Blazing Monster Eyes
Transform your next Halloween party or game day gathering with these irresistible *Blazing Monster Eyes*, a devilishly delicious appetizer that’s equal parts spooky and indulgent! These jalapeño poppers pack a flavorful punch with their creamy filling made from cream cheese, shredded cheddar, and a blend of bold spices like smoked paprika and garlic powder. Topped with eerie black olive "pupils" and coated in a crispy panko breadcrumb shell, each bite delivers a tantalizing crunch followed by a fiery kick. Perfectly fried and finished in the oven for gooey, cheesy perfection, these savory treats are as fun to look at as they are to eat. Serve them warm for a crowd-pleasing snack that’s sure to be the highlight of your party spread!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 12 pieces Jalapeño peppers
- 8 oz Cream cheese
- 1 cup Shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp Garlic powder
- 1 tsp Onion powder
- 0.5 tsp Smoked paprika
- 6 pieces Black olives
- 0.5 cup Panko breadcrumbs
- 1 piece Egg
- 0.5 cup All-purpose flour
- 2 cups Vegetable oil
- 1 tsp Salt
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Slice the jalapeño peppers in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes using a small spoon to create hollow cavities. Set aside.
In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well until smooth.
Fill each jalapeño half with the cheese mixture, pressing it down slightly to create a smooth surface.
Slice black olives into small round pieces to create ‘pupil’ shapes for the monster eyes. Place one slice on top of the cheese filling in each jalapeño half to resemble an eyeball.
Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls. In the first bowl, place the flour. In the second bowl, beat the egg. In the third bowl, add the panko breadcrumbs.
Coat each stuffed jalapeño first in flour, then in the beaten egg, and finally in the panko breadcrumbs, ensuring they are fully coated.
Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or saucepan over medium heat to about 350°F (175°C).
Carefully fry the breaded jalapeños in small batches until golden brown and crisp, about 2-3 minutes per batch. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Transfer the fried jalapeños to a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 5-7 minutes to ensure the cheese inside is fully melted.
Allow the ‘Blazing Monster Eyes’ to cool slightly before serving. Arrange on a plate for a spooky and fiery presentation.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
5305 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 543.1 g | 696% | |
| Saturated Fat | 132.1 g | 660% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 274.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 546 mg | 182% | |
| Sodium | 4163 mg | 181% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 97.7 g | 36% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 8.4 g | 30% | |
| Total Sugars | 17.6 g | ||
| Protein | 60.3 g | 121% | |
| Vitamin D | 1.2 mcg | 6% | |
| Calcium | 1111 mg | 85% | |
| Iron | 6.9 mg | 38% | |
| Potassium | 910 mg | 19% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
