Jalapeno Poppers with Cream Cheese

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

Highlighted under: Family Food

I have always loved the combination of spicy and creamy flavors, and these Jalapeno Poppers with Cream Cheese bring that satisfaction to a whole new level. Each bite is an explosion of taste, thanks to the balance of heat from the jalapenos and the velvety smoothness of the cream cheese. Whether I'm serving them at a party or craving a delicious appetizer for movie night, these poppers never fail to impress. I also love how easy they are to make, allowing me to whip up a batch in no time!

Created by

Dahlia Kensington

Last updated on 2026-01-12T08:02:35.964Z

When I first tried making Jalapeno Poppers, I was amazed at how simple yet satisfying they were. I learned that roasting the jalapenos first enhances their sweetness and reduces some of their heat, allowing me to enjoy that perfect balance. A tip I discovered is to use a mix of cheddar and cream cheese for an extra layer of flavor that keeps everyone coming back for more.

Each time I serve these poppers, they disappear in a flash! It’s become a tradition at gatherings to have them as an appetizer. Pairing them with a cool dipping sauce not only complements the heat but also adds a delightful contrast. Trust me; they are always a crowd-pleaser!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Creamy filling that perfectly balances the spicy jalapeno
Quick to prepare, making them perfect for spontaneous gatherings
Versatile: can be served as an appetizer or a fun snack

Perfecting Your Jalapeno Poppers

When preparing your jalapenos, the heat level can vary significantly from pepper to pepper. This is due to the natural variation in spiciness within jalapeno peppers. If you're worried about them being too spicy for your guests, taste a small piece before cutting them all. You can also choose to remove the seeds and membranes, as these hold most of the heat, resulting in a milder popper that still retains great flavor.

The cream cheese filling is the star of the show, and the consistency is key. Ensure that your cream cheese is well softened, which makes it easier to blend thoroughly with the cheddar and spices. If you find your filling too thick, a tablespoon or two of sour cream can add creaminess without sacrificing flavor. This also contributes a slight tang that enhances the overall taste profile.

Baking to Golden Perfection

Baking jalapeno poppers requires attention to timing. Start checking them at the 15-minute mark to ensure they don’t overcook. You're looking for the jalapenos to be tender, and the tops should have a lovely golden color. If they're not browning as desired, switching your oven to broil for the last minute can give them that appealing crispiness without overcooking the peppers themselves.

To ensure even cooking, arrange your poppers with a bit of space between them on the baking sheet. This helps the heat circulate around each popper, promoting uniform tenderness and crispness. Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper not only makes for easier cleanup but also prevents sticking—an important consideration for those cheesy fillings that might ooze out during baking.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make these delicious Jalapeno Poppers:

Ingredients

12 fresh jalapeno peppers
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking spray or olive oil, for greasing

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Jalapeno Poppers:

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut each jalapeno in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes for a milder taste, or leave some in for more heat.

Make the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended.

Fill the Jalapenos

Spoon the cheese mixture into the halved jalapenos, filling them generously.

Coat and Bake

Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top of each stuffed jalapeno for added crunch. Place the poppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and spray with cooking spray or drizzle with a bit of olive oil.

Bake and Enjoy

Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until the jalapenos are tender and the tops are golden brown. Enjoy while hot!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, try adding bacon bits to the cream cheese mixture or topping the poppers with chopped scallions before serving.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

These jalapeno poppers can be served with various dipping sauces to enhance their flavor. A cooling ranch or blue cheese dressing works exceptionally well against the heat. Alternatively, a salsa or guacamole can introduce a fresh element, complementing the creamy filling irresistibly. If you're serving them at a party, consider arranging them on a platter with colorful vegetable sticks or tortilla chips for a vibrant touch.

For a fun twist, you can elevate your poppers by topping them with crumbled bacon before baking. The crunchy, savory bacon pairs wonderfully with the cheddar and cream cheese filling, creating a delightful flavor explosion in every bite. Just make sure to partially cook your bacon beforehand, as it won't have enough time to crisp up in the oven with the poppers.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

These poppers are not only delicious but also convenient for meal prep. You can prepare the jalapeno boats and fill them with the cream cheese mixture a day ahead. Store the prepared poppers covered in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake them. Just ensure to bring them to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through, avoiding the microwave, which can make the poppers soggy. For longer storage, freeze the unbaked poppers on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag once they're solid. Bake from frozen, adding an additional 5-10 minutes to the baking time.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the poppers a day in advance, just bake them right before serving.

→ How spicy are these jalapeno poppers?

The spice level depends on the type of jalapenos used; removing the seeds will lessen the heat considerably.

→ Can I substitute the cheese?

Definitely! You can use any cheese you like, such as cream cheese mixed with crumbled feta or mozzarella.

→ What is the best way to store leftovers?

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