Grilled Jalapeño Cheddar Popcorn (Printable)
Smoky jalapeños and cheddar melted over crisp popcorn for irresistible bite-sized snacks.
# What You’ll Need:
→ Main
01 - 2 cups freshly popped popcorn
02 - 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
03 - 2 large jalapeño peppers, seeded and finely diced
04 - 3 large eggs
05 - 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
06 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
07 - 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
08 - 1/2 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
09 - Nonstick cooking spray
# How-To:
01 - In a large mixing bowl, combine freshly popped popcorn, cheddar cheese, and diced jalapeño. Stir until evenly distributed.
02 - Beat eggs in a separate bowl, then blend into popcorn mixture along with flour, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until fully incorporated.
03 - With lightly moist hands, portion mixture into golf ball-sized rounds and roll each piece in seasoned breadcrumbs until coated.
04 - Heat the grill to medium-high and coat a grill-safe tray or perforated pan with nonstick cooking spray.
05 - Arrange popcorn balls evenly on prepared tray. Grill for approximately 10 minutes, turning once midway, until crisp and golden brown.
06 - Transfer grilled bites to a platter and allow to cool slightly before serving warm.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- No deep frying needed these bites are grilled for a toasty char
- Kid friendly and grown up approved with customizable spice levels
- Uses everyday ingredients you probably already have
- Perfect finger food for gatherings and potlucks
02 -
- High protein and gluten free if you use gluten free panko
- Great for make ahead and reheating
- Best eaten warm but delicious at room temperature
03 -
- Always shred your cheese from the block it melts better and tastes fresher
- Avoid overpacking the popcorn clusters gentle pressure keeps things airy and crisp
- Let chilled bites hit a hot grill for that sought after crust and real grilled flavor
- If you want a bolder kick serve with a smoky hot sauce or blend chipotles into your dip