Jalapeno Poppers Recipe

Highlighted under: Tastes of the Globe

Experience the perfect blend of heat and flavor with these irresistible Jalapeno Poppers. Ideal as an appetizer or snack, they are sure to impress your guests!

Felicity Grant

Created by

Felicity Grant

Last updated on 2026-01-02T02:58:07.544Z

Jalapeno Poppers are a classic appetizer that combines the spicy kick of jalapenos with creamy cheese filling, making them a crowd favorite. Perfect for parties, game nights, or any gathering!

Why You Will Love This Recipe

  • Spicy and creamy flavor combination that excites the palate
  • Easy to make with simple ingredients
  • Great for sharing at parties or enjoying as a snack

The Perfect Appetizer for Any Occasion

Jalapeno Poppers are a crowd-pleaser that can elevate any gathering. Their spicy kick combined with creamy goodness makes them an irresistible choice for parties, game days, or casual get-togethers. Whether you're hosting a barbecue or enjoying a cozy movie night, these poppers will surely impress your guests and leave them craving more.

The versatility of Jalapeno Poppers makes them suitable for various events. You can serve them as finger food at a cocktail party, or pair them with dips for a fun snack at a picnic. Regardless of the occasion, these poppers are bound to be a hit, providing a delightful burst of flavor with every bite.

Customize Your Poppers

One of the best aspects of Jalapeno Poppers is their adaptability. You can easily customize the filling to suit your taste preferences. Consider adding ingredients like crumbled bacon, diced tomatoes, or even different types of cheeses for a unique twist. Experimenting with flavors allows you to create a signature popper that reflects your personal style.

For those who enjoy experimenting with heat levels, try using different pepper varieties. Substitute jalapenos with serranos for an extra kick or opt for milder peppers like banana peppers for a more subdued flavor. This flexibility ensures that everyone can enjoy these tasty treats, regardless of their spice tolerance.

Healthy Alternatives

While these Jalapeno Poppers are undeniably delicious, you might be looking for healthier alternatives. To lighten them up, consider using low-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt in place of regular cream cheese. This substitution not only reduces calories but also adds a tangy flavor that complements the poppers beautifully.

Another option is to bake instead of fry. This recipe already utilizes baking, but you can also explore air frying for an even crispier texture without the added oil. These healthier adaptations maintain the delightful taste while making them suitable for those who are health-conscious.

Ingredients

For the Jalapeno Poppers

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

Make sure to wear gloves when handling jalapenos to avoid irritation.

Instructions

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes for a milder flavor.

Make the Filling

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

Stuff the Jalapenos

Fill each jalapeno half with the cheese mixture, pressing down to ensure it is packed in tightly.

Coat with Breadcrumbs

In a shallow dish, place the breadcrumbs. Dip the stuffed jalapenos in cooking spray, then roll them in the breadcrumbs to coat.

Bake

Place the jalapeno poppers on a baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.

Serve

Allow to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your delicious Jalapeno Poppers!

Serve these poppers with a side of dipping sauce like ranch or salsa for an extra kick!

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Pro Tips

  • For a spicier version, leave some seeds in the jalapenos when preparing.

Tips for Perfect Jalapeno Poppers

When preparing your jalapenos, wearing gloves is recommended to avoid the spicy oils from irritating your skin. Removing the seeds and membranes can significantly reduce the heat, making these poppers enjoyable for everyone. If you prefer them spicier, leave some seeds intact for an extra punch.

To ensure an even bake, space the poppers apart on the baking sheet. This allows hot air to circulate around each popper, creating a crisp exterior while keeping the filling creamy and delicious. You can also rotate the baking sheet halfway through cooking for uniform browning.

Serving Suggestions

Jalapeno Poppers are fantastic on their own, but serving them with dipping sauces can enhance the experience. Consider offering ranch dressing, sour cream, or a zesty salsa to complement their spicy flavor. These sides can provide a refreshing contrast and add another layer of taste to each bite.

For a fun twist, you can turn these poppers into a full meal by pairing them with a salad or grilled vegetables. Their robust flavor profile makes them an excellent addition to a larger spread, ensuring that your guests have a variety of tastes to enjoy.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these Jalapeno Poppers ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the poppers and refrigerate them before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they are cold.

→ What can I substitute for cream cheese?

You can use ricotta cheese or goat cheese as a substitute for cream cheese for a different flavor profile.

→ How can I make these poppers healthier?

You can bake them instead of frying and use low-fat cheese or Greek yogurt in place of cream cheese.

→ Can I freeze Jalapeno Poppers?

Yes, you can freeze them before baking. Just thaw them in the fridge and bake as directed when ready to serve.

Jalapeno Poppers Recipe

Experience the perfect blend of heat and flavor with these irresistible Jalapeno Poppers. Ideal as an appetizer or snack, they are sure to impress your guests!

Prep Time20 minutes
Cooking Duration15 minutes
Overall Time35 minutes

Created by: Felicity Grant

Recipe Type: Tastes of the Globe

Skill Level: Intermediate

Final Quantity: 12 poppers

What You'll Need

For the Jalapeno Poppers

  1. 12 large jalapenos
  2. 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  3. 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  4. 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  5. 1 tsp garlic powder
  6. 1 tsp onion powder
  7. Salt and pepper to taste
  8. Cooking spray

How-To Steps

Step 01

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes for a milder flavor.

Step 02

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

Step 03

Fill each jalapeno half with the cheese mixture, pressing down to ensure it is packed in tightly.

Step 04

In a shallow dish, place the breadcrumbs. Dip the stuffed jalapenos in cooking spray, then roll them in the breadcrumbs to coat.

Step 05

Place the jalapeno poppers on a baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.

Step 06

Allow to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your delicious Jalapeno Poppers!

Extra Tips

  1. For a spicier version, leave some seeds in the jalapenos when preparing.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 250 kcal
  • Total Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 40mg
  • Sodium: 300mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 15g
  • Dietary Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: 1g
  • Protein: 8g