Jalapeno Poppers with Cheddar Filling

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Cheddar Filling
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 poppers
Ingredients: 12 large jalapenos; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 4 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Cooking spray

Highlighted under: Home Baking Collection

I absolutely love making Jalapeno Poppers with Cheddar Filling because they offer the perfect blend of heat and creaminess. These poppers are not only a hit at gatherings but also a fantastic snack for movie nights at home. The combination of spicy jalapenos and rich cheddar cheese creates an irresistible treat that never fails to impress. Plus, they're surprisingly easy to make! With just a few ingredients, I can whip up a batch that will leave my friends and family craving more.

Created by

Emily Carter

Last updated on 2026-01-13T02:07:35.160Z

When I first tried making Jalapeno Poppers at home, I was amazed at how simple they were to prepare. The key to a perfect popper is selecting fresh jalapenos that pack just the right amount of heat. I often roast the jalapenos briefly to enhance their flavor, which adds another layer of deliciousness. Pairing the poppers with a creamy cheddar filling takes them to a whole new level!

Over time, I experimented with different cheese blends, but I always come back to sharp cheddar for its bold flavor. I find that adding a touch of cream cheese helps to achieve that creamy texture everyone loves. Whether served as an appetizer or a game-day snack, these poppers are undoubtedly a crowd-pleaser!

        Why You'll Love These Poppers
        Bursting with flavor and perfect for sharing
The creamy cheddar filling perfectly balances the heat
Quick to prepare, making it ideal for both casual and festive occasions

      

Perfecting Your Jalapeno Poppers

When preparing jalapeno poppers, choose large jalapenos for a substantial size that can hold a generous amount of filling. Look for firm peppers with vibrant green skin. If you prefer less heat, be thorough in removing the seeds and membranes, as they contain most of the spiciness. For a kick of flavor, consider marinating the jalapenos in a bit of vinegar before stuffing; it adds a subtle tang that pairs beautifully with the creamy filling.

Your cheese filling is crucial; the combination of cheddar and cream cheese creates a rich, smooth texture that complements the crunchy breadcrumb exterior. If you want a more pronounced cheese flavor, opt for aged cheddar. You can also experiment by adding spices like smoked paprika or a pinch of cayenne for extra depth and warmth.

Baking Techniques for Crispy Results

For the best results, ensure your oven is fully preheated to 400°F (200°C) before placing the poppers in. An uneven or cool oven can lead to soggy or unevenly cooked poppers. Keep an eye on them while baking; you want them to come out golden and crispy in about 20 minutes. If they need more color, a brief broil towards the end can give that extra crunch and enhance the appeal with a beautiful golden hue.

If you're making these ahead of time, prepare the jalapenos and filling as directed, then store them unbaked in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, just pop them in the oven. This is a fantastic way to streamline meal prep for parties or gatherings!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to get started:

Ingredients for Jalapeno Poppers

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

Make sure all ingredients are prepared before you start cooking.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your Jalapeno Poppers:

Prepare the Jalapenos

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

Make the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded cheddar and cream cheese. Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix until well combined.

Fill the Jalapenos

Stuff each jalapeno half with the cheese mixture using a spoon or a piping bag. Press the filling down to ensure it is packed tightly.

Coat and Bake

Dip each stuffed jalapeno in breadcrumbs and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly spray with cooking spray and bake for 20 minutes, or until golden and crispy.

Let the poppers cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, you can add cooked bacon bits to the cheese mixture or sprinkle some smoked paprika on top before baking.

Serving Suggestions

Jalapeno poppers are versatile; serve them as a lively appetizer or alongside a fresh salad for a fun twist on dinner. Pairing these poppers with dips like ranch or blue cheese can heighten their appeal and provide a refreshing contrast to the heat. For a more gourmet experience, drizzle some homemade spicy aioli on top before serving.

For a delightful presentation, consider serving your jalapeno poppers on a platter with lime wedges, allowing guests to squeeze fresh juice over their poppers to enhance flavor. This will also add a visually appealing element, making your dish stand out at any gathering.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you’re looking for a lighter version of these poppers, consider replacing the cream cheese with a low-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt. This swap maintains the creamy texture and flavor while reducing calories. For a dairy-free option, try using cashew cream or a vegan cream cheese alternative, ensuring you remove as much water as possible to keep the filling from becoming too runny.

For those with gluten sensitivities, you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes to achieve the same crunchy coating. Just make sure to check the packaging for any unexpected gluten-containing ingredients.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the jalapenos and filling a day in advance, then bake them just before serving.

→ Do I have to use cheddar cheese?

While cheddar is traditional, feel free to swap it for any cheese you prefer, such as pepper jack for more spice.

→ How can I reduce the heat of the jalapenos?

Removing the seeds and membranes significantly reduces the spiciness. You can also soak the jalapenos in vinegar before stuffing them.

→ What can I serve with these poppers?

They pair wonderfully with ranch dressing, avocado dip, or a salsa to balance their heat.