Wonton Jalapeño Poppers are a fun twist on a classic dish! They have spicy jalapeños wrapped in crunchy wonton wrappers, making for a tasty snack or appetizer.
These little bites are spicy and cheesy, and perfect for sharing (if you want!). I love serving them with a cool dip to balance the heat—everyone always asks for more! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Wonton Wrappers: These are essential for the crunchy outer layer. If you can’t find wonton wrappers, you can use egg roll wrappers cut into smaller squares. You can also use phyllo dough if you’re feeling adventurous but adjust the frying time.
Cream Cheese: This is the base for the filling. If you want a lighter option, you can substitute it with Greek yogurt or a plant-based cream cheese for a vegan version. You can also add a bit of sour cream for a tangy taste!
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar adds flavor, but feel free to swap it with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack for extra spice, or a Mexican blend for variety. Cheese preferences are all about what you enjoy!
Jalapeños: These give the poppers their heat! If you prefer something milder, use bell peppers or roasted red peppers. For more spice, try habaneros or serranos, but be careful!
How Do I Seal Wontons Properly?
Sealing wontons is key to keeping the filling intact while frying. Here’s how to do it right:
- After spooning the filling onto the wonton wrapper, wet the edges lightly with water using your finger.
- Carefully fold the wrapper over the filling to create a triangle or bring the corners together.
- Press firmly around the edges to ensure they stick together, preventing leakage.
- Check for any holes or gaps and seal them well, as these can cause the filling to escape while cooking.
Taking this time to seal them properly will make your poppers look great and keep them deliciously cheesy inside!
How to Make Wonton Jalapeño Poppers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 24 wonton wrappers
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 jalapeño peppers, seeded and finely chopped
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Optional: ranch or sour cream for dipping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes of prep time and around 10 minutes for frying. You’ll be enjoying these delicious poppers in just about 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Filling:
In a medium bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped jalapeños, green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well combined and creamy.
2. Assemble the Poppers:
Lay out the wonton wrappers on a clean surface. Spoon about 1 teaspoon of the cream cheese mixture into the center of each wrapper. Be careful not to overfill them!
3. Seal the Wontons:
Moisten the edges of the wonton wrappers with a little bit of water; this will help them stick together. Fold the wrappers over the filling to form a triangle or bring the corners together to create a small pouch. Press the edges firmly to seal tightly and avoid any leaks while frying.
4. Heat the Oil:
In a deep skillet or fryer, heat the vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). The oil should be enough to fully submerge the wontons so they can fry evenly.
5. Fry the Poppers:
Carefully place the wontons into the hot oil in batches. Fry them for about 2-3 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy. Be sure not to overcrowd the pan so that they cook evenly.
6. Drain and Serve:
Once they are golden, use a slotted spoon to remove the fried wontons and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
7. Enjoy!
Serve the wonton jalapeño poppers warm. You can garnish them with chopped green onions and offer ranch dressing or sour cream on the side for dipping. They’re sure to be a hit!
Enjoy your crispy, cheesy, spicy Wonton Jalapeño Poppers!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar cheese adds great flavor, you can substitute it with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack for extra spice, or a Mexican blend for a twist. Experiment with what you love!
How Can I Make These Vegan?
To make vegan Wonton Jalapeño Poppers, simply swap out the cream cheese for a plant-based cream cheese alternative and use dairy-free cheese. Check the wonton wrappers for any egg or dairy ingredients to ensure they are vegan-friendly!
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the wontons a few hours in advance, cover them with a damp cloth to prevent drying, and store them in the fridge. Fry them just before serving for the best crunch!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, bake them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to regain their crispiness instead of microwaving.
