Jalapeno Poppers with Garlic Mozzarella

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Garlic Mozzarella
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 12 fresh jalapeno peppers; 1 cup garlic mozzarella cheese, shredded; 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened; 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional); Cooking spray

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I love making Jalapeno Poppers with Garlic Mozzarella because they're not just delicious; they are the ultimate party snack! With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, these cheesy, spicy treats come together quickly and are always a hit. The gooey garlic mozzarella inside perfectly complements the fiery jalapenos, creating a flavor explosion that keeps everyone coming back for more. Whether I’m hosting a gathering or just craving a snack, I can’t resist whipping up a batch of these poppers.

Created by

Jasmine Porter

Last updated on 2026-01-14T01:37:09.780Z

When I first made Jalapeno Poppers with Garlic Mozzarella, I was surprised at how simple yet rewarding they were! I learned that roasting the jalapenos first softens their heat just enough, allowing the creamy mozzarella to shine through without being overpowered. This method has become my go-to for bringing out the best flavors in these delightful snacks.

Over the years, I’ve experimented with various fillings, but the garlic-infused mozzarella remains my favorite. The garlic adds a robust flavor that balances out the spiciness of the jalapenos beautifully. I recommend letting the poppers cool slightly before digging in, as they can be super hot right out of the oven!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Irresistible blend of spicy and cheesy flavors
Easy to make with simple ingredients
Perfect for parties, game days, or a cozy night in

      

The Importance of Cheese Selection

Choosing the right cheese is crucial for achieving the perfect texture and flavor in jalapeno poppers. Garlic mozzarella provides a wonderful stretchiness and is infused with flavor that complements the heat of the jalapenos. Look for a high-quality mozzarella that has a bit of moisture, which will melt beautifully, creating a gooey filling. You can substitute with a sharp cheddar for a more pronounced flavor or even a vegan cheese alternative if you're catering to dietary restrictions.

For an even richer flavor experience, consider blending different cheeses. A mix of mozzarella and cream cheese not only adds creaminess but helps the filling to bind together, ensuring it stays put when you bite into your popper. Remember to keep the proportions balanced—too much cream cheese could make the filling too soft, while too little might not hold up.

Perfecting the Baking Technique

Baking jalapeno poppers at the right temperature is key to achieving that perfect balance between crispy and creamy. Preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) is ideal for ensuring the jalapenos bake evenly while allowing the cheese to melt without browning too quickly. This range is perfect for puffing up the filling until it becomes gooey and delightful. Keep an eye on them—after about 12 minutes, the cheese should start bubbling, but you want to pull them out before they take on too much color.

If you're looking for a crispy topping, the breadcrumb option is fantastic. Just make sure you lightly spray it with cooking spray before baking to achieve a golden brown crust. If they're not browning as desired, a quick broil for 1-2 minutes at the end can help - just don’t walk away, as broiling can turn them from perfectly toasted to burnt in seconds.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make delicious Jalapeno Poppers:

Ingredients

12 fresh jalapeno peppers
1 cup garlic mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
Cooking spray

Instructions

Follow these steps to create perfectly stuffed jalapeno poppers:

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice each jalapeno in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes, adjusting for desired heat level.

Make the Filling

In a bowl, mix the garlic mozzarella, cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Stuff the Peppers

Generously fill each jalapeno half with the cheese mixture. If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for an extra crunch.

Bake the Poppers

Place stuffed jalapenos on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly spray with cooking spray and bake for 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and the jalapenos are tender.

Serve

Allow the poppers to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy them warm for the best flavor!

Pro Tips

For a twist, try adding cooked bacon bits to the cheese filling or top with some chopped green onions before baking.

Serving Suggestions

Jalapeno poppers are a versatile snack that can be served in a variety of ways. Pair them with a cooling dipping sauce, such as ranch or tzatziki, to balance the heat from the jalapenos. You can also serve with homemade salsa or a drizzle of hot sauce for an extra kick. For a more festive presentation, arrange them on a platter with fresh cilantro or slices of lime for garnishing.

If you're hosting, consider making a variety of poppers with different fillings. You can fill some with bacon bits, for example, or experiment with adding herbs like chives for a new flavor twist. This not only adds variety to your snack table but also caters to different tastes in your crowd.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftover jalapeno poppers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. To maintain their crispiness, consider reheating them in the oven instead of the microwave, which can make them soggy. Place the poppers on a baking sheet and reheat at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through and the cheese is bubbly again.

For make-ahead options, you can prepare the jalapeno poppers up to the baking stage—just fill and assemble them. Cover and refrigerate them for a day before you plan to bake. This can save you time on the day of your gathering while still delivering that fresh, homemade flavor. Just be aware that baking time may vary slightly from fresh poppers as they'll be chilling before they hit the oven.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these poppers ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the jalapenos and filling in advance, then refrigerate. Bake them just before serving.

→ What can I use if I can't find garlic mozzarella?

You can substitute with regular mozzarella and add more minced garlic to the filling mixture.

→ Are there any alternatives to breadcrumbs?

You can omit breadcrumbs or use crushed cornflakes for a gluten-free option.

→ How spicy are these poppers?

The spiciness can vary per jalapeno. Removing the seeds and membranes will lessen the heat significantly.