Jalapeno Poppers with Cream Cheese

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Cream Cheese
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 24 poppers
Ingredients: 12 fresh jalapenos; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/4 tsp smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional); Cooking spray or oil for greasing

Highlighted under: Feel-Good Plates

I absolutely love making Jalapeno Poppers with Cream Cheese for gatherings and family dinners. There's something incredibly satisfying about slicing open those vibrant green peppers and stuffing them with a luscious, creamy mixture that perfectly balances the heat. I often add a touch of garlic powder and shredded cheese to amp up the flavor. They bake up beautifully, becoming crispy on the outside while maintaining that addictive creamy center. Whether served as an appetizer or a snack, these poppers always steal the show!

Created by

Jenna Rowland

Last updated on 2026-01-10T12:25:12.991Z

When I first made these Jalapeno Poppers, I was impressed by how a few simple ingredients could create such explosive flavor. The cream cheese melts to perfection, balancing the jalapeno's spiciness with creamy goodness. I learned that slightly undercooking them in the oven results in a firmer, more satisfying bite. Plus, adding a sprinkle of breadcrumbs on top gives them that delightful crunch!

Through trial and error, I've also realized that using fresh jalapenos is key. They provide a vibrant flavor that frozen peppers simply can't match. I've experimented with various fillings, but cream cheese remains my absolute favorite. It gets so creamy and delicious while baking – trust me, these poppers will make any occasion special!

Why You Will Love These Jalapeno Poppers
Perfectly creamy filling that offsets the heat of spicy jalapenos.
Incredibly versatile; you can add your favorite spices and sauces.
Great for parties, game days, or just as a fun family snack.

Perfecting Your Filling

The key to a delicious filling for your jalapeno poppers lies in the cream cheese. Using room temperature cream cheese ensures that your mixture will be creamy and easy to spread. If you want an extra layer of flavor, consider mixing in some additional cheeses like pepper jack for a spicier kick or grated Parmesan for a nutty flavor. You can also add freshly chopped herbs, such as chives or cilantro, which add brightness and complement the spiciness of the jalapenos.

While mixing your filling, take care not to overmix. You want a cohesive mixture without losing the texture of the shredded cheese. A few gentle folds or a light whisking until just combined will do the trick. If you find your filling is too thick, a splash of milk or sour cream can smooth it out without compromising the consistency.

Baking for Optimal Crispiness

For that perfect golden-brown exterior, it’s important to apply cooking spray or oil lightly over the stuffed jalapenos before baking. This aids in achieving that crisp texture. Keep an eye on them towards the end of baking; the tops should be golden and slightly bubbly, indicating they are ready to come out. If you want to speed things up, a quick broil for the last 1-2 minutes can enhance the browning but watch closely as they can burn quickly.

If you opt for breadcrumbs, toast them lightly before sprinkling them over the filling. This provides an additional layer of flavor and guarantees a crunchier texture. Using seasoned breadcrumbs can also enhance the flavor profile of your poppers. If you're looking for a gluten-free option, simply use crushed nuts or gluten-free bread crumbs as a substitute.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to prepare your Jalapeno Poppers:

Ingredients

12 fresh jalapenos
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
Cooking spray or oil for greasing

Now that you have all your ingredients, let's move on to the preparation steps!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your delicious Jalapeno Poppers:

Prep the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds using a spoon. Be careful, as the oils can irritate your skin. Wearing gloves is recommended!

Make the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended and creamy.

Stuff the Jalapenos

Fill each jalapeno half with the cheese mixture using a spoon or a piping bag, ensuring they’re generously stuffed.

Add Breadcrumbs

If using breadcrumbs, sprinkle them on top of the stuffed jalapenos for an added crunch.

Bake the Poppers

Arrange the stuffed jalapenos on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and lightly spray with cooking spray. Bake for 15–20 minutes or until the tops are golden brown and crispy. Enjoy!

Once baked, let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your delicious Jalapeno Poppers!

Pro Tips

For an extra twist, consider adding diced bacon or sausage to the cheese filling. It gives a rich, savory flavor that pairs well with the jalapenos.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

You can prep these jalapeno poppers ahead of time, making them a great option for parties. After stuffing the jalapenos, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and cover with plastic wrap or foil to store in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, pull them out, let them sit for about 15 minutes to come to room temperature, and then pop them in the oven.

If you need to store leftovers, allow the poppers to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until they are heated through and the tops regain their crispiness.

Serving Suggestions

These jalapeno poppers shine when paired with a refreshing dipping sauce. Sour cream, ranch dressing, or even a zesty aioli can complement the heat and richness of the poppers beautifully. For an extra kick, try drizzling sriracha or your favorite hot sauce over the top before serving.

If you want to create a fun twist on the classic recipe, consider wrapping the stuffed jalapenos in bacon before baking. This adds a smoky flavor that contrasts nicely with the creaminess of the filling. For a vegetarian alternative, you can use smoked tofu or eggplant strips as a substitute for bacon.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of cheese?

Absolutely! You can mix and match cheeses according to your preference. Cream cheese, Monterey Jack, or queso fresco work wonderfully.

→ How do I store leftover Jalapeno Poppers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

→ Are these poppers spicy?

They have a nice kick, but the cream cheese helps tone down the heat. If you're sensitive to spice, consider removing more of the seeds.

→ Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the jalapenos and stuffing ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. Just bake them when you're ready to serve.