Name: Pimento Cheese Poppers with Jalapeo Ranch.
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 batch pimento cheese ((preferably cold from the fridge)); 1 cup all-purpose flour; 2 large eggs ((lightly beaten)); 1 cup seasoned panko breadcrumbs; a few inches vegetable or canola oil ((for frying)); 1 whole jalapeño pepper ((seeded and diced)); 1 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream; ½ cup mayonnaise; ½ cup milk; 3 tablespoons fresh chives ((or 1 tablespoon dried chives)); 2 tablespoons fresh dill ((or 2 teaspoons dried dill weed)); 1 tablespoon fresh parsley ((or 1 teaspoon dried parsley)); 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon onion powder; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon pepper; 2 teaspoons smoked paprika

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If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s sure to impress at your next gathering, look no further than these Pimento Cheese Poppers with Jalapeño Ranch. These bite-sized delights are filled with creamy, tangy pimento cheese and coated in a crispy panko crust, making them irresistible. The addition of jalapeño ranch adds a zesty kick that perfectly complements the rich cheese filling. Whether you’re hosting a game day party, a casual get-together, or simply indulging in a cozy night at home, these poppers will be the star of the show. Let’s dive into the details of making this delicious treat!

Reasons to Love Pimento Cheese Poppers with Jalapeo Ranch.

There are numerous reasons to adore Pimento Cheese Poppers with Jalapeño Ranch. First and foremost, they’re incredibly easy to make, requiring only a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time. The combination of creamy pimento cheese and the crunch of panko breadcrumbs creates a delightful texture that will make your taste buds dance. Additionally, the spicy jalapeño ranch sauce adds a burst of flavor that elevates these poppers to new heights. They are versatile too—perfect as an appetizer, snack, or even a party food. Plus, they can be made ahead of time and frozen, making them a convenient option for busy days.

What’s in the Bowl

To whip up a batch of these scrumptious Pimento Cheese Poppers with Jalapeño Ranch, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 batch pimento cheese (preferably cold from the fridge)
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 eggs, lightly beaten
1 cup seasoned panko breadcrumbs
Vegetable or canola oil for frying (you will need a few inches in a saucepan)
1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and diced
1 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
½ cup mayonnaise
½ cup milk
3 tablespoons fresh chives or 1 tablespoon dried chives
2 tablespoons fresh dill or 2 teaspoons dried dill weed
1 tablespoon fresh parsley or 1 teaspoon dried parsley
2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon pepper
2 teaspoons smoked paprika

Kitchen Gear Checklist

Before you get started, make sure you have the following kitchen tools on hand:

Large mixing bowl – for combining your ingredients.
Pan or deep fryer – for frying the poppers.
Whisk – for beating the eggs.
Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient measurements.
Cooking thermometer – to ensure your oil is at the right temperature for frying.
Slotted spoon – for removing the poppers from the oil.
Paper towels – for draining excess oil after frying.

Mastering Pimento Cheese Poppers with Jalapeo Ranch.: How-To

Ready to make some Pimento Cheese Poppers with Jalapeño Ranch? Follow these easy steps:

Step 1:

Begin by preparing the pimento cheese if you haven’t already. It’s best to use chilled pimento cheese straight from the fridge for easy handling.

Step 2:

In a large bowl, place the all-purpose flour. In another bowl, pour in the lightly beaten eggs. In a third bowl, add the seasoned panko breadcrumbs.

Step 3:

Take a small amount of pimento cheese and form it into a ball, about the size of a golf ball. Repeat this process until you’ve used all the pimento cheese.

Step 4:

Coat each cheese ball first in the flour, then dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally roll it in the panko breadcrumbs until fully coated. Set aside on a plate.

Step 5:

In a deep saucepan, heat a few inches of vegetable or canola oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).

Step 6:

Carefully drop a few poppers into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 3-4 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.

Step 7:

Using a slotted spoon, remove the poppers from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 8:

While the poppers are frying, prepare the jalapeño ranch. In a bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt or sour cream, mayonnaise, milk, diced jalapeño, chives, dill, parsley, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika until smooth and well combined.

Step 9:

Serve the Pimento Cheese Poppers warm, accompanied by the jalapeño ranch for dipping. Enjoy the burst of flavors with each bite!

Swap Guide

Looking to customize your Pimento Cheese Poppers with Jalapeño Ranch? Here are some great swaps:

For a spicier version, leave some seeds in the jalapeño or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Use a different cheese blend for the pimento cheese, such as pepper jack for extra heat.
Swap out the Greek yogurt for a dairy-free yogurt alternative if you’re looking for a vegan option.
Experiment with different herbs in the ranch, such as cilantro or basil, for a twist on flavors.
If you don’t have panko breadcrumbs, regular breadcrumbs will work, but the texture may differ slightly.

Notes on Ingredients

When making Pimento Cheese Poppers with Jalapeño Ranch, the quality of your ingredients can greatly affect the overall flavor. Opt for high-quality cheese and fresh herbs to bring out the best in your dish. Additionally, using fresh jalapeños will enhance the zesty flavor of the ranch sauce. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the amount of jalapeño or omit it entirely.

Freezer-Friendly Notes

If you want to prepare these poppers in advance, they can be frozen before frying. After coating them in panko, place the poppers on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply fry them straight from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the frying time. This makes Pimento Cheese Poppers with Jalapeño Ranch a perfect make-ahead snack!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bake these poppers instead of frying them?

Yes, you can bake them! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the poppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spray them lightly with cooking spray and bake for about 15-20 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway through.

How do I store leftover poppers?

Store any leftover Pimento Cheese Poppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or air fryer to restore their crispiness.

Can I make the jalapeño ranch in advance?

Absolutely! You can make the jalapeño ranch a day ahead of time. Just store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. Give it a good stir before serving to combine the flavors.

What can I serve with Pimento Cheese Poppers aside from jalapeño ranch?

These poppers pair well with a variety of dips, such as buffalo sauce, honey mustard, or even a simple marinara sauce for a different twist.

Bring It to the Table

Pimento Cheese Poppers with Jalapeño Ranch are perfect for sharing and are sure to ignite conversation around the table. Their delightful crunch and creamy filling are complemented perfectly by the zesty dip, making them an instant favorite. Whether served at a party or as a delicious snack while binge-watching your favorite show, they will undoubtedly be a hit. So gather your friends and family, and dive into a plate of these tantalizing poppers. Enjoy every crispy, cheesy bite!