Jalapeno Poppers with Herb Yogurt Filling

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Herb Yogurt Filling
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 poppers
Ingredients: 12 large jalapenos; 1 cup Greek yogurt; 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella); 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper, to taste; Olive oil, for greasing

Highlighted under: Balanced Food

I absolutely love making Jalapeno Poppers with Herb Yogurt Filling because they strike the perfect balance of heat and creaminess. The fresh herbs and tangy yogurt create a flavorful filling that complements the kick of jalapenos. Every time I serve these poppers, they vanish within minutes! Plus, they’re incredibly easy to make, making them a go-to appetizer for gatherings or cozy nights in. Whether you’re a spice lover or just looking to impress your guests, this recipe is bound to be a hit.

Created by

Dahlia Kensington

Last updated on 2026-01-14T08:41:35.405Z

When I first decided to make Jalapeno Poppers, I wanted something more than just cream cheese filling. After experimenting, I discovered that using a mixture of Greek yogurt and fresh herbs elevated the flavor profile to a whole new level. The creaminess of the yogurt paired beautifully with the crispiness of the jalapenos.

A little trick I learned is to adjust the filling according to your spice tolerance. If you prefer a spicier bite, just select smaller jalapenos with more seeds. They add great heat and make the poppers even more exciting to eat!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy herb yogurt filling that surprises your taste buds
Perfectly balanced heat that excites and satisfies
Easy to prepare, making it ideal for any occasion

Choosing the Right Jalapenos

Selecting the ideal jalapenos is key to achieving the perfect balance of heat and flavor in your poppers. Look for firm, shiny peppers that are a vibrant green color. Larger jalapenos typically offer a milder flavor than smaller ones, and they provide plenty of space for your delicious filling. If you're more heat-conscious, taste a small piece from the bottom of the pepper, where the heat tends to be most concentrated, to gauge spice levels before proceeding.

If you find jalapenos a bit too spicy for your taste, consider using banana peppers or even mini sweet peppers as alternatives. These options will provide a delightful crunch and a hint of sweetness without overwhelming heat. Regardless of the pepper choice, just ensure they're fresh, as old or shriveled peppers can lead to a lackluster taste and texture in your finished dish.

Perfecting Your Herb Yogurt Filling

The herb yogurt filling is where you can get creative! The original recipe features parsley and cilantro, but feel free to mix and match with herbs like chives or dill for a different flavor profile. Fresh herbs add an aromatic brightness that contrasts beautifully with the rich creaminess of the Greek yogurt. For best results, chop the herbs finely to ensure they disperse evenly throughout the filling, preventing any clumps and leading to a harmonious flavor in every bite.

Additionally, the choice of cheese can elevate your poppers significantly. While cheddar and mozzarella are great, try incorporating feta for a tangy twist or pepper jack for an extra kick of spice. Just keep an eye on the ratios—too much cheese can make the filling overly greasy. Aim for a balanced mixture where the herbs remain prominent, allowing the robust yogurt to shine alongside the cheese.

Ingredients

For the Poppers

12 large jalapenos
1 cup Greek yogurt
1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
Olive oil, for greasing

Instructions

Preparation Steps

Prep the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the jalapenos in half lengthwise, carefully removing the seeds and membranes to reduce the heat, or keep some for extra spice if you prefer.

Make the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, shredded cheese, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and chopped cilantro. Season with onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Fill the Jalapenos

Spoon the herb yogurt filling into each jalapeno half, packing it in generously to create a nice mound.

Bake the Poppers

Arrange the filled jalapenos on a greased baking sheet and drizzle with a little olive oil. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until the poppers are golden and the filling is bubbly.

Serve

Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Serve warm as a delectable appetizer!

Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an extra crunch, consider topping the poppers with breadcrumbs before baking. Additionally, you can customize the filling by adding other herbs or spices to suit your taste preferences.

Make-Ahead Tips

The beauty of jalapeno poppers lies in their versatility for preparation and serving. You can prepare the poppers a day in advance. After filling the jalapeno halves, place them on a baking sheet, cover with plastic wrap, and store them in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, simply remove the wrap and pop them in the oven. This is a fantastic way to save time during gatherings, ensuring you can enjoy the company of your guests instead of being tied to the kitchen.

If you happen to have leftovers, you can refrigerate them for up to three days. To reheat, place the poppers on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through. This method helps retain their crispy exterior while ensuring the filling is warm and gooey.

Serving Suggestions

These jalapeno poppers can be paired with an assortment of dips for added flavor. A tangy ranch or zesty guacamole can complement the poppers beautifully, enhancing their creaminess with rich texture. Alternatively, consider a spicy sriracha or a cooling sour cream to provide contrasting notes, tailoring the experience to your guests' preferences. Serve them on a large platter garnished with fresh cilantro for an attractive presentation.

For added fun, turn these poppers into a mini meal by serving them alongside a fresh salad or some crunchy tortilla chips. You can create a delightful appetizer platter that combines various flavors and textures, thus catering to different tastes and dietary considerations. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different sides to make the meal feel complete!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these poppers ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the jalapenos and filling in advance. Just assemble them and store in the fridge until you're ready to bake.

→ Are there any vegetarian options for the filling?

Absolutely! You can use a variety of cheeses or mix with roasted vegetables for a delightful vegetarian option.

→ How spicy are jalapeno poppers?

The spice level can vary based on the jalapenos you choose. Removing the seeds and membranes will tone down the heat considerably.

→ What can I serve with the poppers?

These are great served with ranch dressing, guacamole, or a fresh salsa for dipping.