Jalapeno Poppers with Mozzarella

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Mozzarella
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 poppers
Ingredients: 12 fresh jalapenos; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 tsp garlic powder; 12 slices of bacon, cut in half; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

When it comes to appetizers, I have a soft spot for spicy snacks, and these Jalapeno Poppers with Mozzarella truly hit the spot! I love how the creamy mozzarella cheese melts inside the spicy jalapenos, creating a delightful combination of flavors. These poppers are perfect for gatherings, game days, or simply enjoying at home. It's an easy recipe that always impresses friends and family. The crispy bacon wrapping gives it a satisfying crunch, making every bite a wonder of taste and texture that I can never resist.

Created by

Daisy Webb

Last updated on 2026-01-13T01:19:13.960Z

Making Jalapeno Poppers has become a weekend tradition for my family. I remember the first time I made them — the kitchen filled with the tantalizing smell of sizzling bacon and melting cheese. I experimented by adding a touch of garlic powder to the cream cheese filling, which truly elevates the flavor. I’ve noticed that letting the poppers sit for a few minutes after baking helps the cheese settle just right, making them easier to handle.

Every time I serve these poppers, they disappear in minutes! The combination of the spicy jalapeno and rich mozzarella, wrapped in crispy bacon, creates a flavor explosion that friends rave about. I take care to remove all the seeds from the jalapenos for a milder taste, but those who love heat can keep a few in for an extra kick. Trust me, they are a crowd-pleaser!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Perfectly balanced between spicy and savory flavors
Melted cheese adds a rich and creamy texture
Crispy bacon elevates the entire experience

      

Preparing the Jalapenos

Choosing the right jalapenos is crucial for this recipe. Look for firm, unblemished peppers that are bright in color. The size affects the filling capacity; medium-sized jalapenos are ideal as they provide enough room for the cheese mixture without being overwhelmingly spicy. If you prefer milder poppers, consider soaking the jalapenos in a solution of water and vinegar for about 30 minutes before baking to reduce some of the heat.

When slicing the jalapenos, it’s best to use a sharp knife to ensure clean cuts. Wear gloves to protect your hands from the capsaicin; this can cause irritation if you accidentally touch your face or eyes. Also, removing the seeds and membranes is essential, as they contain most of the heat. If you enjoy a spicy kick, you can leave a few seeds in some peppers for more flavor variance.

The Key to Melty Cheese

The blend of cream cheese and mozzarella is what makes the stuffing luscious and flavorful. Cream cheese gives a rich base that melts beautifully, while mozzarella adds stretch and gooeyness. If you wish to experiment, consider adding other cheeses, like cheddar for a sharper flavor or pepper jack for an extra kick. Just be mindful of the moisture; some cheeses can make the filling too runny and may not hold well during baking.

Make sure the cream cheese is softened before mixing—it allows for better incorporation with the mozzarella and garlic powder. An easy way to soften cream cheese is to leave it at room temperature for about 30 minutes or microwave it in 10-second intervals until just soft but not warm.

Ingredients

For Jalapeno Poppers

12 fresh jalapenos
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 tsp garlic powder
12 slices of bacon, cut in half
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice each jalapeno in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes carefully. Set aside.

Make the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, garlic powder, and season with salt and pepper. Mix until well blended.

Fill and Wrap

Using a spoon, fill each jalapeno half with the cheese mixture. Wrap each stuffed jalapeno with half a slice of bacon and secure with a toothpick if necessary.

Bake

Place the wrapped jalapenos on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and the cheese is bubbly.

Serve

Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your delicious Jalapeno Poppers!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of smoked paprika to the cheese mixture before filling the jalapenos. This adds a nice smokiness that complements the bacon beautifully.

Cooking Perfectly Crisp Bacon

To achieve perfectly crispy bacon, it’s important to use the right cooking method. Baking in the oven promotes even cooking and helps avoid burnt spots. Using a cooling rack on top of the baking sheet allows grease to drip off and enables even crispiness all around. Check on the bacon at around the 15-minute mark; your poppers should be pulled out when the bacon is golden brown and crispy but not overly dark, which can lead to bitterness.

If you prefer grilling, skewer your wrapped jalapenos to keep them stable and flip them frequently. Beware that cooking on the grill can cause flare-ups due to the bacon grease, so keep a watchful eye to avoid charring. Whether baking or grilling, use a meat thermometer to ensure the bacon reaches a safe internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Serving and Storage Tips

These jalapeno poppers are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, while the cheese is still gooey and the bacon crispy. For a flavorful presentation, serve with homemade sauces like ranch, creamy avocado dip, or spicy salsa. Garnishing with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can also elevate the dish visually, enhancing the overall dining experience.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, allowing them to heat through and crispen back up. For longer storage, you can freeze unbaked jalapeno poppers for up to 2 months. When ready to use, bake them directly from frozen, adding an extra 5-8 minutes to the cooking time.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these poppers ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the jalapeno poppers a day in advance. Store them in the refrigerator and bake them just before serving.

→ How spicy are these poppers?

The spiciness depends on the jalapenos used. Removing the seeds and membranes will yield a milder flavor.

→ Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute mozzarella with cheddar, pepper jack, or your favorite melting cheese.

→ Is there a vegetarian option?

You can make vegetarian poppers by omitting the bacon and using a different seasoning to enhance the flavor.