Why These Vegan Jalapeño Poppers Are a Must-Try!

If y’all love spicy, cheesy, crispy bites, then these Vegan Jalapeño Poppers are about to be your new favorite snack!

Crunchy, creamy, and packed with flavor

Totally dairy-free and plant-based

Make them with or without plant-based meat!

Baked, not fried—so they’re lighter but still crispy!

Perfect for game days, parties, or an anytime snack! Pair with the BEST Vegan Ranch!

Whether you want a classic cheesy stuffed jalapeño or a meatier, protein-packed version, this recipe lets you customize it to fit your cravings!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Jalapeño Poppers:

•10 large jalapeños, halved and deseeded

•1 cup dairy-free cream cheese(store-bought or homemade)

•1/2 cup shredded vegan cheddar cheese

•1/2 tsp garlic powder

•1/2 tsp onion powder

•1/4 tsp smoked paprika

•1 tbsp nutritional yeast (optional for extra cheesiness)

•1 tbsp chopped fresh chives or green onions

Want to Add Plant-Based Meat? (Optional)

•1/2 cup your favorite plant-based meat crumbles (Beyond Meat, Impossible, or homemade lentil/walnut mix)

•1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking plant-based meat)

For the Crispy Coating:

•1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (or gluten-free breadcrumbs)

•1/4 cup crushed tortilla chips (for extra crunch, optional, I used chili lime flavored chips!)

•1/2 tsp smoked paprika

•1/4 tsp salt

•1/4 cup unsweetened plant milk(for binding)

Optional Toppings:

•Chopped fresh cilantro

•Vegan ranch or chipotle mayo for dipping

5 Easy Steps to Make Vegan Jalapeño Poppers

Step 1: Cook the Plant-Based Meat (If Using)

Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add plant-based meat crumbles and cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally. If using a homemade lentil or walnut crumble, season with a pinch of garlic powder, smoked paprika, and salt for extra flavor.

Step 2: Prep the Jalapeños

Slice each jalapeño in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes. (Tip: Wear gloves to avoid spicy hands!)

Step 3: Make the Creamy Filling

In a bowl, mix dairy-free cream cheese, shredded vegan cheddar, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, nutritional yeast, and chopped chives. Stir in the cooked plant-based meat (if using) until well combined.

Step 4: Stuff & Coat the Jalapeños

Using a spoon, generously stuff each jalapeño half with the cheesy, plant-based meat mixture.

In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs, crushed tortilla chips, smoked paprika, and salt.

Dip each stuffed jalapeño into plant milk, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture for extra crispiness.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden & Serve!

Arrange the poppers on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes, or until golden and crispy as desired.

Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with vegan ranch, chipotle mayo, or guacamole for dipping!

Pro Tips for the BEST Stuffed Vegan Jalapeño Poppers

Want them spicier? Keep some seeds in or add a pinch of cayenne to the filling!

Air Fryer Option: Air fry at 375°F for 10-12 minutes for a crispier finish!

Make Ahead: Stuff the jalapeños and refrigerate them uncooked for up to 24 hours, then bake when ready.

Meat-Free Version? Skip the plant-based meat and go with the classic cheesy stuffed version—it’s just as delicious!

Try These for Game Day & Let Me Know What You Think!

These crispy, cheesy, and bold jalapeño poppers are a guaranteed hit—whether you go meaty or meat-free!

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