Sausage stuffed jalapeños are the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer that packs a punch of flavor in every bite. With their spicy kick, creamy center, and savory sausage goodness, these bite-sized snacks are perfect for game day, parties, or any occasion where finger food is a must. The contrast between the spicy peppers and the rich, cheesy filling creates a harmony that’s simply irresistible. In this post, you’ll learn how to make the best sausage stuffed jalapeños with just a few ingredients and easy-to-follow steps. Let’s dive into this spicy, cheesy, and satisfying recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Sausage Stuffed Jalapeños Recipe
You’ll love this sausage stuffed jalapeños recipe because it’s incredibly flavorful, easy to make, and perfect for entertaining. The creamy cheese and savory sausage filling perfectly complement the slight heat of the jalapeños. Plus, they bake to a beautiful golden brown and can be served with your favorite dips, like ranch dressing, to enhance every bite. Whether you’re a fan of spicy food or just want something new and delicious, this recipe is sure to become a go-to in your appetizer rotation.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef sausage
- 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 pound large fresh jalapeño peppers, halved lengthwise and deseeded
- 1 bottle (8 ounces) ranch dressing, for dipping (optional)
Step-by-Step: How to Make Sausage Stuffed Jalapeños
- Preheat Your Oven: Begin by setting your oven to 425°F (220°C) and allow it to heat fully.
- Cook Sausage: In a medium skillet over medium heat, cook the beef sausage until it is browned and fully cooked. Be sure to break it up into small crumbles as it cooks. Drain the excess grease.
- Prepare Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked sausage, softened cream cheese, and shredded Parmesan cheese. Mix well until thoroughly blended.
- Stuff Peppers: Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the sausage and cheese mixture into each halved and deseeded jalapeño pepper.
- Arrange and Bake: Place the stuffed jalapeños in a single layer on a baking sheet or in a baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the filling is bubbly and the tops are lightly browned.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly. Serve warm, optionally with a side of ranch dressing for dipping.
Helpful Tips
- Wear gloves when handling jalapeños to avoid skin irritation from the peppers’ oils.
- Use a spoon or small knife to scrape out the seeds and membranes if you prefer a milder flavor.
- Prep ahead by stuffing the peppers and storing them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Try broiling for the last 1-2 minutes of baking to get a crispy golden top.
Substitutions And Variations
- Cheese: Swap Parmesan for shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend.
- Meat: Use ground turkey or chorizo for a twist on the traditional beef sausage.
- Vegetarian: Skip the sausage and mix cream cheese with black beans, corn, and taco seasoning.
- Spice level: Use mini sweet peppers instead of jalapeños for a non-spicy alternative.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftover sausage stuffed jalapeños in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the peppers soggy.
Nutritional Information
Each serving of sausage stuffed jalapeños (approximately 2 pieces) contains:
- Calories: 362
- Total Fat: 34g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 58mg
- Sodium: 601mg
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 9g
- Vitamin C: 18mg
- Calcium: 105mg
- Iron: 1mg
- Potassium: 199mg
Serving Suggestions
- Serve alongside a platter of assorted dips like guacamole, salsa, and sour cream.
- Pair with tortilla chips and a pitcher of margaritas for a Tex-Mex inspired party spread.
- Garnish with chopped green onions or fresh cilantro for a burst of color and flavor.
- Include them in your game day or holiday appetizer menu.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sausage Stuffed Jalapeños
Can I make sausage stuffed jalapeños ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare them up to 24 hours in advance. Just cover and refrigerate, then bake right before serving.
Can I freeze stuffed jalapeños? Absolutely. After baking, let them cool completely, then freeze in a single layer. Reheat in the oven at 375°F until hot and crispy.
Are these very spicy? Jalapeños can vary in heat. Taking out the seeds and inner membranes greatly reduces their spiciness.
Can I grill them instead of baking? Yes! Grill on medium heat for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the filling is hot and the peppers are slightly charred.
Conclusion
Thank you so much for stopping by and exploring this sausage stuffed jalapeños recipe! I absolutely love how simple yet flavorful these are—they’re a guaranteed hit every time I serve them. Whether you’re hosting a party, bringing a dish to a potluck, or just treating yourself to something delicious, these spicy little bites are sure to satisfy. I hope you enjoy every cheesy, savory bite. Happy cooking, and thank you for being part of this food-loving community!
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Sausage Stuffed Jalapeños
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 24 stuffed jalapeño halves 1x
Description
These sausage stuffed jalapeños are a cheesy, spicy, and crowd-pleasing appetizer. Perfect for parties, game day, or holidays, they combine creamy cheese, savory sausage, and fresh jalapeños baked to bubbly perfection.
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef sausage
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
1 lb large fresh jalapeño peppers, halved and deseeded
8 oz ranch dressing (optional, for dipping)
Instructions
- Preheat Your Oven: Begin by setting your oven to 425°F (220°C) and allow it to heat fully.
- Cook Sausage: In a medium skillet over medium heat, cook the beef sausage until it is browned and fully cooked. Be sure to break it up into small crumbles as it cooks. Drain the excess grease.
- Prepare Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked sausage, softened cream cheese, and shredded Parmesan cheese. Mix well until thoroughly blended.
- Stuff Peppers: Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the sausage and cheese mixture into each halved and deseeded jalapeño pepper.
- Arrange and Bake: Place the stuffed jalapeños in a single layer on a baking sheet or in a baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the filling is bubbly and the tops are lightly browned.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly. Serve warm, optionally with a side of ranch dressing for dipping.
Notes
Use gloves when handling jalapeños.
Make ahead: stuff peppers and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
Swap Parmesan for cheddar or Monterey Jack for variety.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 stuffed jalapeños
- Calories: 362
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Protein: 9g