsp sour cream; ½ cup pico de gallo; 2 tbsp sliced black olives

Transform your nacho game with these irresistible jalapeno popper nachos. They bring together the creamy spiciness of jalapeno poppers with the delightful crunch of nachos, making them perfect for any gathering or a cozy snack night.

Photos of Jalapeno Popper “Nachos” Recipe

Some of the ingredients in this recipe might not be commonly found in your pantry. Ground turkey, jalapeño peppers, and cream cheese are essential for making the filling and the base of the nachos. If you're heading to the supermarket, make sure you grab these along with fresh cilantro and scallions for garnish.

Ingredients For Jalapeno Popper Nachos

Reynolds wrap non-stick foil: Non-stick aluminum foil to line the baking sheet, ensuring easy cleanup.

Olive oil spray: To lightly coat the skillet for cooking the meat and aromatics.

Ground turkey: Lean meat that serves as the protein base for the nachos.

Garlic: Adds a robust flavor to the sautéed meat and aromatics.

Onion: Provides a sweet and pungent depth to the dish.

Fresh cilantro: Adds a burst of fresh, citrusy flavor to the meat and as a garnish.

Garlic powder: Enhances the meat's flavor with a more concentrated garlic taste.

Cumin powder: Adds a warm, earthy flavor to the ground turkey.

Kosher salt: Helps to season the meat evenly.

Tomato paste: Thickens the meat mixture and adds a rich tomato flavor.

Water: Used to blend with the tomato paste, creating a sauce for the meat mixture.

Jalapeño peppers: The star of the show, providing a spicy, crunchy base for the nachos.

Cream cheese: Adds creaminess to the jalapeno filling.

Scallions: Adds a mild onion flavor to the cream cheese filling and as a garnish.

Cheddar cheese: Used in the filling and on top for a melty, cheesy finish.

Sour cream: Provides a cool, tangy contrast to the spicy jalapenos.

Pico de gallo: Adds fresh, zesty flavors as a topping.

Sliced black olives: Adds a salty, briny flavor to the nachos.

One reader, Jarrid Larose says:

These jalapeno popper nachos are a game-changer! The perfect blend of spicy, creamy, and savory flavors makes every bite irresistible. Easy to make and a huge hit at our party. Highly recommend!

Jarrid Larose

Key Techniques for Crafting Jalapeno Popper Nachos

Yes.

How to sauté: Heat a medium nonstick skillet over medium heat, spray with oil, and cook the onion, cilantro, and garlic until soft, about 2 minutes.

How to cook ground turkey: Add ground turkey to the skillet with salt, garlic powder, and cumin. Break it up with a spoon and cook for 4 to 5 minutes until completely cooked through.

How to mix ingredients: Pour tomato paste and water into the cooked turkey mixture, mix well, and simmer on medium for about 2 to 3 minutes.

How to prepare cream cheese filling: Combine cream cheese, cheddar, and scallions in a medium bowl. Use a small spoon or spatula to spoon about 1 teaspoon of the cream cheese filling into the peppers.

How to bake jalapeño peppers: Arrange the filled peppers in a single layer, cut-side up, close together on a baking sheet. Bake until soft, about 12 to 15 minutes.

How to melt cheese: Top the baked peppers with meat and cheese, then bake until the cheese is melted, about 3 minutes more.

How to garnish nachos: Remove from oven and top with pico de gallo, olives, and drizzle with sour cream. Garnish with cilantro and scallions and serve immediately.

How To Make Jalapeno Popper Nachos

You might want to try this jalapeno popper that is not only flavorful but also filling with ground turkey and a rich tomato paste. It will blow your mind!

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 30 minutes

Total: 45 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

Reynolds Wrap Non-Stick Foil
Olive oil spray
½lbground turkey
1clovegarlicminced
2tbsponionchopped, minced
1tbspfresh cilantrochopped
½tspgarlic powder
½tspcumin powder
½tspkosher salt
½tbsptomato paste
2tbspwater
8jalapeno peppershalved, seeded, and membranes removed
3ozcream cheese
1scallionslarge, green part only, sliced
½ozcheddar cheeseshredded sharp

For Toppings:

½cupcheddar cheeseshredded sharp
scallions and cilantrochopped, for garnish
2tbspsour creamplus 2 tsp water, for drizzling
½cuppico de gallo
2tbspsliced black olives

Instructions

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F and line a large baking sheet with nonstick aluminum foil.
Heat a medium nonstick skillet over medium heat and spray with oil. Add onion, cilantro, and garlic, and sauté for about 2 minutes, until soft.
Add ground turkey, salt, garlic powder, cumin and cook meat for 4 to 5 minutes until meat is completely cooked through breaking it up with a spoon.
Pour the tomato paste and water, mix well and simmer on medium for about 2 to 3 minutes, remove from heat.
Meanwhile, combine cream cheese, cheddar and scallions in a medium bowl. Using a small spoon or a spatula, spoon about 1 teaspoon of the cream cheese filling into the peppers.
Arrange in a single layer, cut-side up close together. Bake until soft, about 12 to 15 minutes.
Top with meat and cheese and bake until melted, about 3 minutes more.
Remove from oven and top with pico de gallo, olives and drizzle with sour cream. Garnish with cilantro and scallions and serve immediately.

Nutrition

Calories: 180.38kcal
Fat: 14.62g
Saturated Fat: 5.58g
Trans Fat: 0.15g
Monounsaturated Fat: 6.14g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.46g
Carbohydrates: 4.12g
Fiber: 0.66g
Sugar: 2.33g
Protein: 9.03g
Cholesterol: 43.04mg
Sodium: 231.36mg
Calcium: 95.53mg
Potassium: 159.57mg
Iron: 0.69mg
Vitamin A: 89.73µg
Vitamin C: 18.44mg

Pro Tip for Perfecting Your Jalapeno Popper Nachos Technique

When stuffing the jalapeño peppers, use a piping bag or a resealable plastic bag with the corner snipped off to make filling them with the cream cheese mixture easier and more precise. This ensures an even distribution of the filling and makes the process quicker and less messy.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Recipe

Prepare ingredients in advance: Chop onion, cilantro, and garlic ahead of time and store them in the fridge.

Use pre-cooked meat: Substitute ground turkey with pre-cooked ground meat to save cooking time.

Pre-mix cheese filling: Combine cream cheese, cheddar, and scallions the night before.

Use a food processor: Quickly chop vegetables like jalapeños and onions using a food processor.

Line baking sheet early: Prepare your baking sheet with non-stick foil before starting any cooking steps.

Preheat oven during prep: Start preheating the oven while you prepare the other ingredients.

Substitute Ingredients For Jalapeno Popper “Nachos” Recipe

olive oil spray - Substitute with canola oil spray: Canola oil spray has a neutral flavor and similar cooking properties.
ground turkey - Substitute with ground chicken: Ground chicken offers a similar texture and mild flavor.
garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can provide a similar flavor profile, though it is less pungent.
onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots have a milder and slightly sweeter taste compared to onions.
fresh cilantro - Substitute with fresh parsley: Fresh parsley offers a similar fresh, herbaceous note without the strong cilantro flavor.
garlic powder - Substitute with onion powder: Onion powder can provide a similar depth of flavor.
cumin powder - Substitute with ground coriander: Ground coriander has a slightly citrusy flavor that can complement the dish.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt has a similar texture and salinity.
tomato paste - Substitute with ketchup: Ketchup can provide a similar tomato flavor and sweetness.
water - Substitute with chicken broth: Chicken broth adds more flavor compared to plain water.
jalapeño peppers - Substitute with poblano peppers: Poblano peppers are milder but still provide a slight heat.
cream cheese - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt offers a tangy flavor and creamy texture.
scallions - Substitute with chives: Chives have a similar mild onion flavor.
cheddar cheese - Substitute with Monterey Jack cheese: Monterey Jack cheese melts well and has a mild flavor.
cheddar cheese - Substitute with Colby cheese: Colby cheese has a similar texture and flavor profile.
sour cream - Substitute with plain Greek yogurt: Plain Greek yogurt offers a similar tangy flavor and creamy texture.
pico de gallo - Substitute with salsa: Salsa provides a similar mix of tomatoes, onions, and peppers.
sliced black olives - Substitute with sliced green olives: Green olives offer a similar briny flavor.

How to Present Jalapeno Popper Nachos for Maximum Appeal

Serve smaller portion sizes: Arrange the jalapeño peppers in a neat, circular pattern on a large, elegant white plate. This will highlight the vibrant colors and make each jalapeño popper the star of the dish.
Use decoration: Garnish the plate with finely chopped cilantro and scallions, creating a delicate green border around the jalapeño poppers. This adds a fresh, aromatic touch.
Layer flavors: Place a small dollop of sour cream on top of each jalapeño popper, followed by a sprinkle of pico de gallo and a few sliced black olives. This ensures each bite is packed with a variety of flavors.
Highlight textures: Ensure the cream cheese filling is smooth and creamy, contrasting with the crunch of the jalapeño and the slight crispiness of the cheddar cheese topping. This combination of textures will delight the palate.
Use high-quality ingredients: Emphasize the use of fresh, high-quality ground turkey, garlic, onion, and cilantro. This will elevate the overall taste and presentation of the dish.
Create visual appeal: Drizzle a thin line of sour cream artistically across the plate, using a squeeze bottle for precision. This adds a professional touch and enhances the visual appeal.
Balance colors: Use the vibrant green of the jalapeños, the creamy white of the sour cream, the bright red of the pico de gallo, and the dark contrast of the black olives to create a visually stunning dish.
Serve immediately: Ensure the jalapeño popper nachos are served hot, with the cheddar cheese perfectly melted and the jalapeños still slightly crisp. This will provide the best texture and flavor experience for the judges.

Essential Tools for Making the Perfect Jalapeno Popper Nachos

Reynolds Wrap non-stick foil: Used to line the baking sheet to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
Olive oil spray: Used to coat the skillet to prevent the ingredients from sticking while cooking.
Large baking sheet: Used to arrange the jalapeño peppers and bake them in the oven.
Medium nonstick skillet: Used to cook the ground turkey and sauté the onions, garlic, and cilantro.
Spoon: Used to break up the ground turkey while cooking and to mix ingredients.
Small spoon or spatula: Used to fill the jalapeño peppers with the cream cheese mixture.
Medium bowl: Used to mix the cream cheese, cheddar, and scallions together.
Oven: Used to bake the jalapeño peppers and melt the cheese.
Knife: Used to chop the garlic, onion, and cilantro.
Cutting board: Used as a surface for chopping the ingredients.
Measuring spoons: Used to measure out the spices, tomato paste, and water.
Mixing spoon: Used to combine the tomato paste and water with the cooked turkey.
Serving platter: Used to serve the finished jalapeño popper nachos.

Storing and Freezing Guidelines for Jalapeno Popper Nachos

To store leftover jalapeno popper nachos, allow them to cool completely to room temperature before placing them in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
When ready to reheat, place the nachos on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes or until heated through and the cheese is melted.
For longer storage, you can freeze the nachos. Place the cooled nachos in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing. Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat frozen nachos, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the frozen nachos on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until heated through and the cheese is melted.
Note: The texture of the nachos may change slightly after freezing and reheating, as the tortilla chips may become softer. To help maintain their crispness, you can add a fresh layer of tortilla chips on top before reheating.

How To Reheat Leftover Jalapeno Popper Nachos

To reheat leftover jalapeno popper nachos, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the nachos evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Place the baking sheet in the oven and heat for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the nachos are heated through.
Alternatively, you can reheat the nachos in the microwave. Place a single serving of nachos on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 30-60 seconds, or until the cheese is melted and the nachos are warm. Be careful not to overheat, as the nachos may become soggy.
For a crispy texture, you can also reheat the nachos in an air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the nachos in the basket. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the nachos are crispy.
If you find that the nachos are a bit dry after reheating, you can add a dollop of sour cream, guacamole, or salsa to bring back some moisture and freshness.
To prevent the nachos from becoming soggy during storage, store the toppings separately from the tortilla chips. When you're ready to reheat, assemble the nachos with the toppings and then follow one of the reheating methods mentioned above.

Interesting Trivia About Jalapeno Popper Nachos

A fun fact about this jalapeño popper nachos recipe is that it combines the flavors of traditional jalapeño poppers with the beloved nachos, creating a unique fusion dish. This recipe uses ground turkey instead of the more common beef, making it a lighter option while still packing a punch with its spicy and creamy elements.

Is Making Jalapeno Popper Nachos at Home Cost-Effective?

This jalapeño popper nachos recipe is relatively cost-effective for a household. Using ground turkey instead of beef reduces costs, and jalapeños and cream cheese are affordable. The use of pico de gallo and sour cream adds flavor without breaking the bank. Overall Verdict: 8/10. Approximate cost: $15-$20 for a household of 4 people.

Are Jalapeno Popper Nachos Healthy or Unhealthy?

The jalapeno popper nachos recipe is a delicious and indulgent treat, but it may not be the healthiest option. Here's why:

The recipe uses ground turkey, which is a leaner protein source compared to beef. However, the addition of cream cheese and cheddar cheese increases the overall fat content of the dish.
Jalapeno peppers are a good source of vitamin C and other nutrients, but they are also high in sodium.
The recipe calls for sour cream and black olives as toppings, which can add extra calories and fat to the dish.
The use of non-stick aluminum foil is a convenient cooking method, but it may not be the most environmentally friendly option.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Use low-fat cream cheese and reduced-fat cheddar cheese to decrease the overall fat content of the dish.
Increase the amount of vegetables used in the recipe, such as adding diced tomatoes or bell peppers to the turkey mixture.
Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream as a topping to reduce the calorie and fat content.
Opt for whole grain tortilla chips instead of regular chips to increase the fiber content of the dish.
Use fresh herbs and spices, such as cilantro and cumin, to add flavor without increasing the sodium content.
Consider using a more environmentally friendly cooking method, such as a silicone baking mat instead of aluminum foil.

Editor's Opinion: Thoughts on Jalapeno Popper Nachos

This jalapeno popper nachos recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures. The combination of creamy cheese, spicy jalapenos, and savory ground turkey creates a satisfying bite. The use of fresh cilantro and scallions adds a refreshing touch, while the pico de gallo and olives provide a burst of acidity and brininess. The layering technique ensures each bite is balanced and flavorful. Overall, it's a well-thought-out dish that is sure to impress at any gathering.

Enhance Your Jalapeno Popper “Nachos” Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Grilled Mexican Street Corn: Imagine the smoky, charred kernels of corn slathered in a creamy, tangy sauce, sprinkled with cotija cheese and a dash of chili powder. This side dish will add a burst of flavor and a hint of sweetness to your jalapeno popper nachos.

Avocado Lime Salad: A refreshing mix of avocado, lime juice, and crisp romaine lettuce, this salad brings a zesty, creamy contrast to the spicy, cheesy goodness of your nachos. The cilantro and red onion add an extra layer of vibrant flavor.

Spicy Black Bean Soup: Warm up with a bowl of hearty black bean soup, spiced with cumin and smoked paprika. The creamy texture and rich flavors will complement the crunchy, cheesy nachos perfectly, making it a comforting addition to your meal.

Mango Salsa: Brighten up your plate with a colorful mango salsa. The sweetness of the mango combined with the tanginess of lime and the heat of jalapeno creates a delightful contrast that will elevate your nachos to the next level.

Churros with Chocolate Sauce: End your meal on a sweet note with crispy, golden churros dusted with cinnamon sugar and served with a rich, velvety chocolate sauce. This dessert will provide a delightful balance to the savory, spicy flavors of your nachos.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Love Jalapeno Popper Nachos

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Imagine vibrant bell peppers filled with a savory mix of ground beef, rice, and tomato sauce. Topped with melted cheese and baked to perfection, these stuffed peppers are a hearty and colorful addition to any meal.

Buffalo Chicken Nachos: Take your nacho game to the next level with shredded chicken tossed in spicy buffalo sauce. Layered over crispy tortilla chips and smothered in cheddar cheese, these nachos are finished with a drizzle of ranch dressing and a sprinkle of green onions.

Loaded Potato Skins: Crispy potato skins loaded with bacon, cheddar cheese, and green onions. Baked until the cheese is melted and bubbly, these potato skins are perfect for dipping in sour cream or ranch dressing.

Spinach Artichoke Dip: A creamy blend of spinach and artichoke hearts, mixed with cream cheese, sour cream, and parmesan cheese. Baked until golden and bubbly, this dip is perfect for serving with tortilla chips or crusty bread.

BBQ Chicken Flatbread: A crispy flatbread topped with BBQ sauce, shredded chicken, red onions, and mozzarella cheese. Baked until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and garnished with fresh cilantro.

Ideal Main Courses and Desserts to Pair with Jalapeno Popper Nachos

Main Courses:

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Elevate your dinner with these Stuffed Bell Peppers. Start by sautéing a mix of ground beef and aromatic vegetables, such as onions and garlic. Add a blend of spices to enhance the flavor. Incorporate cooked rice and tomato sauce to create a hearty filling. Hollow out bell peppers and stuff them generously with the mixture. Bake until the peppers are tender and the filling is bubbling. Finish with a sprinkle of cheese and fresh herbs for a delightful main course.

Chicken Alfredo Pasta: Indulge in the creamy goodness of Chicken Alfredo Pasta. Begin by cooking fettuccine until al dente. In a separate pan, sauté chicken breasts seasoned with salt and pepper until golden brown. Prepare a rich Alfredo sauce using butter, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Combine the cooked pasta and chicken with the sauce, ensuring every strand is coated. Garnish with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice for a burst of freshness. This dish promises a comforting and satisfying meal.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Imagine a warm, molten chocolate center oozing out of a rich, decadent cake. This dessert is a showstopper, perfect for impressing guests. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an indulgent treat. The contrast between the warm, gooey chocolate and the cold, creamy ice cream creates a delightful experience for the palate.

Tiramisu: Transport your taste buds to Italy with this classic coffee-flavored dessert. Layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers are nestled between rich, creamy mascarpone cheese and dusted with cocoa powder. The bitterness of the coffee perfectly balances the sweetness of the cream, making each bite a harmonious blend of flavors. Serve chilled for a refreshing end to any meal.

Why trust this Jalapeno Popper “Nachos” Recipe:

This recipe combines the irresistible flavors of jalapeño peppers, cream cheese, and ground turkey to create a unique twist on traditional nachos. The use of fresh ingredients like cilantro and pico de gallo ensures a burst of flavor in every bite. The step-by-step instructions make it easy to follow, even for beginners. Plus, baking the jalapeños brings out their natural sweetness, balancing the heat perfectly. Trust this recipe for a delicious and crowd-pleasing appetizer.

Share your thoughts and experiences with the Jalapeno Popper "Nachos" recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum section.

FAQ:

How spicy are these jalapeno popper nachos?

The spiciness can vary depending on the jalapenos you use. If you want to tone down the heat, you can remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapenos before stuffing them.

Can I use a different type of meat instead of ground turkey?

Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey with ground beef, chicken, or even a meatless option like crumbled tofu or a plant-based meat substitute.

Can I make these nachos ahead of time?

You can prepare the components ahead of time, but I recommend assembling and baking them just before serving to keep everything fresh and the nachos crispy.

What can I use instead of cream cheese for the filling?

If you're not a fan of cream cheese, you can use ricotta cheese or even a mixture of Greek yogurt and shredded cheese for a different texture and flavor.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350 degrees F until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes.