Elevate your appetizer game with these irresistible Pesto Hots! Featuring jalapeño peppers stuffed with a creamy blend of basil pesto, cream cheese, and Parmesan, this recipe strikes the perfect balance of spicy, savory, and indulgent. Each pepper is topped with a golden breadcrumb-Parmesan crust, adding a delightful crunch to every bite. With just 15 minutes of prep and 20 minutes in the oven, these baked jalapeño poppers make a quick and crowd-pleasing snack or party starter. Serve them warm and watch as your guests savor the bold flavors and perfect texture of this creative twist on classic jalapeño poppers.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Slice each jalapeño in half lengthwise and carefully remove the seeds and membranes using a small spoon. Set aside.
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, basil pesto, and half of the Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup). Mix until smooth and creamy.
Spoon or pipe the pesto-cheese mixture into the hollowed-out jalapeño halves, filling them generously but avoiding overflow.
In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, remaining Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup), garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
Brush the tops of the stuffed jalapeños with a little olive oil, then sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over each pepper.
Place the stuffed jalapeños on the prepared baking sheet and drizzle the tops with the remaining olive oil.
Bake in the preheated oven for 18–22 minutes, or until the breadcrumbs are golden and the peppers are tender.
Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Serve warm as a delectable appetizer or snack.
Calories |
2118 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 160.6 g | 206% | |
| Saturated Fat | 73.0 g | 365% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 6.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 329 mg | 110% | |
| Sodium | 3934 mg | 171% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 114.8 g | 42% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 8.8 g | 31% | |
| Total Sugars | 25.1 g | ||
| Protein | 68.0 g | 136% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 1354 mg | 104% | |
| Iron | 6.8 mg | 38% | |
| Potassium | 954 mg | 20% | |
*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.