Every dad deserves cheesy, porky stuffed jalapenos

ALISON LADMAN

Spicy, cheesy and porky. You really can't go wrong with stuffed jalapeno peppers for Father's Day.

They work perfectly as a precursor to a grilled entree or on a platter of other savory munchies while watching the game. Use whatever sausage you (or Dad) prefer. We like the zip of a hot sausage, but a sweet sausage works well, too. If you're looking for even less heat, you can substitute baby bell peppers in place of the jalapenos.

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CHEESY SAUSAGE-STUFFED JALAPENOS

Start to finish: 30 minutes

Servings: 6

4 ounces cream cheese, softened

1/2 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese

1/2 teaspoon ground cumin

1/2 teaspoon chili powder

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

4 ounces sausage, cooked and crumbled

2 scallions, green and white parts, chopped

6 jalapeno peppers, halved lengthwise, seeds removed

2 tablespoons butter, melted

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs

Heat the oven to 400 F. Spray a rimmed baking sheet with cooking spray.

In a medium bowl, stir together the cream cheese, cheddar, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, sausage and scallions. Spoon the mixture into the jalapenos halves, then arrange them on the prepared baking sheet.

In a small bowl, stir together the butter, smoked paprika and panko. Spoon the panko mixture onto the filling in the jalapenos. Bake for 15 minutes, or until bubbly and golden.

Nutrition information per serving: 230 calories; 180 calories from fat (78 percent of total calories); 20 g fat (10 g saturated; 0 g trans fats); 55 mg cholesterol; 7 g carbohydrate; 1 g fiber; 1 g sugar; 7 g protein; 270 mg sodium.

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EDITOR'S NOTE: Alison Ladman is a recipe developer for the AP. Follow her on Twitter at https://twitter.com/CrustAndCrumbCo