Sausage Stuffed Jalapenos

These sausage stuffed jalapenos have just the right amount of spice and plenty of savory goodness. They are rich and creamy on the inside and have a pleasant crunch from the pepper. An ideal appetizer to serve to watch football, grill burgers or just hang out with friends, these jalapeno peppers stuffed with sausage are easy to make and even easier to enjoy.

Once you have tried this basic sausage stuffed jalapenos recipe, you can try all sorts of unique twists. Now, let’s grab a few handfuls of peppers and get cooking.

Sausage Stuffed Jalapenos Ingredients

• Pork sausage: Opt for ground pork sausage rather than preformed links or patties when possible to achieve the right texture.
• Cream cheese: The cream cheese needs to be softened for this recipe, so get it out of the fridge at least half an hour before you plan to start cooking.
• Parmesan cheese: Freshly shredded Parmesan cheese is always best, but you can use dried Parmesan if that’s all you have on hand.
• Jalapeno peppers: You will halve the peppers lengthwise and then seed them, so larger peppers are ideal if you are able to hand-pick them.
• Ranch salad dressing: The ranch dressing is optional, but highly recommended both for its taste and because it cuts out some of the jalapeno spice.

Directions

Step 1: Cook the sausage and prepare the filling

In a large skillet, cook the sausage over medium heat until it’s no longer pink, then drain. Next, in a small bowl, combine the cream cheese and Parmesan, then fold in the sausage.

Step 2: Fill the peppers and then bake them

Spoon about a tablespoonful of the cheese and sausage filling into each jalapeno half. Place the filled peppers on two ungreased 13×9-inch baking dishes. Bake the peppers uncovered at 425°F until the filling is lightly browned and bubbly, which will take 15 to 20 minutes. Serve the peppers with ranch dressing if desired.

Sausage Stuffed Jalapenos Variations

• Add some cheddar: Adding half a cup of shredded cheddar cheese and taking out a half cup of shredded Parmesan cheese will introduce a delightfully tangy flavor.
• Try it with habaneros: If you are a true fan of spicy foods, try this recipe with habanero peppers instead of jalapenos.
• Use beef instead of pork: You can substitute the pork sausage with ground beef and make a fancy cheeseburger filling for the peppers.

How to Store Sausage Stuffed Jalapenos

Sadly, once they have been baked, these sausage stuffed jalapenos really won’t keep well. It’s best to enjoy them within an hour or less after they come out of the oven. That said, you can prepare them ahead of time and not bake them until you want to serve your appetizer. Cover the stuffed jalapenos tightly and store them in the fridge for up to two days before you bake them. Note that the baking time will be slightly longer if they go into the oven chilled.

Sausage Stuffed Jalapenos Tips

Consider wearing food gloves

It’s a good idea to wear disposable gloves when you are cutting jalapeno peppers, as the oils can burn your skin. Always wash your hands before touching your face, especially your eyes.

What should I serve with these sausage stuffed jalapeno poppers?

These sausage-stuffed jalapenos go well with other appetizers, such as mozzarella sticks, chicken wings and fresh veggies.

What other dips are good with these jalapenos?

Alongside the ranch dressing, consider a Thousand Island or blue cheese dressing, or try the sausage stuffed jalapenos with barbecue sauce or a chip dip.