Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Slice each jalapeno in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes.
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground sausage until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked sausage, cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, and onion powder until well blended.
Spoon the sausage mixture into each jalapeno half, pressing gently to fill.
Arrange the stuffed jalapenos on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the jalapenos are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Variations & Tips
For a smoky touch, try grilling the filled jalapenos instead of baking them. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, like pepper jack or gouda, to add a unique flavor twist. If you prefer a bit more spice, leave a few seeds in each jalapeno, or simply choose a hotter variety. You could also wrap each stuffed jalapeno with a slice of bacon for an extra indulgent treat. These bites can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge, ready to bake just before serving.
