Jalapeno Poppers with Cheddar

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Cheddar
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 12 fresh jalapenos; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp onion powder; 1/4 tsp smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Bacon bits or crumbs (optional, for topping); Cooking spray

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making Jalapeno Poppers with Cheddar for a quick snack or party appetizer. The creamy, cheesy filling paired with the spicy kick of the jalapeños is simply irresistible. Whenever I create these poppers, I make sure to use fresh ingredients and a mixture of cream cheese and sharp cheddar, providing both a rich flavor and a delightful texture. They are always a hit at gatherings, disappearing in no time. I can’t wait for you to try this spicy treat!

Created by

Brielle Thompson

Last updated on 2026-01-11T21:34:08.993Z

When I first tried making Jalapeno Poppers with Cheddar, I was amazed at how easy yet delicious they were. The key is to balance the creaminess of the filling with the heat from the jalapeños. By roasting them first, I found that the spice mellows, making them even more enjoyable! I love to add a sprinkle of garlic powder and some herbs to heighten the flavor.

Over the years, I’ve experimented with different cheese mixtures, but cheddar remains my favorite because it melts beautifully and has a robust flavor that pairs perfectly with the peppers. Just ensure you wear gloves while handling the jalapeños to avoid any spicy surprises!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A perfect blend of spicy and creamy flavors
Easy to prepare with just a few ingredients
Great for parties and gatherings as a crowd-pleaser

      

Choosing the Right Jalapenos

When selecting jalapenos for your poppers, look for fresh, firm peppers with a vibrant green color. Avoid any that have wrinkles or blemishes, as these can indicate they’re past their prime. The size of the jalapenos matters too; larger ones provide more stuffing space, while smaller peppers tend to have a spicier kick. If you’re sensitive to heat, you can also opt for milder varieties like Anaheim peppers for a similar texture without the intense heat.

If you want to experiment with flavors, consider using a mix of jalapenos and other peppers, like serranos or poblanos. This can give your poppers a unique flair and varying degrees of heat. Adjust the filling based on the pepper variety; for example, if using milder peppers, you can increase the spice in your cheese filling to balance the flavors.

Tips for the Perfect Filling

Achieving a smooth, creamy filling is key for jalapeno poppers. Be sure that your cream cheese is at room temperature so it mixes easily with the cheddar and spices. I usually leave it out for about 30 minutes before starting. For an extra kick, try adding finely chopped fresh herbs such as cilantro or green onions to the cheese mixture. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds a nice color contrast to the poppers.

To ensure even distribution of flavors, mix the filling until it’s glossy and well combined, which usually takes a couple of minutes. If you find the mixture too thick, you can add a tablespoon of sour cream or Greek yogurt to reach your desired consistency. This will also add a slight tang that complements the heat of the jalapenos beautifully.

Baking and Serving Suggestions

When it comes to baking, keep an eye on your jalapeno poppers as they cook. Depending on your oven and the size of your peppers, the cooking time can vary. Watch for the cheese to be bubbly and slightly golden, which usually takes about 15-20 minutes. If you prefer an extra crispy topping, you can place them under the broiler for the last couple of minutes—just be cautious to prevent burning.

For serving, consider pairing your jalapeno poppers with a cool dipping sauce to balance the heat. A ranch or blue cheese dressing works wonders, or you could whip up a quick avocado crema with avocado, lime juice, and cilantro for a fresh twist. I often serve them alongside tortilla chips and salsa for a fun and interactive snack experience!

Ingredients

For the Jalapeno Poppers

12 fresh jalapenos
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/4 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Bacon bits or crumbs (optional, for topping)
Cooking spray

Ensure that all ingredients are at room temperature for the best mixing results.

Instructions

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds. If you prefer less heat, you can scoop out some of the inner membranes as well.

Make the Filling

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

Stuff the Jalapenos

Using a small spoon or your fingers, fill each jalapeno half with the cheese mixture, packing it in well.

Bake the Poppers

Place the stuffed jalapenos on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. If desired, sprinkle bacon bits or crumbs on top. Lightly spray with cooking spray for a nice crisp.

Cook and Enjoy

Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the jalapenos are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden. Serve warm.

Let the poppers cool slightly before serving to avoid burning your mouth!

Pro Tips

For an extra twist, try adding some diced jalapeno or herbs to the cheese filling for added flavor. These poppers also freeze well, so you can prep them in advance and bake them fresh when needed.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These jalapeno poppers can be prepared in advance, making them perfect for a party. You can stuff the jalapenos and keep them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to cover them with plastic wrap to prevent them from drying out. If you're in a rush, you can even freeze the stuffed jalapenos. Place them on a baking sheet in the freezer until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Make sure to label the bag with the date; they can last for up to 3 months in the freezer.

When you're ready to cook frozen jalapenos, there's no need to thaw; just bake them directly from the freezer. You may need to add a few more minutes to the cooking time to ensure they heat through completely. This method allows you to have a delicious, spicy snack ready at a moment's notice!

Experimenting with Fillings

While the classic cream cheese and cheddar filling is timeless, feel free to get creative! For a smoky flavor, consider adding crumbled feta cheese or some diced sun-dried tomatoes to the mix. Storing leftovers? They can be enjoyed cold or reheated in an air fryer or oven to restore their crispy texture. The key is to avoid microwaving them, as this can make the poppers soggy.

You might also want to try different herbs and spices in your filling. Chopped jalapeno adds extra heat, or you could incorporate some cooked chorizo for a flavorful meat option. Adjust the amount of cheese accordingly to balance the new ingredients without compromising the creamy texture.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One challenge that can arise when making jalapeno poppers is having the filling ooze out during baking. To prevent this, ensure you pack the filling tightly into the jalapenos and seal the ends if possible. Using bacon as a topping can also help hold everything together while adding extra flavor and texture, as it crisps up nicely in the oven.

If your poppers end up too spicy for your liking, serving them with a cooling dip, like yogurt or sour cream, can help tone down the heat. Also, consider adjusting the ingredients for your next batch; using a higher cheese-to-pepper ratio can create a creamier and milder experience!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes, you can experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack for more spice or mozzarella for a milder flavor.

→ How can I make these poppers healthier?

Consider using low-fat cream cheese and skipping the bacon bits to reduce calorie content.

→ What should I serve with jalapeno poppers?

They pair wonderfully with ranch dressing or a spicy dipping sauce for extra flavor.

→ Can I prepare these ahead of time?

Yes! You can stuff the jalapenos ahead of time and keep them in the fridge until you're ready to bake.