Jalapeno Poppers with Cheddar Filling

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Cheddar Filling
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 poppers
Ingredients: 12 fresh jalapeno peppers; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 1/2 tsp smoked paprika; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1 cup breadcrumbs (for coating); Cooking spray or oil for greasing

Highlighted under: Simple Baking Favorites

I absolutely love making Jalapeno Poppers with Cheddar Filling for any gathering. The explosion of flavors from the spicy jalapeno combined with creamy cheddar creates a delightful bite that everyone enjoys. Each popper is crispy on the outside and bursting with cheesy goodness inside. It's a fun recipe that allows me to get creative with spices and herbs, making it versatile for any palate. Whether you're a spice lover or just looking for an appetizer to impress, these poppers are sure to be a hit!

Created by

Pippa Lawson

Last updated on 2026-01-13T03:33:35.296Z

When I first attempted making Jalapeno Poppers at home, I was surprised at how simple and satisfying the process was. The secret lies in using the right balance of spices to complement the cheddar, ensuring the flavors meld perfectly when baked. By roasting the jalapenos beforehand, I found that their natural sweetness shines through, creating a wonderful contrast with the creamy filling.

During testing, I discovered that adding a touch of garlic powder and onion powder to the cheese mixture elevates the flavor significantly. I love serving these at parties, and they disappear quickly, often sparking conversations about their deliciousness and what makes them so addictive!

        Why You'll Love These Poppers
        Spicy jalapenos paired with creamy cheddar for a perfect bite.
Crispy outside with a soft, flavorful filling.
Easily customizable with your favorite spices or add-ins.

      

Perfecting Your Jalapeno Poppers

Achieving the ideal balance of spicy and creamy is key when making jalapeno poppers. The freshness of the jalapenos complements the rich, smooth texture of the cream cheese and cheddar. Make sure to taste your filling before stuffing it into the jalapenos. If you prefer a bolder flavor, add additional spices or even diced cooked bacon for an extra layer of complexity. It's all about balancing the spice level according to your preference while keeping that creamy texture intact.

Another consideration when crafting perfect poppers is ensuring your jalapenos are prepared correctly. Removing the seeds and membranes significantly reduces the heat, so adjust this step based on your spice tolerance. Depending on the size of your jalapenos, you might need to ensure they are uniform in size for even cooking, so pick peppers that are similar in dimensions. This way, you avoid any poppers that are undercooked or overcooked.

Coating and Baking Techniques

The coating on jalapeno poppers not only adds crunch but also enhances the overall flavor profile. After stuffing the jalapenos with your cheese mixture, dip them in breadcrumbs. For a more intense crunch, consider using panko breadcrumbs instead of regular ones. Panko will give you an airier, more textured coating. Just be sure to dip evenly to avoid any bare spots, which can lead to dry areas once baked.

Baking is another crucial step to achieving that perfect texture. Preheating your oven is essential, as it ensures an even baking environment. Aim for a baking duration of 15-20 minutes or until the poppers achieve a golden brown hue. If you notice the tops browning too quickly, consider covering them loosely with aluminum foil during the last few minutes of baking. This will allow the interior to cook through while preventing burning.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

While the classic cheddar filling is delectable, you can mix it up with various cheeses to match your taste. Try using pepper jack for an extra kick, or a blend of feta and herbs for a Mediterranean twist. Adding ingredients like chopped green onions or cilantro into the filling can elevate the flavors even further. For a smoky variant, consider incorporating diced chorizo into the cheese mixture to tie in with the smoked paprika.

When it comes to serving, jalapeno poppers pair excellently with various dipping sauces, enhancing the flavor experience. A tangy ranch or a creamy sour cream dip can balance the heat while providing a cooling effect. For those who enjoy a kick, a spicy salsa or sriracha can add an extra dimension. Keep your serving options varied to cater to different tastes; providing a selection allows guests to customize their experience.

Ingredients

12 fresh jalapeno peppers
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 cup breadcrumbs (for coating)
Cooking spray or oil for greasing

Instructions

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes to reduce spiciness. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Make the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix until smooth and well combined.

Stuff the Jalapenos

Spoon the cheese mixture into each jalapeno half, packing it in generously.

Coat the Poppers

Dip each stuffed jalapeno in breadcrumbs, ensuring they are well coated for added crunch.

Bake the Poppers

Lightly spray the poppers with cooking spray or drizzle with oil. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.

Serve and Enjoy!

Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy these delicious jalapeno poppers warm with your favorite dipping sauce.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding crumbled bacon to the cheese mixture or drizzle some hot sauce on top before serving. If you prefer milder poppers, look for sweet or mild jalapenos instead!

Make-Ahead Tips

If you're looking to save time on the day of your gathering, consider prepping your jalapeno poppers in advance. You can stuff and coat them, then keep them covered in the refrigerator for up to a day before baking. Just remember to allow them to reach room temperature before popping them into the oven. This will ensure they bake evenly and thoroughly, resulting in that perfect crispy exterior.

Another great option for convenience is to freeze the stuffed but unbaked poppers. Arrange them on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, then store them in an airtight container or freezer bag. When you're ready to enjoy, cook them directly from frozen but add about 5 extra minutes to the baking time. This method keeps their freshness intact while also making them readily available for spontaneous events.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common issue with jalapeno poppers is that sometimes the filling can start to ooze out during baking. To prevent this, make sure to pack the filling tightly in the jalapenos and avoid overfilling. If you're using a cream cheese mixture, ensure it's well blended for uniform consistency. This way, it holds together better while cooking.

If your poppers are not browning as expected, ensure your baking sheet is properly greased to allow for even cooking. If the inside seems undercooked while the outside is done, try reducing the oven temperature slightly to allow for more thorough cooking without over-browning the exterior. A reliable thermometer can help check the internal temperature, aiming for at least 165°F (74°C) for the filling for food safety.

Ideas for Leftover Poppers

If you have leftover jalapeno poppers, they can easily be reheated in the oven or air fryer to restore their crispiness. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. Air fryers are fantastic for reheating as well––just set the temperature to 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, making sure to check frequently to prevent overcooking.

Alternatively, consider repurposing leftover filling. You can use it as a creamy spread for crackers or bread, or even as a filling for quesadillas. Just remember to refrigerate any leftovers promptly and consume them within 3 days for the best flavor and quality.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these poppers ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the jalapenos with the filling and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking.

→ What can I use instead of breadcrumbs?

You can use crushed cornflakes or ground nuts for a gluten-free option.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven before serving.

→ Can I freeze these poppers?

Absolutely! Freeze the uncooked stuffed jalapenos on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.