Jalapeno Poppers with Cheddar Filling

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Cheddar Filling
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 poppers
Ingredients: 12 large jalapenos; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 1/2 tsp smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Simple Baking Collection

I absolutely love whipping up a batch of Jalapeno Poppers with Cheddar Filling for gatherings or a cozy movie night at home. The combination of spicy jalapenos and creamy cheddar cheese creates an incredible flavor explosion that never fails to impress. Plus, the crispy texture from the breadcrumbs adds a delightful crunch. With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, these poppers are as easy to make as they are delicious, and they're sure to be the star of the show!

Created by

Matilda Rowe

Last updated on 2026-01-13T03:25:35.753Z

When I first tried making Jalapeno Poppers, I was surprised at how simple yet satisfying they were. The first batch came out perfectly crispy, and the filling was a creamy, cheesy bliss. I discovered that pre-baking the jalapenos before stuffing them allows for better flavor and texture, which is a little tip I love to share.

Since then, I've experimented with various fillings, but the classic cheddar cheese always steals the spotlight. Experimenting with spices gives it that extra kick I adore, and I can't resist serving them with a side of tangy dipping sauce for that perfect balance of flavors!

Why You'll Love These Poppers
Spicy jalapenos perfectly balanced by creamy cheddar
Crispy breadcrumb topping adds an irresistible crunch
Quick and easy to prepare for any occasion

Choosing the Right Jalapenos

When selecting jalapenos for your poppers, look for firm, bright green peppers. They should feel heavy for their size and have smooth skin. Avoid any that are wrinkled or spotted, as this can indicate spoilage. The spiciness of jalapenos can vary, so if you're uncertain, taste one before using. If they seem too hot, you can soak the halved peppers in a mixture of water and vinegar for about 30 minutes to mellow the heat.

To get the best flavor, try to buy fresh jalapenos from a local farmer's market where they’re likely to be recently harvested. For those who prefer a milder flavor, you can use poblano peppers instead; they have a similar shape and texture but are significantly less spicy.

Perfecting the Cheese Mixture

The foundation of any good jalapeno popper is the cheese filling. The combination of cream cheese and sharp cheddar not only provides a creamy texture but also a rich, tangy flavor that complements the heat of the jalapeno. To make the filling even more robust, consider adding extras like crumbled bacon or chopped green onions.

If you want a twist on the traditional flavors, consider mixing in some blue cheese for a bold kick. Just remember, when mixing the cheese, do so until the mixture is smooth and glossy; this ensures a well-blended filling that won’t separate while baking. Aim for a consistency that holds together well, making it easy to stuff into the peppers.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create these flavorful Jalapeno Poppers:

For the Poppers

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

Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create delicious Jalapeno Poppers:

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Carefully slice each jalapeno in half lengthwise, and remove the seeds and membranes to reduce spiciness if desired.

Make the Filling

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

Stuff the Jalapenos

Using a spoon or piping bag, generously fill each jalapeno half with the cheese mixture. Press the mixture in well to prevent it from overflowing.

Coat and Bake

Dip each stuffed jalapeno in breadcrumbs, ensuring they are evenly coated, then place them on a baking sheet. Bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.

Serve and Enjoy

Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Serve warm as an appetizer or snack, and enjoy the crowd-pleasing flavors!

Serve with your favorite dipping sauce for an extra flavor boost!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider adding cooked bacon to the cheese filling or sprinkling some fresh herbs on top before serving.

Make-Ahead Tips

These jalapeno poppers can be prepared ahead of time, making them perfect for gatherings. After stuffing the jalapenos, cover them tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This not only saves you time on the day of your event but also allows the flavors to meld and deepen.

If you’re looking to freeze them, after stuffing, lay the poppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze them until solid. Once firm, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to enjoy, bake them directly from frozen, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time for the best results.

Serving Suggestions

These poppers are fantastic on their own, but you can elevate the experience with some tasty dips. A zesty ranch dressing or a flavorful salsa can complement the richness of the cheese filling and enhance the overall enjoyment of the dish. I personally love serving them with a side of spicy ranch for a cooling effect against the heat.

Consider serving them alongside a refreshing salad or some tortilla chips for a complete snack spread. They also pair wonderfully with cold beverages like beer or a light white wine, making them a perfect addition to any fun gathering or casual get-together.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these jalapeno poppers in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the poppers and store them in the fridge for a few hours before baking them.

→ Are jalapeno poppers spicy?

They can be spicy, but you can reduce the heat by removing the seeds and membranes from the jalapenos.

→ Can I freeze stuffed jalapeno poppers?

Absolutely! You can freeze them before baking and then bake them directly from the freezer, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

→ What can I serve with jalapeno poppers?

These poppers pair well with ranch dressing or a tangy dipping sauce. They also go great with a cold beer!