Jalapeno Poppers with Cheddar

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Cheddar
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 poppers
Ingredients: 12 fresh jalapenos; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making Jalapeno Poppers with Cheddar for gatherings. These spicy bites are a perfect combination of heat and creamy cheesy goodness that always impresses my guests. The crunch from the breadcrumbs and the melty cheese create a delightful texture that I can't resist. Plus, they are surprisingly easy to prepare! Whenever I make them, I enjoy experimenting with different spices to elevate the flavor, making them a fun and versatile party snack that never fails to disappear quickly.

Created by

Daisy Webb

Last updated on 2026-01-10T11:04:06.626Z

When I first tried making Jalapeno Poppers, I was amazed at how simple it was to achieve such a flavorful snack. The combination of fresh jalapenos and creamy cheddar cheese is a crowd-pleaser. I found that prepping the jalapenos properly, by removing the seeds and membranes, greatly reduced the heat and allowed the cheese to shine through.

I usually pair these poppers with a zesty dipping sauce that adds an extra layer of flavor. One time, I added some smoked paprika to the cheese mix, which truly enhanced the overall taste. These poppers are not just an appetizer—they're always a hit!

        Why You'll Love These
        Spicy kick balanced by creamy cheddar cheese
Quick to prepare and perfect for any gathering
Customizable with different proteins or spices

      

Elevate Your Jalapeno Poppers

Experimenting with different cheeses can significantly enhance the flavor of your Jalapeno Poppers. While cheddar provides a classic sharpness, consider blending in pepper jack for an extra kick or using smoked gouda to introduce a rich, earthy flavor. This slight tweak can deliver a unique twist to the traditional recipe, making it a delightful surprise for your guests.

To boost the flavor profile further, herbs and spices play a crucial role. Fresh cilantro or scallions mixed in with the cheese filling can brighten up the taste. For those who love a bit more heat, incorporating diced serrano peppers or a splash of your favorite hot sauce into the mixture can create an exciting flavor explosion!

Troubleshooting Common Mistakes

One common issue is preventing the jalapenos from becoming too mushy during baking. Ensuring the jalapenos are fresh and not overcooked is key. Roast them for exactly 15 minutes to achieve a slightly crisp bite while allowing the cheese to bubble and brown just right. A good indicator is when the cheese begins to ooze out slightly and the edges turn golden.

Another point to note is the cream cheese filling being overly thick. Aim for a smooth, spreadable mixture; if it feels too dense, you can whisk in a teaspoon of milk or sour cream. This will not only improve the texture but help the filling meld beautifully with the jalapenos, ensuring a creamy consistency in each bite.

Ingredients

For the Poppers

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

Make sure to wear gloves when handling jalapenos to avoid any irritation!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Prepare the Jalapenos

Cut the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes.

Make the Filling

In a bowl, mix 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 slightly.

Coat with Breadcrumbs

Dip each filled jalapeno into breadcrumbs to coat the top.

Bake

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

Serve

Let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce!

For extra crunch, you can broil them for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.

Pro Tips

For variations, try adding cooked bacon or sausage into the cheese mixture for additional flavor.

Making Ahead and Storage

Preparing Jalapeno Poppers ahead of time can simplify last-minute gatherings. You can stuff the jalapenos and place them on a baking sheet, then cover and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time to account for them being cold from the fridge, ensuring they heat through perfectly.

For longer storage, consider freezing the unbaked poppers. Arrange the stuffed jalapenos on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to enjoy, bake directly from the freezer, adding 5-10 minutes to the baking time. This makes them an ideal snack for unexpected guests!

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Jalapeno Poppers with a cooling dip to balance out their spiciness. A classic ranch dressing or creamy avocado dip works beautifully, offering a refreshing contrast. For an extra zing, consider a mango salsa or spicy verde sauce on the side to enhance the flavor experience without overshadowing the heat of the peppers.

These poppers also make a fantastic addition to a game day spread or picnic. Serve them on a platter alongside a variety of dipping options, like bleu cheese or a zesty aioli, to invite guests to explore different flavor profiles. They not only tantalize the taste buds but also provide a colorful presentation that enhances your appetizer table.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these poppers ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare them a few hours in advance and refrigerate. Just bake them right before serving.

→ How can I make them less spicy?

Removing the seeds and membranes will significantly reduce the heat, or you can use milder peppers like banana peppers.

→ What can I serve with jalapeno poppers?

They pair well with ranch dressing, sour cream, or a spicy dipping sauce.

→ Can I freeze them?

Yes, you can freeze the stuffed jalapenos before baking. Just bake them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.