Jalapeño Poppers with Creamy Ranch
Ingredients:
1 pound jalapeños, halved lengthwise and seeded
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
1/4 cup chopped green onions
1 tablespoon chopped cilantro
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
1/2 cup bread crumbs
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup milk
1 large egg, beaten
Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Creamy Ranch:
1 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup sour cream
2 tablespoons buttermilk
1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
1 teaspoon dried dill
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, green onions, cilantro, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is thoroughly combined.
3. Fill each jalapeño half with the cream cheese mixture. Make sure to pack it in firmly.
4. In three separate shallow dishes, place the flour, beaten egg, and breadcrumbs.
5. Gently dredge each jalapeño popper in the flour, then dip in the egg, ensuring it's fully coated, and finally, coat completely with breadcrumbs. Press gently to help the breadcrumbs adhere.
6. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. The oil should be hot enough that a breadcrumb dropped in sizzles immediately.
7. Carefully place the jalapeño poppers in the hot oil, working in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
8. Remove the jalapeño poppers from the skillet and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
9. Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the jalapeños are tender.
10. While the poppers are baking or frying, prepare the creamy ranch dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, buttermilk, chives, parsley, dill, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy.
11. Serve the jalapeño poppers immediately, while hot and crispy, with a generous dollop of the creamy ranch dressing.