Jalapeño Cheddar Poppers
Jalapeño Cheddar Poppers are a popular appetizer consisting of fresh jalapeño peppers that are halved, seeded, and filled with a mixture of cheddar cheese and often cream cheese, then typically coated in breadcrumbs and fried or baked until golden and crispy. Originating in Tex-Mex cuisine, they are a staple at parties, sports events, and casual dining restaurants across the United States.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This dish is generally high in fat and calories due to the cheese filling and frying method, with a moderate amount of protein from the cheese. A typical serving of two poppers can range from 150 to 250 calories, providing calcium and some vitamin C from the pepper.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 450 kcal |
| Protein | 18 g |
| Carbs | 28 g |
| Fat | 32 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 3 g |
| Sodium | 780 mg |
| Calcium | 250 mg |
| Iron | 1.5 mg |
| Vitamin A | 800 IU |
| Vitamin C | 15 mg |
| Potassium | 320 mg |
| Phosphorus | 280 mg |
| Vitamin B12 | 0.8 mcg |
| Zinc | 2.2 mg |
Per 6 poppers (150 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, the popper represents a classic example of American party food that blends Mexican chili peppers with dairy-centric American comfort flavors. Nutritionally, the capsaicin in the jalapeño may offer a metabolism-boosting effect, though this is often offset by the high-fat preparation.
