50 Jalapeno Recipes That Turn Up the Heat

From spicy salsas and cocktails to hot jalapeno poppers and cheesy bakes, these jalapeno recipes highlight the pepper’s heat, flavor and versatility.

Jalapenos bring more than just heat to a recipe. The little green chiles add grassy-flavor notes, a hint of sweetness and a steady kick that makes dishes unforgettable. These jalapeno recipes use the spice and taste of the peppers in all the right ways, from cheesy jalapeno popper-inspired recipes to spicy cocktails.

For me, the best recipes with jalapenos combine heat with comfort. Bite into a jalapeno popper and you’ll get a rush of crispy coating, creamy cheese and a peppery kick all at once. In fresh homemade salsa recipes, the pepper’s sharp flavor lifts tomatoes and herbs into something extraordinary you can’t stop dipping chips into. These spicy pepper recipes show how jalapenos can play both lead and supporting roles in the kitchen.

Choosing the right jalapeno makes all the difference. Smooth, firm peppers may have a milder flavor, while those with thin white or brown lines, called stretch marks, often pack more fire. Feel free to use more or less jalapeno to match the spice level of the peppers you are using. From weeknight dinners to standout spicy appetizers, these jalapeno dish ideas balance flavor with just the right amount of spice.

1/50

Jalapeno Popper Dip

Total Time:35 min
Servings:4 cups
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Here's a fantastic way to deliver all that blazing jalapeno popper taste without the work. Whenever I bring this jalapeno popper dip to a party, I'm always asked for the recipe. Serve with corn chips, tortilla chips or butter crackers. —Jennifer Wilke, Collinsville, Illinois
Nutrition Facts: 1/4 cup: 238 calories, 23g fat (8g saturated fat), 39mg cholesterol, 323mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 0 fiber), 4g protein.
2/50

Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers

Total Time:30 min
Servings:1 dozen
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: There’s no faster way to get a party started than with these bacon jalapeno poppers. Make them ahead and bake just before serving. Even the those who are intolerant of hot peppers will love them. —Dawn Onuffer, Crestview, Florida
Nutrition Facts: 1 stuffed pepper half: 66 calories, 5g fat (3g saturated fat), 15mg cholesterol, 115mg sodium, 3g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 0 fiber), 2g protein.
3/50

Jalapeno Mac and Cheese

Total Time:3 hours 25 min
Servings:15
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Many years ago after I had had knee surgery, a friend brought me a big casserole of mac and cheese along with the recipe. I have fiddled with the recipe over the years, most recently adding jalapenos at the request of my son. What an awesome spicy twist! —Teresa Gustafson, Elkton, Maryland
Nutrition Facts: 3/4 cup: 428 calories, 27g fat (13g saturated fat), 53mg cholesterol, 654mg sodium, 33g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 2g fiber), 14g protein.
4/50

Jalapeno Salsa

Total Time:25 min
Servings:1-1/2 cups
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: This homemade jalapeno salsa is ultra bright and zesty, perfect as a dip for chips or drizzled over your favorite tacos. The jalapenos bring the heat, cilantro adds verdant freshness, while fresh lime juice adds a pop of tangy flavor. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts: 1/4 cup: 57 calories, 5g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 297mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 1g protein.
5/50

Jalapeno Swiss Burgers

Total Time:30 min
Servings:4
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Mexican culture greatly influences our cuisine, and we eat a lot of spicy foods. In this recipe, the mellow flavor of Swiss cheese cuts the heat of the jalapenos. —Jeanine Richardson, Floresville, Texas
Nutrition Facts: 1 burger: 665 calories, 37g fat (16g saturated fat), 175mg cholesterol, 423mg sodium, 24g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 2g fiber), 55g protein.
6/50

Pickled Jalapeno Rings

Total Time:15 min
Servings:32
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: I started canning Hungarian hot and mild peppers with my dad every year, but they are hard to find in California, so I now make pickled jalapenos instead. They stay crunchy, unlike the mushy kind you find at the store. —Lou Kostura, Belmont, California
Nutrition Facts: 2 tablespoons: 5 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 180mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 0 protein.
7/50

Jalapeno Popper Stuffed Chicken Breasts

Contest Winner
Total Time:30 min
Servings:4
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: My husband is not crazy about chicken, but one of his favorite snacks is jalapeno poppers. So I created this fast dinnertime recipe to give the chicken plenty of flavor. He loves it cooked this way, and best of all is the quick cooking with little cleanup! —Donna Gribbins, Shelbyville, Kentucky
Nutrition Facts: 1 stuffed chicken breast: 518 calories, 33g fat (15g saturated fat), 171mg cholesterol, 1150mg sodium, 3g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 51g protein.
8/50

Cowboy Colada

Total Time:15 min
Servings:1 cocktail
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: This cowboy colada cocktail blends bold, spicy whiskey with creamy coconut and bright pineapple, striking that hot-meets-cool balance that keeps your taste buds guessing. —Kate McKiernan, Chicago, Illinois
Nutrition Facts: 1 cocktail: 204 calories, 2g fat (2g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 5mg sodium, 22g carbohydrate (20g sugars, 0 fiber), 0 protein.
9/50

Jalapeno Corn

Total Time:4 hours 15 min
Servings:8
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: This comforting and creamy corn side dish is appealing to almost everyone. It gets its spicy kick from jalapeno peppers.—Judy Carty, Wichita, Kansas
Nutrition Facts: 3/4 cup: 251 calories, 16g fat (10g saturated fat), 46mg cholesterol, 275mg sodium, 25g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 3g fiber), 6g protein.
10/50

Spicy Margarita

Total Time:10 min
Servings:1
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Add a pinch of heat to your favorite tequila cocktail with this spicy margarita. Muddled jalapeno and a rim of tajin add the spice, while the lime juice and simple syrup keep the refreshing, citrusy flavor. —Lauren Grant, Minneapolis, Minnesota
Nutrition Facts: 1 serving: 249 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 2mg sodium, 25g carbohydrate (23g sugars, 0 fiber), 0 protein.
11/50

Smoky Jalapenos

Total Time:55 min
Servings:14 appetizers
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: When I make these bacon-wrapped appetizers, there are no leftovers. They can also be made with mild banana peppers or yellow chili peppers. —Melinda Strable, Ankeny, Iowa
Nutrition Facts: 1 stuffed pepper half: 86 calories, 7g fat (3g saturated fat), 20mg cholesterol, 215mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 4g protein.
12/50

Cream of Jalapeno Soup

Total Time:35 min
Servings:1-1/2 quarts
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Combine invigorating jalapeno peppers with rich cream, tart lime juice and fresh cilantro for a soup that's luxurious and full of flavor. It's just right as a light lunch with warm tortillas, blue corn chips or sweet cornbread. —Lauren Habermehl, Pewaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts: 1 cup: 236 calories, 19g fat (12g saturated fat), 55mg cholesterol, 1037mg sodium, 9g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 1g fiber), 8g protein.
13/50

Guacamole

Total Time:10 min
Servings:2 cups
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Juicy tomatoes, spicy jalapeno pepper, tangy red onion and the refreshing juice from limes are mashed with creamy avocados to make a traditional and versatile guacamole dip. Put it on tacos and nachos, or pair it with plain ol' chips for an added flavor of richness. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts: 2 tablespoons: 31 calories, 3g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 76mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 1g fiber), 0 protein.
14/50

Jalapeno-Swiss Turkey Burgers

Total Time:25 min
Servings:4
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: These easy turkey burgers are extra juicy and loaded with flavor. I think the spicy jalapenos give it just the right level of heat, but feel free to adjust the amount to amp it up or tone it down. —Wanda Allende, Orlando, Florida
Nutrition Facts: 1 burger: 375 calories, 16g fat (6g saturated fat), 95mg cholesterol, 767mg sodium, 25g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 1g fiber), 33g protein.
15/50

Jalapeno & Cotija Cheese Potato Stack Pie

Contest Winner
Total Time:1 hour 10 min
Servings:8
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Pie isn't just for dessert anymore. Stacking thinly sliced potatoes with layers of minced jalapenos and crumbled Cotija cheese helps turn ordinary spuds into something truly spectacular—especially when served with salsa and sour cream. —Colleen Delawder, Herndon, Virginia
Nutrition Facts: 1 serving: 223 calories, 12g fat (7g saturated fat), 34mg cholesterol, 477mg sodium, 23g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 3g fiber), 7g protein.
16/50

Jalapeno Popper Corn Salad

Contest Winner
Total Time:40 min
Servings:8
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: I created this recipe for a wedding I was catering, and it's a good thing I made buckets of it, because I couldn't stop eating it! This chilled creamy salad combines all the best flavors of jalapeno poppers with the delicate sweetness of fresh corn. —Amanda Miller, Hutchinson, Kansas
Nutrition Facts: 3/4 cup: 476 calories, 40g fat (14g saturated fat), 47mg cholesterol, 616mg sodium, 18g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 2g fiber), 14g protein.
17/50

White Chili

Contest Winner
Total Time:50 min
Servings:7
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Years ago, as a time-starved college student, I got this wonderful recipe from my sister-in-law. She had made a big batch and served it to a crowd one night. It was a hit—and easy and quick. In all my years of cooking, I’ve never had another dish get so many compliments. —Laura Brewer, Lafayette, Indiana
Nutrition Facts: 1 cup: 334 calories, 16g fat (8g saturated fat), 81mg cholesterol, 1045mg sodium, 24g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 7g fiber), 22g protein.
18/50

Nacho Chicken

Total Time:45 min
Servings:10
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: I have been serving this rich and zippy chicken casserole for years, and it's always a favorite of my family and friends. It's sure to disappear quickly at potluck suppers too. —Thom Britton, Three Rivers, Michigan
Nutrition Facts: 1 cup: 496 calories, 27g fat (11g saturated fat), 81mg cholesterol, 1299mg sodium, 32g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 2g fiber), 29g protein.
19/50

Fiesta Scrambled Eggs

Total Time:30 min
Servings:6
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: I love to fix this spicy scrambled egg dish for friends and family. It’s almost a meal in itself, but I serve it with muffins or biscuits, fresh fruit juice and coffee. —Kay Kropff, Canyon, Texas
Nutrition Facts: 3/4 cup: 254 calories, 19g fat (7g saturated fat), 278mg cholesterol, 609mg sodium, 3g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 17g protein.
20/50

Green Enchilada Sauce

Total Time:35 min
Servings:12
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Elevate your chicken enchiladas with this all-natural, easy-to-make green sauce. Made with authentic ingredients like tomatillos, green chiles and garlic, it has a tangy and spicy profile that adds depth of flavor to your dish. —Julie Andrews, Rockford, Michigan
Nutrition Facts: 1/4 cup: 30 calories, 2g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 308mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 1g protein.
21/50

Fresh Fruit Salsa

Total Time:15 min
Servings:5 cups
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: This salad has all the bright colors and fresh flavors of summer. —Mary E. Relyea, Canastota, New York.
Nutrition Facts: 1/2 cup: 47 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 122mg sodium, 12g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 2g fiber), 1g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 fruit.
22/50

Southwestern Turkey Bake

Total Time:45 min
Servings:12
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: I make this turkey bake as a way to get my husband and nieces to eat their spinach. This creamy entree will fill you up fast. —Crystal Kolady, Henrietta, New York
Nutrition Facts: 1 piece: 464 calories, 28g fat (12g saturated fat), 106mg cholesterol, 773mg sodium, 23g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 3g fiber), 30g protein.
23/50

Thai Chicken Thighs

Total Time:5 hours 25 min
Servings:8
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: These very tender and moist chicken thighs come with a tangy peanut butter sauce that is irresistible. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts: 1 chicken thigh with 1/4 cup sauce (calculated without rice): 261 calories, 15g fat (4g saturated fat), 87mg cholesterol, 350mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 27g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 4 lean meat, 1 fat, 1/2 starch.
24/50

Jalapeno Popper Spread

Total Time:35 min
Servings:16
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: I've been told by fellow partygoers that this recipe tastes exactly like a jalapeno popper. I like that it can be made without much fuss. —Ariane McAlpine, Penticton, British Columbia
Nutrition Facts: 1/4 cup: 239 calories, 23g fat (9g saturated fat), 43mg cholesterol, 304mg sodium, 3g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 5g protein.
25/50

Jalapeno Popper Chicken Casserole

Total Time:40 min
Servings:8
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: These creamy enchiladas are likely to be as popular at your house as they are at mine. I have many requests for this recipe. For weddings, I place the recipe in a nice casserole dish to give as a gift. —Kaylin DeVries, Magna, Utah
Nutrition Facts: 1 serving: 701 calories, 53g fat (24g saturated fat), 116mg cholesterol, 1648mg sodium, 33g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 3g fiber), 22g protein.
26/50

Roasted Salsa

Total Time:25 min
Servings:32 (8 cups)
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Our family's all-time favorite salsa, this recipe is the reason we grow a huge garden every summer. We make gallons of it and share with our neighbors. You might find yourself eating it right out of the bowl with a spoon. —Donna Kelly, Orem, Utah
Nutrition Facts: 1/4 cup: 27 calories, 1g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 155mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 1g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 vegetable.
27/50

Chicken with Creamy Jalapeno Sauce

Total Time:25 min
Servings:4 (2 cups sauce)
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: My sister Amy came up with this recipe that makes standard chicken breasts a lot more exciting. My husband and I just love the wonderful sauce. —Molly Cappone, Lewis Center, Ohio
Nutrition Facts: 1 serving: 376 calories, 13g fat (5g saturated fat), 83mg cholesterol, 389mg sodium, 34g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 3g fiber), 30g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2 vegetable, 2 fat, 1-1/2 starch.
28/50

Jalapeno Cornbread

Total Time:35 min
Servings:8
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: If you’re from the South, you have to have a good cornbread recipe. Here’s a lightened-up version of my mom’s traditional cornbread that tastes just as delicious. —Debi Mitchell, Flower Mound, Texas
Nutrition Facts: 1 wedge: 180 calories, 4g fat (1g saturated fat), 4mg cholesterol, 261mg sodium, 32g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 2g fiber), 6g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 starch, 1 fat.
29/50

Buffalo Wing Poppers

Contest Winner
Total Time:40 min
Servings:40 appetizers
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: These buffalo chicken poppers combine the flavor of hot wings and jalapeño appetizers to make a snack greater than the sum of their parts. —Barbara Nowakowski, Mesa, Arizona
Nutrition Facts: 1 popper: 57 calories, 5g fat (2g saturated fat), 12mg cholesterol, 159mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 2g protein.
30/50

Jalapeno Ranch Dip

Total Time:10 min
Servings:2-1/4 cups
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Ranch dressing got its start on a real dude ranch in California. Punch up the western original with green salsa, green chiles, jalapenos and cilantro for more color and spice. Serve the dip along with your favorite wings to feed a crowd. —Lindsay Duke, Goodrich, Texas
Nutrition Facts: 1/4 cup (calculated without chicken wings): 252 calories, 26g fat (4g saturated fat), 12mg cholesterol, 502mg sodium, 3g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 1g protein.
31/50

Black Bean, Chorizo & Sweet Potato Chili

Total Time:6 hours 20 min
Servings:16 (4 quarts)
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Chili is one of my all-time favorite dishes. This recipe takes it to the next level by changing up the flavors and adding a surprise--sweet potatoes! —Julie Merriman, Seattle, Washington
Nutrition Facts: 1 cup: 263 calories, 9g fat (3g saturated fat), 25mg cholesterol, 823mg sodium, 33g carbohydrate (11g sugars, 6g fiber), 12g protein.
32/50

Grilled Pork with Avocado Salsa

Total Time:35 min
Servings:6
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: I love the zesty taste of this moist grilled tenderloin. The cumin, avocado and jalapeno give it southwestern flair. It's an easy, elegant way to prepare pork. —Josephine Devereaux Piro, Easton, Pennsylvania
Nutrition Facts: 3 ounces cooked pork with 1/3 cup salsa: 300 calories, 15g fat (3g saturated fat), 64mg cholesterol, 155mg sodium, 19g carbohydrate (10g sugars, 4g fiber), 24g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 starch, 3 lean meat, 2 fat.
33/50

Jalapeno Jelly

Total Time:30 min
Servings:7 half-pints
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: A jar of this sweet and spicy jelly is always warmly appreciated. To add an extra southwestern accent, I trim the lid with a snappy bandanna print fabric. —Lori McMullen, Victoria, Texas
Nutrition Facts: 2 tablespoons: 92 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 1mg sodium, 24g carbohydrate (23g sugars, 0 fiber), 0 protein.
34/50

Restaurant-Style Salsa

Contest Winner
Total Time:15 min
Servings:7 cups
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: With the help of my food processor, I can have fresh homemade salsa ready in just 15 minutes. The lime juice works wonders in bringing out all the flavors, and you can really taste the cilantro. —Amber Massey, Argyle, Texas
Nutrition Facts: 1/4 cup (calculated without chips): 42 calories, 2g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 381mg sodium, 6g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 2g fiber), 1g protein.
35/50

Refrigerator Jalapeno Dill Pickles

Total Time:20 min
Servings:about 4 dozen pickle spears
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: I’m passionate about making pickles. My husband is passionate about eating them. He's too impatient to let them cure on the shelf, so I found this quick recipe to make him happy. Add hotter peppers if you like. —Annie Jensen, Roseau, Minnesota
Nutrition Facts: 1 pickle spear: 4 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 222mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 0 protein.
36/50

Contest-Winning Watermelon Salsa

Contest Winner
Total Time:20 min
Servings:3 cups
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: I entered this recipe in a local fair, and it took first place! This is one of my favorite dishes because all the ingredients (except for the lime juice) came directly from my garden and beehives. —Carolyn Butterfield, Lake Stevens, Washington
Nutrition Facts: 1/4 cup: 22 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 1mg sodium, 6g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 0 fiber), 0 protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1/2 starch.
37/50

Cranberry Jalapeno Dip

Total Time:15 min
Servings:3 cups
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Everyone has a holiday appetizer 'greatest hit,' and this just may become yours. Fiery jalapenos create a bold contrast to tart and juicy cranberries, and cream cheese mellows out the heat for a balanced, refreshing bite. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts: 2 tablespoons: 82 calories, 7g fat (4g saturated fat), 19mg cholesterol, 109mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 1g fiber), 1g protein.
38/50

Sausage Stuffed Jalapenos

Total Time:35 min
Servings:44 appetizers
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: If you like foods that pack a bit of a punch, you’ll love these jalapeno poppers filled with sausage and cheese. This is one of my favorite recipes for parties. —Rachel Oswald, Greenville, Michigan
Nutrition Facts: 1 appetizer: 56 calories, 5g fat (2g saturated fat), 13mg cholesterol, 123mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 2g protein.
39/50

Jalapeno Popper Burgers

Contest Winner
Total Time:45 min
Servings:4
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: What do you get when you combine a jalapeno popper and a classic burger? This fantastic recipe! It takes the essential components of a popper and encases them in a juicy patty for a burst of flavor in every bite. —Jo Davison, Naples, Florida
Nutrition Facts: 1 burger: 879 calories, 58g fat (23g saturated fat), 204mg cholesterol, 1715mg sodium, 31g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 5g fiber), 59g protein.
40/50

Tex-Mex Summer Squash Casserole

Total Time:55 min
Servings:10
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Mild-flavored yellow squash gets a big boost from flavor-packed chiles, jalapenos and red onion. This side dish also works with zucchini. —Tommy Lombardo, Euclid, Ohio
Nutrition Facts: 3/4 cup: 143 calories, 8g fat (5g saturated fat), 27mg cholesterol, 420mg sodium, 12g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 2g fiber), 8g protein.
41/50

Creole Cornbread

Contest Winner
Total Time:1 hour
Servings:12
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Cornbread is a staple of Cajun and Creole cuisine. This version is an old favorite, and it really tastes wonderful. I found the recipe in the bottom of my recipe drawer. —Enid Hebert, Lafayette, Louisiana
Nutrition Facts: 1 piece: 272 calories, 14g fat (7g saturated fat), 68mg cholesterol, 551mg sodium, 26g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 2g fiber), 10g protein.
42/50

Quick Jalapeno Hush Puppies

Total Time:20 min
Servings:2-1/2 dozen
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: The crunchy exterior of these southern-style snacks is a nice contrast to the moist cornbread. Jalapeno peppers and hot sauce add a hint of heat. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts: 1 hush puppy: 56 calories, 3g fat (0 saturated fat), 14mg cholesterol, 94mg sodium, 7g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 1g fiber), 1g protein.
43/50

Mini Chicken Chimis with Jalapeno Cream Cheese

Total Time:45 min
Servings:1 dozen
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: These zippy chicken chimi bites bring a little heat to any fiesta. Serve them on their own as appetizers, or with rice and black beans for a satisfying meal. —Erika Monroe-Williams, Scottsdale, Arizona
Nutrition Facts: 1 mini chimichanga with 2 teaspoons jalapeno cream cheese: 276 calories, 15g fat (5g saturated fat), 39mg cholesterol, 394mg sodium, 22g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 14g protein.
44/50

Chicken Tortilla Soup

Total Time:30 min
Servings:8 (2-1/2 quarts)
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: This chicken tortilla soup is as good as (if not better than) any I've had in a restaurant. I get so many compliments when I serve it: you will, too. —Laura Black Johnson, Largo, Florida
Nutrition Facts: 1-1/4 cups: 200 calories, 8g fat (2g saturated fat), 55mg cholesterol, 941mg sodium, 9g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 2g fiber), 22g protein.
45/50

Jumbo Jalapeno Cheddar Rolls

Total Time:55 min
Servings:1 dozen
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Add some excitement to your buffet with these colorful rolls. The cheddar cheese and jalapeno flavors are mild, but everyone loves the zesty taste. —Linda Foreman, Locust Grove, Oklahoma
Nutrition Facts: 1 roll: 368 calories, 9g fat (5g saturated fat), 77mg cholesterol, 542mg sodium, 57g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 2g fiber), 14g protein.
46/50

Grilled Jalapenos

Total Time:25 min
Servings:2 dozen
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: When barbecuing for friends at home, I also use the grill to serve up hot appetizers. These crowd-pleasing stuffed peppers have a bit of bite. They were concocted by my son. —Catherine Hollie, Cleveland, Texas
Nutrition Facts: 1 stuffed pepper: 97 calories, 9g fat (3g saturated fat), 17mg cholesterol, 179mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 3g protein.
47/50

Chicago-Style Hot Giardiniera

Contest Winner
Total Time:30 min
Servings:8 cups
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: I have been living in Chicago for many years and have grown to love the spicy giardiniera served at restaurants. So I developed my own to use at home. We love it on everything from eggs to sandwiches and even pizza! —Andrea Quiroz, Chicago, Illinois
Nutrition Facts: 1/4 cup: 80 calories, 8g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 174mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 0 protein.
48/50

Mango Jalapeno Sloppy Joe Sliders

Total Time:35 min
Servings:12
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: I've loved sloppy joes since I can remember. In an attempt to give them a makeover, I thought of this idea, which was a big hit with my family, friends and co-workers! If you can't find a mango, chopped pineapple would work just as well. —Shea Goldstein, Royal Palm Beach, Florida
Nutrition Facts: 1 slider: 443 calories, 31g fat (10g saturated fat), 66mg cholesterol, 870mg sodium, 28g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 2g fiber), 14g protein.
49/50

Jalapeno Green Beans

Total Time:25 min
Servings:4
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: This simple green bean dish gets a bit of a kick from jalapeno pepper. If you don't like things too spicy, reduce the amount of jalapeno by half—or eliminate it completely. —Deirdre Cox, Kansas City, Missouri
Nutrition Facts: 1/2 cup: 106 calories, 7g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 303mg sodium, 11g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 4g fiber), 2g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 fat, 1 vegetable.
50/50

Taylor's Jalapeno Poppers

Total Time:40 min
Servings:6
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: If you own a barbecue joint like I do, you pretty much dream about barbecue in your sleep. Jalapeno poppers are also one of my favorite appetizers, and this recipe is a great way to combine those foods. They’re very popular on the menu at my restaurant. Try your own variation by stuffing the peppers with cooked chicken or beef. —Taylor Hicks, Birmingham, Alabama
Nutrition Facts: 1 appetizer: 209 calories, 8g fat (4g saturated fat), 30mg cholesterol, 870mg sodium, 23g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 1g fiber), 10g protein.

Jalapeno Recipes FAQ

What can I do with a lot of jalapenos?

Making pickled vegetables is a great way to use and preserve vegetables, including jalapenos. They can be stuffed into tacos, sandwiches and quesadillas or scattered over nachos or a bowl of chili. You can also roast fresh jalapenos to blend into a spicy green salsa, or invite friends over and make a big batch of bacon-wrapped jalapeno poppers.

What is the best way to cook jalapenos?

There are many ways to cook jalapenos, depending on the flavor and texture you want. Baking softens the peppers and mellows their vegetal taste, while sauteing keeps them crisp-tender and bright. Roasting over an open flame or under a broiler adds smokiness and char, deepening their earthy flavor. Wear food-safe gloves when chopping jalapenos or wash your hands well afterwards to avoid transferring their spicy oils into your eyes.

Can you eat raw jalapenos?

You can absolutely eat raw jalapenos, just like other fresh peppers. They’ll have a juicy snap and a hint of grassiness, similar to a green bell pepper. Their sharp spice is part of the appeal of eating them raw. To reduce their fiery burn, halve them lengthwise and trim out the seeds and ribs. Try them in healthy summer salads or as a crunchy topping on air-fryer nachos and shrimp tacos.