Jalapeno Poppers with Cheddar and Garlic

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Cheddar and Garlic
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 poppers
Ingredients: 12 fresh jalapenos; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 tsp onion powder; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping); Cooking spray or olive oil

Highlighted under: Simple Baking Favorites

I absolutely love making Jalapeno Poppers with Cheddar and Garlic for gatherings or as a spicy snack at home. The combination of creamy cheese and the spicy kick of jalapenos creates an irresistible flavor bomb. Each bite is a delightful contrast between the crunchy exterior and the gooey, cheesy center. They’re surprisingly easy to prepare, which is perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike. Whether it's game day or a casual get-together, these poppers are sure to impress everyone around the table.

Created by

Pippa Lawson

Last updated on 2026-01-05T21:29:34.131Z

When I first tried making Jalapeno Poppers with Cheddar and Garlic, I didn't expect them to become a staple in my recipe collection. The balance of heat from the jalapenos and the richness of the cheese creates an incredible flavor. The key is to use fresh jalapenos and bake them to perfection, allowing the cheese to melt beautifully while maintaining the popper's structure.

Through a few attempts, I discovered that adding minced garlic to the cream cheese mixture elevates the overall taste. It's a simple yet transformative addition, making each bite even more flavorful. Plus, I love serving them with a homemade dipping sauce for an extra punch!

        Why You'll Love Jalapeno Poppers
        Perfect balance of spice and cheese
Delicious and cheesy filling with a hint of garlic
Great for parties or as a fun snack

      

Choosing the Right Jalapenos

The key to delicious Jalapeno Poppers lies in selecting the right jalapenos. Look for firm, vibrant green peppers without any blemishes or soft spots. Smaller jalapenos typically pack more heat than larger ones, so if you crave a spicier popper, opt for the smaller variety. Remember, the fresher the jalapeno, the better the overall flavor of your poppers will be.

If you're preparing these for a crowd and unsure about the spice level, consider using a mix of mild and spicy jalapenos. You can also remove more of the seeds and membranes to tone down the heat. For a visual cue, you want the jalapenos to be vibrant green, and by cutting them open, you'll see the luscious interior ready to be filled with cheese.

Perfecting the Cheese Filling

The creaminess of the filling is crucial for balanced Jalapeno Poppers. Start with room-temperature cream cheese; this helps it blend smoothly with the cheddar and garlic. If you want an extra zing, you can add a splash of hot sauce or some finely diced green onions for additional flavor layers. The garlic should be finely minced to ensure even distribution without overwhelming the overall taste.

To achieve the perfect consistency, mix the ingredients until fully integrated and creamy. I often find that using a hand mixer helps achieve a fluffier filling. Aim for a texture that holds well when stuffed—too runny, and the filling will ooze out during baking; too thick, and it won't spread easily into the jalapenos.

Baking for the Perfect Texture

Baking the poppers at the right temperature is essential for achieving that ideal crispy exterior while keeping the cheese gooey inside. Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and watch for the cheese to become bubbly and start to brown lightly at the edges. This visual cue indicates that they're perfectly baked; for even browning, you can rotate the baking sheet halfway through.

If you choose to use breadcrumbs, toasting them lightly in a skillet with a drizzle of olive oil before adding them on top will enhance their crunchiness. Alternatively, if you prefer a low-carb option, you can top the jalapenos with crushed pork rinds or crushed nuts for a deliciously different texture.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare these Jalapeno Poppers:

Ingredients

12 fresh jalapenos
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
Cooking spray or olive oil

Make sure to adjust the filling quantity based on your taste preferences!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create mouthwatering Jalapeno Poppers:

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Carefully cut the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes to reduce heat if desired.

Make the Filling

In a bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, minced garlic, onion powder, and black pepper. Mix until well-blended and creamy.

Stuff the Jalapenos

Using a small spoon or piping bag, fill each jalapeno half with the cheese mixture, pressing down gently to ensure a good amount of filling.

Add Breadcrumbs

If using breadcrumbs, sprinkle them on top of the stuffed jalapenos. You can also drizzle a little olive oil for extra crispiness.

Bake

Place the prepared jalapenos on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the tops are golden brown.

Let the poppers cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm!

Pro Tips

For an even spicier version, try using serrano peppers instead of jalapenos. Additionally, you can add cooked bacon bits into the filling for a delicious twist.

Make-Ahead Tips

If you're planning a gathering, you can prepare the Jalapeno Poppers in advance. Stuff the jalapenos with the cheese mixture and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just be sure to add the breadcrumbs right before baking for maximum crunchiness.

For extra convenience, you can freeze the stuffed jalapenos. Arrange them on a baking sheet in a single layer until they are frozen solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They will last up to three months. Bake directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Serving Suggestions

Jalapeno Poppers are great as a standalone snack, but you can elevate them with a dipping sauce. A cooling ranch or sour cream dip is perfect for balancing the heat. You can also experiment with different sauces, such as spicy aioli or a zesty lime crema to complement the flavors of the poppers.

Consider adding a garnish just before serving, such as fresh cilantro or chives, to bring a burst of color and added freshness. These poppers pair wonderfully with chilled beverages like beer, margaritas, or flavored sodas, making them an excellent choice for any social gathering.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these poppers ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare them a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator before baking.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover jalapeno poppers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze these poppers?

Absolutely! Freeze them before baking. Just pop them in the oven directly from the freezer for about 10 extra minutes.

→ What can I serve with them?

Jalapeno poppers pair well with ranch dressing, sour cream, or a spicy salsa as dipping sauces.