Description
These Classic Ground Turkey Stuffed Jalapeno Peppers are a flavorful, spicy appetizer perfect for gatherings or a tasty snack. Jalapenos are halved and deseeded, then filled with a creamy mixture of cream cheese, mayonnaise, Mexican cheese, and seasoned ground turkey. Each bite delivers a balance of heat, creaminess, and savory spices, baked until bubbly and golden.
Ingredients
Scale
Jalapenos
- 16 jalapenos, halved lengthwise and seeds removed
Cheese Mixture
- 16 oz cream cheese (Philadelphia recommended for smooth texture)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (Hellmann’s preferred for richness)
- 12 oz Mexican cheese, shredded
Seasonings
- 1.5 tbsp chile powder
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes
- 3/4 tsp cumin
- 3/4 tsp cayenne pepper
- 3/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp oregano
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
Protein
- 1 lb ground turkey, browned and crumbled
Instructions
- Prepare Jalapenos: Slice each jalapeno pepper in half lengthwise and carefully remove all seeds to reduce heat, setting them aside for stuffing.
- Brown Ground Turkey: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground turkey until fully browned and crumbled, ensuring even cooking without pink spots, then drain excess fat if necessary.
- Mix Filling: In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, shredded Mexican cheese, chile powder, red pepper flakes, cumin, cayenne pepper, salt, oregano, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Add the browned ground turkey and mix thoroughly until well combined and creamy.
- Stuff Jalapenos: Using a spoon or small spatula, fill each jalapeno half generously with the cheese and turkey mixture, smoothing the top for a neat appearance.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the stuffed jalapeno halves on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the filling is bubbly and the jalapenos are tender but still hold their shape.
- Serve: Remove from oven and allow to cool for a few minutes before serving. These stuffed jalapenos are best served warm as an appetizer or party snack.
Notes
- Removing all seeds from the jalapenos helps control the heat level, but leaving some seeds in will make the dish spicier.
- Use full-fat cream cheese and mayonnaise for the creamiest texture and richest flavor.
- You can substitute ground turkey with ground chicken or pork if preferred.
- For a vegetarian version, omit turkey and add black beans or plant-based meat alternatives.
- These stuffed jalapenos can be prepared in advance and refrigerated before baking; just add a few extra minutes to bake time if they come straight from the fridge.
- Serve with a cooling dip like sour cream or ranch to balance the heat.
