Jalapeno Poppers with Cream Cheese

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Cream Cheese
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 24 poppers
Ingredients: 12 fresh jalapenos; 1 cup cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon onion powder; 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; Cooking spray; Optional: sliced green onions for garnish

Highlighted under: Favorite Baking Collection

I absolutely love making Jalapeno Poppers with Cream Cheese for gatherings or simply as a spicy snack at home. The combination of cream cheese and spicy jalapenos creates an irresistible flavor that keeps my friends coming back for more. I often experiment with different cheeses and spices, but I always find that classic cream cheese offers the perfect creamy base to balance the heat. These poppers have become a staple at our movie nights, and the joy of seeing everyone’s faces light up when they take that first bite is priceless.

Created by

Juliet Ashford

Last updated on 2026-01-12T01:34:35.714Z

When I first attempted Jalapeno Poppers with Cream Cheese, I wanted to impress my friends with a homemade appetizer that was both flavorful and a bit spicy. I found that using fresh jalapenos really enhances the taste, and adding spices like garlic powder gives it an extra kick. Baking them instead of frying allows for a crispy exterior while keeping the creaminess inside.

The secret to perfectly balanced poppers is not overwhelming the jalapenos with the cream cheese. I've learned that a good mix of cheese can elevate the dish—sometimes I add cheddar or pepper jack for more depth. Each time I make these, they disappear within minutes!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        The perfect blend of creamy and spicy flavors in every bite
Easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser
Versatile enough for any occasion, from casual snacks to parties

      

Choosing the Right Jalapenos

Selecting fresh jalapenos is key to achieving the right balance of heat and flavor in this recipe. Look for jalapenos that are bright green and firm to the touch; avoid any that are soft or shriveled. The spice level can vary significantly among jalapenos, so if you prefer a milder popper, consider using smaller peppers or removing all of the seeds and membranes, as this will greatly reduce the heat.

Another great option is to experiment with different types of chilies. If you find jalapenos too spicy or wish to try something new, you can substitute with Anaheim or poblano peppers. They offer a similar texture but tend to be less spicy, allowing for a creamy filling to shine without being overwhelmed by heat.

Mastering the Cream Cheese Filling

The cream cheese mixture serves as the heart of these jalapeno poppers, providing a creamy base that balances the heat of the peppers. For a richer twist, I love adding crumbled feta or goat cheese to the filling for an unexpected tang. If you want to infuse more flavor, consider adding chopped herbs like cilantro or chives, or even some crumbled bacon for extra indulgence.

Be mindful of the cream cheese temperature; it should be softened to room temperature for easy mixing. If it’s too cold, you may end up with lumps in your filling, which can detract from the smooth texture when baked. A quick solution is to microwave the cream cheese for about 10-15 seconds before mixing, just until it's soft but not melted.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your jalapeno poppers:

For the Poppers

12 fresh jalapenos
1 cup cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
Cooking spray
Optional: sliced green onions for garnish

Now that you have your ingredients, let's get cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your jalapeno poppers:

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice each jalapeno 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, and smoked paprika until well combined.

Stuff the Jalapenos

Using a spoon or piping bag, fill each jalapeno half with the cheese mixture, pressing it down gently to ensure it’s well-packed.

Coat and Bake

Roll each stuffed jalapeno in breadcrumbs, place them on a baking sheet, and spray lightly with cooking spray. Bake for 20 minutes or until golden and bubbly.

Serve and Enjoy

Allow the poppers to cool for a few minutes. Garnish with sliced green onions if desired and serve hot!

Your jalapeno poppers are ready to impress!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding diced jalapenos to the cream cheese mixture or wrapping the poppers in bacon before baking.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These jalapeno poppers are perfect for make-ahead preparation. You can stuff the jalapenos up to a day in advance; just store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This not only saves time but allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the overall taste. Before baking, let the poppers sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to ensure even cooking.

If you have leftover poppers, they can be stored in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the breading soggy.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these jalapeno poppers with a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping. The cool creaminess of the dip complements the spicy poppers beautifully. You can also pair them with a tangy salsa, guacamole, or even a drizzle of hot sauce for those who love an extra kick.

Consider setting up a fun popper bar at your next gathering! Provide a variety of dipping sauces and garnishes like sliced radishes, cilantro, or lime wedges. This interactive approach adds an exciting element and allows guests to customize their poppers according to their taste preferences.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these jalapeno poppers ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the jalapenos and fill them with the cream cheese mixture a day in advance and bake them just before serving.

→ Are jalapeno poppers gluten-free?

Yes, if you use gluten-free breadcrumbs, this recipe can be made gluten-free.

→ How can I adjust the spice level?

To reduce spiciness, remove all the seeds and membranes from the jalapenos. For more heat, add diced jalapenos or spicy seasonings to the cheese mixture.

→ Can I use other types of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix different cheeses like pepper jack, feta, or even blue cheese for a unique flavor.