Arizona Skillet-Grilled Jalapeño Poppers

Introduction

Get ready to fire up your Arteflame grill for these incredible Arizona-style skillet-grilled jalapeño poppers. Stuffed with rich, melted cheese and cooked to perfection on the flat griddle cooktop, these poppers deliver a smoky, spicy punch with a creamy, buttery finish. The different heat zones of the Arteflame allow you to achieve an amazing char without burning, ensuring perfect results every time. No need for a pot or pan—just grill these right on the cooktop for maximum flavor.

Ingredients

• 12 fresh jalapeños
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 4 oz sharp cheddar cheese, grated
• 4 oz pepper jack cheese, grated
• 6 strips of bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tbsp butter, melted
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up your Arteflame grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them in the center of the Arteflame grill.
2. Stack firewood over the soaked napkins and light the paper.
3. Wait about 20 minutes until the cooktop is evenly heated.

Step 2: Prepare the jalapeños

1. Slice each jalapeño in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes.
2. In a bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, cheddar cheese, pepper jack cheese, bacon crumbles, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Stuff each jalapeño half with the cheese mixture.

Step 3: Grill the jalapeño poppers

1. Lightly coat the griddle cooktop with melted butter.
2. Place the stuffed jalapeños cut-side up closer to the center of the Arteflame cooktop for the best heat level.
3. Grill for 8-10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and the jalapeños have a slight char.

Step 4: Serve and enjoy

1. Carefully remove the jalapeño poppers from the grill.
2. Let them cool slightly before serving.
3. Enjoy immediately!

Tips

• Use fresh, firm jalapeños for easier stuffing.
• If you prefer extra crispy bacon, consider adding a sprinkle of cooked bacon bits on top before serving.
• Control the grill’s heat zones by moving the poppers closer or further from the center as needed.
• For an extra smoky flavor, add a wood chunk to the grill while cooking.

Variations

• Honey-Glazed Poppers: Drizzle honey over the poppers before serving to add sweetness that balances the spice.
• Chorizo-Stuffed Poppers: Replace bacon with cooked chorizo for extra depth and heat.
• BBQ Cheese Poppers: Mix BBQ sauce into the cheese filling for a smoky, tangy bite.
• Loaded Poppers: Add finely diced grilled onions and tomatoes for a Tex-Mex twist.
• Blue Cheese Buffalo Poppers: Substitute cheddar with blue cheese and drizzle with buffalo sauce for a bold, spicy kick.

Conclusion

These Arizona-style skillet-grilled jalapeño poppers are the perfect way to enjoy bold flavors with ease on the Arteflame grill. With its high-heat griddle and multiple heat zones, you can achieve deliciously melted cheese and a crispy, charred jalapeño without burning. Try the variations and share these poppers with friends and family at your next cookout.

Best pairings

• Smoky grilled steak or chicken
• A chilled Mexican lager or IPA
• Creamy guacamole and fresh tortilla chips
• Grilled corn on the cob with butter
• BBQ ribs or pulled pork sandwiches