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Several golden-brown baked jalapeño popper stuffed onion rings stacked on a rustic plate, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Irresistible Baked Jalapeño Popper Stuffed Onion Rings

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Prepare for a flavor explosion with these incredible Jalapeño Popper Stuffed Onion Rings! This innovative recipe takes two beloved appetizers and fuses them into one spectacular, crispy, creamy, and spicy delight. Sweet, tender onion rings are generously filled with a zesty, cheesy jalapeño popper mixture, then coated in golden panko and baked to perfection. They’re a guaranteed showstopper for any gathering, game day, or when you’re simply craving a truly unique and satisfying snack.

  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large yellow onions, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch thick rings (separated)
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 4-6 medium jalapeños, finely minced (remove seeds and membranes for less heat)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 3 large eggs, beaten
  • 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Cooking spray or 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a large baking sheet or line it with parchment paper.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, minced jalapeños, shredded cheddar cheese, shredded Monterey Jack cheese, cilantro, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined.
  3. Set up a dredging station: Place all-purpose flour in one shallow dish, beaten eggs in a second shallow dish, and panko breadcrumbs mixed with smoked paprika in a third shallow dish.
  4. Carefully separate the onion rings. Select larger rings for stuffing. Take one onion ring and gently spoon the jalapeño popper mixture into the center, filling it completely and smoothing the top. For sturdier rings, you can nest a slightly smaller onion ring inside a larger one before filling.
  5. Carefully dredge each stuffed onion ring: first coat it completely in flour, then dip it in the beaten egg, letting any excess drip off, and finally coat generously with the panko breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the crumbs adhere well.
  6. Place the coated stuffed onion rings on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, ensuring they are not touching. Lightly spray the tops of the onion rings with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil for an extra crispy finish.
  7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the onion rings are golden brown and crispy, and the cheesy filling is hot and bubbly. For even browning, flip them gently halfway through baking.
  8. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet before transferring to a serving platter. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

For an extra kick, leave some jalapeño seeds and membranes in the mixture. Feel free to customize the cheese blend – Pepper Jack or a Mexican blend works beautifully. These are best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be reheated in an air fryer or toaster oven to regain crispiness. Serve with a side of ranch dressing, sriracha mayo, or a sweet chili sauce for an added treat. You can prepare the popper filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; then assemble and bake just before serving.

  • Author: Cook Reel
  • Prep Time: 25 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American Fusion

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 3 rings)
  • Calories: 380
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 350mg
  • Fat: 25g
  • Saturated Fat: 13g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg
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