Jalapeno Poppers with Cream Cheese

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Cream Cheese
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 poppers
Ingredients: 12 large jalapenos; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp smoked paprika; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1 cup breadcrumbs; Oil spray (for greasing)

Highlighted under: Everyday Food

I absolutely love making Jalapeno Poppers with Cream Cheese for gatherings or a cozy night in. The combination of spicy jalapenos and creamy filling is simply irresistible! I enjoy experimenting with flavors, and this recipe really allows you to adjust the heat level with the type of jalapenos you choose. Every bite is a delightful mix of crunch and creaminess, making these poppers a perfect party snack. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll understand why they disappear faster than I can make them!

Created by

Una Whitcombe

Last updated on 2026-01-12T06:26:37.268Z

When I first made these Jalapeno Poppers, I was surprised by how quickly they became a favorite among friends and family. I took fresh jalapenos and stuffed them with a rich blend of cream cheese and spices, which created this delightful explosion of flavors. Baking them gives the outer layer a satisfying crunch while maintaining a creamy center.

A tip I discovered is to adjust the amount of cream cheese based on how spicy you want the poppers to be. Using smoked paprika offered a nice depth of flavor too, making these poppers all the more flavorful and unforgettable!

        Why You Will Love These Poppers
        Perfectly balanced heat with creamy, savory filling
Easy to make and great for sharing
Customizable to suit your spice preference

      

The Perfect Temperature for Baking

Baking jalapeno poppers at the right temperature is crucial for achieving that perfect crispy texture. Preheating the oven to 375°F (190°C) ensures that the jalapenos cook through and the filling becomes creamy and gooey without overcooking. You'll know they're done when the breadcrumbs are golden brown and the poppers look invitingly crispy on the outside.

After baking for about 15 minutes, you might want to check the poppers for doneness. If the breadcrumbs haven't reached your desired crispiness, give them an additional 2-3 minutes in the oven. Just keep an eye on them to avoid burning, as every oven behaves slightly differently!

Ingredient Insights

The key to a rich, satisfying filling lies in the cream cheese and cheddar cheese blend. By combining these two cheeses, you achieve a creamy texture with a burst of savory flavor from the cheddar. If you're looking for a lighter option, consider using reduced-fat cream cheese, though it may slightly alter the texture.

Smoked paprika adds an essential depth of flavor, complementing the spiciness of the jalapenos. If you don’t have smoked paprika, you can use regular paprika or even a touch of cayenne pepper for some extra heat. Just be cautious with the cayenne; a little goes a long way.

Serving and Storage Tips

Jalapeno poppers are excellent when served fresh out of the oven, but if you're making them ahead of time, you'll want to store them properly. Allow them to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container and refrigerating for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and crispy again.

For a fun serving idea, pair these poppers with a creamy dipping sauce like ranch or a zesty cilantro-lime crema. This not only adds a flavor contrast but also complements the heat from the jalapenos. You can also serve them alongside some nacho chips for a complete snack platter!

Ingredients

For the Jalapeno Poppers

12 large jalapenos
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 cup breadcrumbs
Oil spray (for greasing)

Instructions

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes for a milder flavor. If you prefer more heat, leave some seeds.

Make the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined and creamy.

Stuff the Jalapenos

Spoon the cream cheese mixture into each jalapeno half, packing it in generously. Press firmly to ensure the filling doesn’t spill out.

Coat with Breadcrumbs

Roll each stuffed jalapeno in breadcrumbs until evenly coated. Place them on a greased baking sheet.

Bake

Spray the tops with oil spray and bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes or until the poppers are golden brown and crispy.

Pro Tips

Feel free to experiment with different cheeses or add cooked bacon to the filling for extra flavor.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find that your jalapeno poppers are oozing filling during baking, it often means the filling was overstuffed or not packed firmly. To avoid this, make sure to fill them generously but not to the point where it spills over. When stuffing, press down slightly to create a snug fit.

Another common issue is soggy breadcrumbs, which can happen if the poppers are placed too close together on the baking sheet. Ensure there's enough space between each popper for air circulation, which helps them bake evenly and crisp up nicely.

Variations to Try

For those looking to add even more flavor, consider mixing in some cooked bacon bits or sautéed onions into the cheese mixture before stuffing the jalapenos. These additions provide extra savoriness and depth that takes the poppers to the next level. You can also experiment with different cheese combinations, like pepper jack for added spice.

If you're feeling adventurous, try using different peppers like serranos or even sweet bell peppers for a milder version. The process remains the same, but you’ll enjoy a different flavor profile while still enjoying that wonderful crunch and creamy filling.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these poppers ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare them and store them in the refrigerator before baking. Just bake them right before serving.

→ How can I make them spicier?

Leave some seeds in the jalapenos or add a dash of hot sauce to the filling for an extra kick.

→ What can I serve with jalapeno poppers?

They pair beautifully with ranch or bleu cheese dressing for dipping.

→ Can I freeze these poppers?

Absolutely! Once baked, let them cool completely, then freeze them in an airtight container. Reheat before serving.