Jalapeno Poppers with Cheddar

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Cheddar
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 large jalapenos; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil spray

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

When I first tried making Jalapeno Poppers with Cheddar, I was blown away by how quickly they disappeared! The combination of spicy jalapenos and creamy, melted cheddar is a flavor explosion that's hard to resist. I've perfected the recipe over the years by tweaking the ingredients and cooking method to ensure each popper is bursting with flavor. They're perfect as appetizers for parties or simply as a treat for movie night. Trust me, these will become your new favorite snack!

Created by

Jasmine Porter

Last updated on 2026-01-10T11:46:15.467Z

One memorable evening, a friend brought Jalapeno Poppers to a gathering, and I knew I had to try making them myself. I experimented with different cheeses and spices to elevate the flavor profile. The addition of smoked paprika transformed the filling, giving it a delightful depth that complements the heat of the jalapenos beautifully. I also discovered that baking them instead of frying preserves their crunchy texture while keeping things healthy.

Through all my testing, I learned that the key to perfect jalapeno poppers is removing the seeds thoroughly for just the right amount of heat. This balance allows even those who aren't fans of spicy food to enjoy them. I also recommend letting them cool for a few minutes before serving, as the filling is scalding right out of the oven!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Irresistibly cheesy with a spicy kick
Easy to make and perfect for gatherings
Customizable to suit your heat preference

      

Choosing the Right Jalapenos

When selecting jalapenos for your poppers, look for firm peppers with a smooth skin and bright green color. Larger jalapenos will provide more filling surface area, but smaller ones can be packed with more heat. The spice level varies, so taste one raw if you're uncertain. For milder poppers, remove more seeds and membranes, as these components house most of the heat.

If humidity affects your jalapenos and they seem limp, consider soaking them in cold water for 30 minutes before using. This simple trick can revive their crispness and improve the texture of your finished poppers. Remember, fresh ingredients lead to better flavor—ideally, use jalapenos that are less than a week old for the best results.

Mastering the Filling Technique

To achieve the creamiest filling, ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature. It should be soft enough to blend easily with the cheddar and spices. If you're short on time, microwave the cream cheese for 10-15 seconds, but watch closely to avoid melting it. A properly combined mixture will result in a glossy, vibrant filling texture that you can easily spoon into the jalapenos without it spilling out.

Feel free to adjust the cheddar cheese to suit your taste. For a sharper flavor, choose aged cheddar, or a smoky variant if you prefer a deeper taste. You can also mix in other ingredients like crumbled bacon or diced green onions for added complexity. Being creative with your filling can lead to exciting flavor combinations.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Jalapeno Poppers

Ingredients

12 large jalapenos
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil spray

Feel free to mix and match cheeses or add spices to personalize your poppers!

Instructions

Preparation Steps

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes. Set aside.

Make the Filling

In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until fully combined.

Stuff the Jalapenos

Using a spoon or a piping bag, fill each jalapeno half with the cheese mixture, pressing down slightly to ensure they're filled well.

Add Topping

Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the filled jalapenos. Lightly spray with olive oil to help them brown.

Bake

Place the stuffed jalapenos on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes or until the tops are golden brown and bubbly.

Let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious homemade Jalapeno Poppers!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, you can add cooked and crumbled bacon to the cheese filling.

Serving and Pairing Ideas

Jalapeno poppers make a fantastic appetizer, but they can also shine as part of a main dish. Consider pairing them with a creamy dipping sauce, like ranch or cilantro-lime yogurt, for a refreshing balance against the heat. They can be served alongside grilled meats or burgers for an enticing contrast of flavors during cookouts.

If you're serving these at a party, you can arrange them on a platter garnished with lime wedges and fresh herbs. This not only makes for an attractive presentation but also adds an extra layer of brightness. For a themed night, serve them alongside tacos or a spicy salsa to keep the flavor profile consistent.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftover jalapeno poppers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain their texture, avoid stacking them on top of one another. If you need to freeze them, do so before baking; individually wrap each popper in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to two months.

To reheat, place frozen poppers on a baking sheet in a preheated 375°F oven for about 20-25 minutes until heated through and crispy. If reheating cooked poppers, aim for 15 minutes to restore their crispy exterior while keeping the filling creamy. Avoid microwaving, as this can lead to a soggy texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these poppers ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare them and store them in the fridge. Bake them just before serving.

→ Are jalapeno poppers spicy?

They can be! If you want them milder, be sure to remove all the seeds and membranes.

→ Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! Cream cheese blends well with various cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for extra flavor.

→ Is there a vegetarian option?

Yes, you can fill them with a mix of beans, corn, and cheese for a tasty vegetarian version.