Jalapeno Poppers with Cream Cheese

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Cream Cheese
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 poppers
Ingredients: 12 large jalapenos; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp onion powder; 1/4 tsp smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional); Olive oil spray

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making these Jalapeno Poppers with Cream Cheese for gatherings or just a cozy night at home. The spicy kick from the jalapenos combined with the creamy, rich filling makes for a delightful snack that everyone enjoys. Preparing them is quite simple, and you can even customize the filling to suit your taste preferences. I often make a double batch because they disappear quickly! If you’re looking for something that packs a flavor punch and is easy to prepare, you’ll want to give these a try.

Created by

Bethany Clarke

Last updated on 2026-01-06T10:25:14.416Z

When I first tried making jalapeno poppers, I was surprised at how easily they came together. By carefully selecting fresh jalapenos and using a blend of cheeses, I was able to achieve a perfect balance of heat and creaminess. One key tip I learned is to remove all the seeds and membranes from the peppers to control the spice level, making them enjoyable for everyone.

After several trials, I finally found the right mix of cream cheese and shredded cheese that not only holds its shape but also melts beautifully while baking. I love experimenting with different herbs and spices to jazz up the filling, but the classic combination always wins in my household!

        Why You'll Love These Jalapeno Poppers
        Spicy and creamy filling that satisfies cravings
Customizable with different cheeses and spices
Perfect for parties, game days, or a cozy snack
Quick to prepare and bake, ready in just 35 minutes

      

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh jalapenos is essential for achieving the right balance of heat and flavor in your Jalapeno Poppers. Look for firm, glossy peppers without soft spots or blemishes. The freshness not only enhances the overall taste but also contributes to the crunchiness of the final dish. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can choose larger jalapenos, which tend to have a milder heat than their smaller counterparts.

Moreover, the quality of the cream cheese and cheddar cheese matters significantly. Opting for block cheese that you shred yourself often results in a creamier and more flavorful filling compared to pre-shredded cheese, which contains anti-caking agents. The freshly shredded cheese melts beautifully, ensuring a smooth and cohesive filling that adheres well to the jalapenos.

Cooking Technique for Perfect Poppers

The baking technique is just as important as the ingredients used in your Jalapeno Poppers. When arranging the stuffed jalapenos on the baking sheet, make sure they are not too crowded. This allows for even cooking and ensures that the bottoms crisp up slightly, adding an enjoyable texture. If you notice your filling bubbling over, it’s a sign that the poppers are cooking well, but do keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time to prevent burning.

To enhance the flavor and texture, I recommend adding a touch of smoked paprika, which complements the smokiness of the peppers. For a bolder twist, consider incorporating crumbled bacon into the filling or draping a thin layer of shredded cheese on top during the last few minutes of baking. This will create a beautiful golden crust and intensify the cheesy goodness.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start:

Ingredients for Jalapeno Poppers

12 large jalapenos
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/4 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
Olive oil spray

Ensure all your ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make the perfect jalapeno poppers:

Prep the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Wearing gloves, slice jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove seeds and membranes.

Make the Filling

In a medium bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth.

Stuff the Jalapenos

Spoon the cheese mixture into each jalapeno half, pressing down slightly to ensure they are well-filled.

Add Breadcrumbs (Optional)

If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top of each filled jalapeno for added crunch.

Bake

Arrange the stuffed jalapenos on a baking sheet, spray with a little olive oil, and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the filling is bubbly.

Let them cool slightly before serving with your favorite dipping sauce.

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor kick, try adding chopped cooked bacon to the filling or experiment with different types of cheese. Serve with ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

These Jalapeno Poppers are fantastic for meal prep! You can prepare them in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes them a great option for last-minute gatherings or busy weeknights. If you're looking to store them longer, consider freezing the stuffed jalapenos before baking. Just flash freeze them on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top bag for up to three months.

When you're ready to bake frozen poppers, simply preheat your oven and add a few extra minutes to the cooking time. Bake from frozen for about 20-25 minutes, keeping an eye on them until they are bubbly and golden. This ensures that you can always have a tasty, warm snack on hand without any fuss.

Serving Suggestions

For a delightful presentation, serve your Jalapeno Poppers with a variety of dipping sauces. Options like ranch dressing, spicy salsa, or a zesty garlic aioli can complement the spicy kick of the jalapenos and provide a refreshing balance to the richness of the filling. Arrange them on a platter with some crunchy vegetables for a colorful and inviting look.

If you’re hosting a game day or a casual get-together, consider pairing these poppers with drinks that can quench the heat, such as cold beer or tangy margaritas. The creamy filling and spicy peppers make for a happy match with something refreshing, rounding off the snacking experience beautifully.

Variations and Customizations

Feel free to customize the filling of your Jalapeno Poppers to match your personal tastes or dietary needs. For a spicy twist, add a spoonful of diced green chiles or jalapeno slices to the cream cheese mixture. Alternatively, if you're looking for a lower-fat option, consider using a blend of low-fat cream cheese and Greek yogurt for creaminess without the extra calories.

For a unique flavor profile, experiment with different cheeses in the filling. Creamy goat cheese or tangy feta can offer an exciting change from the traditional cheddar. Adding fresh herbs like chopped cilantro or chives also brings a fresh element to the filling. Don’t hesitate to turn these poppers into a culinary adventure that suits your palate!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these jalapeno poppers ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the poppers and refrigerate them for a few hours before baking. Just remember to adjust the baking time if they're cold from the fridge.

→ What can I substitute for cream cheese?

You can use mascarpone cheese or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative if you'd like to change it up.

→ Are jalapeno poppers spicy?

The heat depends on the variety of jalapenos you use and how many seeds you leave in. Removing the seeds and membranes will greatly reduce the spiciness.

→ Can I freeze these jalapeno poppers?

Absolutely! You can freeze them before baking. Just ensure they are properly wrapped to prevent freezer burn.