Few appetizers capture the spirit of a backyard gathering quite like these Cheese and Chorizo Stuffed Jalapeños. Packed with smoky chorizo, creamy melted cheese, and the bold kick of fresh jalapeños, this recipe is a crowd-pleasing favorite that brings authentic Mexican-inspired flavors to any table.
Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, game day party, family cookout, or festive gathering, these stuffed jalapeños deliver the perfect balance of spicy, savory, and cheesy goodness. The creamy cheese mellows the heat of the peppers, while the seasoned chorizo adds rich flavor that makes every bite irresistible.
Best of all, this easy stuffed jalapeño recipe requires just a handful of ingredients and comes together quickly, making it an excellent appetizer or side dish for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to prepare with simple ingredients.
- Loaded with cheesy, smoky, and spicy flavors.
- Perfect for parties, cookouts, and family gatherings.
- Naturally low in carbohydrates and high in flavor.
- Can be prepared ahead of time and broiled just before serving.
Ingredients
For the Stuffed Jalapeños
- 6–8 jalapeño peppers – Provide the perfect spicy vessel for the filling.
- 1 teaspoon olive oil – Helps cook the chorizo and enhance flavor.
- 5 ounces chorizo – Adds rich, savory, and slightly spicy flavor.
- 5 ounces Asadero cheese, coarsely grated – Melts beautifully and provides a creamy texture.
- 6–8 corn tortillas – Perfect for serving alongside the peppers.
- Fresh cilantro, chopped – Adds freshness and color.
- Kosher salt, to taste – Enhances all the flavors.
How to Make Cheese and Chorizo Stuffed Jalapeños
Prepare the Jalapeños
Fill a medium saucepan halfway with water and add the jalapeño peppers.
Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 5 minutes. The peppers should soften slightly and turn a pale green color.
Remove the pan from the heat and allow the peppers to cool in the water.
Cook the Chorizo
While the peppers cool, heat a skillet over medium heat.
Add a small amount of olive oil and the chorizo. Break the chorizo apart using a wooden spoon and cook until browned and fully cooked through.
Transfer the cooked chorizo to a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess grease.
Prepare the Peppers
Once the jalapeños are cool enough to handle, carefully cut a small slit lengthwise down the center of each pepper.
Leave about ¼ inch intact near both ends to help keep the filling inside.
Using a small spoon, carefully remove the seeds and membranes from inside each pepper.
Stuff the Jalapeños
Fill each jalapeño with shredded Asadero cheese.
Top the cheese with a generous amount of cooked chorizo, gently pressing the filling into the pepper.
Broil Until Golden
Arrange the stuffed peppers on a baking sheet.
Place under the broiler for 2–5 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and lightly bubbling.
Watch carefully to prevent burning.
Serve and Enjoy
Warm the corn tortillas and place the stuffed jalapeños on top.
Garnish with fresh cilantro and a sprinkle of kosher salt before serving.

Tips for Success
- Wear disposable gloves when handling jalapeños to avoid irritation.
- Remove all seeds and membranes for a milder heat level.
- Use freshly grated cheese for the best melting results.
- Keep a close eye on the peppers while broiling.
- Allow the chorizo to drain slightly before stuffing to prevent excess grease.
Equipment Needed
- Medium saucepan
- Large skillet
- Baking sheet
- Sharp knife
- Small spoon
- Cutting board
- Wooden spoon
- Tongs
Recipe Variations
Extra Cheesy Stuffed Jalapeños
Add extra cheese on top before broiling for a gooey, cheesy finish.
Bacon and Cheese Jalapeños
Mix cooked crispy beef bacon pieces into the filling for extra smoky flavor.
Vegetarian Stuffed Jalapeños
Replace the chorizo with black beans, corn, and sautéed vegetables.
Spicy Lovers Version
Leave some seeds inside the peppers and add extra chili flakes to the filling.
Tex-Mex Stuffed Jalapeños
Add diced tomatoes, green onions, and shredded cheddar cheese to the filling mixture.
Serving Suggestions
These Cheese and Chorizo Stuffed Jalapeños pair wonderfully with:
- Mexican rice
- Charro beans
- Grilled fajitas
- Fresh guacamole
- Pico de gallo
- Corn salad
- Grilled vegetables
- Warm tortillas
They also make a fantastic appetizer platter for parties and cookouts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are stuffed jalapeños very spicy?
The heat level depends on the peppers and how thoroughly you remove the seeds and membranes. Removing them creates a milder flavor.
Can I prepare these ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble the peppers up to a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator until ready to broil.
Can I freeze stuffed jalapeños?
Yes. Freeze them before broiling and cook directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What cheese works best for stuffed jalapeños?
Asadero cheese is excellent because it melts smoothly and has a mild, creamy flavor. Monterey Jack or mozzarella can also work well.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I cook them on the grill?
Absolutely. Place the stuffed peppers on a grill over indirect heat until the cheese melts and the peppers become tender.
Final Thoughts
These Cheese and Chorizo Stuffed Jalapeños are the ultimate combination of spicy peppers, creamy melted cheese, and savory chorizo. They’re simple enough for casual family dinners yet impressive enough for parties, cookouts, and special occasions.
Whether served as an appetizer, side dish, or part of a festive Mexican-inspired meal, these stuffed jalapeños are guaranteed to disappear quickly. Give them a try and enjoy the perfect balance of heat, creaminess, and bold flavor in every bite.
If you make this recipe, share your favorite variation and let everyone know how it turned out!
Print
Cheese and Chorizo Stuffed Jalapeños
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
Cheese and Chorizo Stuffed Jalapeños are a classic Mexican-inspired appetizer featuring tender jalapeños filled with melty queso asadero and savory chorizo. Perfect for cookouts, parties, and family gatherings.
Ingredients
- 6–8 jalapeño peppers
- 1 tsp olive oil
- 5 oz Mexican chorizo
- 5 oz queso asadero, coarsely grated
- 6–8 corn tortillas
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Kosher salt, to taste
Instructions
- Fill a medium saucepan halfway with water and bring to a boil.
- Add jalapeños and simmer for 5 minutes until they turn pale green.
- Remove from heat and allow peppers to cool in the water.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add chorizo and cook, breaking it apart, until browned.
- Cut a slit in each jalapeño, leaving the stem and tip intact.
- Carefully remove seeds and membranes with a small spoon.
- Stuff peppers with shredded queso asadero and top with cooked chorizo.
- Arrange on a baking sheet and place under the broiler for 2–5 minutes, until cheese melts.
- Serve over warm corn tortillas, garnished with cilantro and kosher salt.
Notes
- Wear gloves when handling jalapeños to avoid skin irritation.
- Most chorizo releases enough fat during cooking, so very little oil is needed.
- Serve with Mexican rice, charro beans, or grilled meats.
- Broil just until the cheese melts to avoid overcooking the peppers.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Broil
- Cuisine: Mexican