Jalapeno Poppers with Onion Dip

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Onion Dip
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12.0
Ingredients: 12 fresh jalapenos; 1 cup cream cheese, softened; 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup breadcrumbs; Oil for frying; 1 cup mayonnaise; 1 cup sour cream; 1 cup finely chopped green onions; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making Jalapeno Poppers with Onion Dip for gatherings and game days! The spicy kick from the jalapenos combined with the creamy onion dip creates a flavor explosion. The preparation is straightforward, and I often find myself experimenting with different cheeses and spices to elevate the dish. Whether serving them at a party or indulging during a cozy night in, these poppers are always a hit. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll keep coming back to it for its satisfying crunch and delightful taste.

Created by

Brielle Thompson

Last updated on 2026-01-11T21:34:11.267Z

When I first made Jalapeno Poppers with Onion Dip, I was blown away by how easy yet impressive they turned out. The balance of spicy jalapenos and rich, creamy dip creates a duet that satisfies everyone’s taste buds. One of my tricks is to use a mix of sharp cheddar and cream cheese, which gives the filling a delightful tang and texture.

I've found that preparing the onion dip ahead of time allows the flavors to meld beautifully. It’s smooth and flavorful, perfectly complementing the crispy poppers. Pairing them with a refreshing drink can elevate your enjoyment of these delightful bites.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Deliciously spicy with a creamy, savory dip
Easy to customize with different cheeses and spices
Perfect for sharing at parties or enjoying solo

      

Choosing the Right Jalapenos

When selecting jalapenos for your poppers, opt for firm ones with shiny, vibrant skin. The size and shape matter; medium-sized jalapenos offer a perfect balance between heat and stuffing capacity. Avoid overly wrinkled or blemished peppers as they may be past their prime. If you prefer milder poppers, consider using sweet banana peppers or substituting some of the jalapenos with them while maintaining the overall count.

Another tip is to taste a small slice of the jalapeno before using. This way, you can gauge the heat level you’re working with, as some batches can be surprisingly spicy. If you find them too hot, prepare a yogurt or sour cream-based dip to cool down the heat when serving.

Maximize Flavor with Cheese Variations

While sharp cheddar is classic for jalapeno poppers, consider experimenting with different cheeses for added complexity. Creamy goat cheese or tangy blue cheese can lend a unique twist, while Monterey Jack provides a smooth melt. Combining cheeses can create delightful textures and flavors; for example, mixing cream cheese with pepper jack gives both creaminess and extra heat.

Be mindful of moisture levels; moist cheeses like Brie can make the filling soggy. To combat this, use drier cheeses or blend with a bit of cornstarch to absorb excess moisture. This ensures that your poppers stay intact and retain a satisfying crunch after baking.

Optimal Baking: Tips for Perfect Poppers

Baking the jalapeno poppers at a high temperature helps achieve that coveted golden color and crispiness. Drizzling them lightly with oil before baking not only enhances browning but also adds a touch of flavor. Keep an eye on them for the last 5 minutes—when they start turning golden and bubbly, they're close to perfection. This will ensure a nicely crisp exterior while keeping the filling decadently creamy.

After baking, let them cool slightly for a few minutes before serving. This brief resting period allows the cheese filling to set a little, making them easier to handle. Pair your poppers with the onion dip right after preparing for the best taste experience; freshly made dip complements the warm poppers beautifully.

Ingredients for Jalapeno Poppers with Onion Dip

For the Jalapeno Poppers

12 fresh jalapenos
1 cup cream cheese, softened
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup breadcrumbs
Oil for frying

For the Onion Dip

1 cup mayonnaise
1 cup sour cream
1 cup finely chopped green onions
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Note:

Feel free to adjust the spice level by using fewer jalapenos or adding cheese with a different heat profile.

How to Make Jalapeno Poppers with Onion Dip

Prepare the Jalapenos

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes to reduce the heat. Set aside.

Make the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, sharp cheddar cheese, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Mix until smooth.

Fill the Jalapenos

Spoon the cheese mixture into each jalapeno half, packing it in generously.

Coat with Breadcrumbs

Roll the stuffed jalapenos in breadcrumbs until well-coated.

Bake the Poppers

Place the coated jalapenos on a baking sheet and drizzle with oil. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and crispy.

Prepare the Onion Dip

In a separate bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sour cream, chopped green onions, garlic powder, and season with salt and pepper. Chill until serving.

Serve and Enjoy!

Serve the warm jalapeno poppers with the onion dip on the side and enjoy the delightful combination!

Tip:

For an extra crunch, consider broiling the poppers for the last couple of minutes.

Pro Tips

Always wear gloves when handling jalapenos to avoid skin irritation.

Make-Ahead Tips

For those busy days leading up to a gathering, you can prep the jalapeno poppers ahead of time. Stuff the jalapeno halves with the cheese mixture, then cover them tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When it’s time to cook, simply roll them in breadcrumbs and bake directly from the fridge—no need to thaw.

The onion dip can also be made ahead. Prepare it a day in advance and store it in the fridge. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, making it even more delicious when served alongside the hot poppers. Just give it a good stir before serving to remix the components.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store the jalapeno poppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. While they are best enjoyed fresh, reheating them in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes can help restore some crunch. Avoid the microwave, as it tends to make them soggy.

The onion dip will keep well for about a week in the fridge if stored properly. If it thickens over time, add a splash of milk or yogurt to loosen it up before serving again. Check seasoning, as flavors can mellow, and a touch more salt or fresh onion can refresh the taste.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your jalapeno poppers are not crisping up as desired, it may be due to excessive moisture in the filling. Ensure that your cream cheese and other cheese ingredients are well-blended and not overly soft. You can also increase the breadcrumb coating for a better crunch. Counteract steam by arranging them with space in between on the baking sheet to enhance air circulation.

For overly spicy poppers, serve with additional dip on the side to balance the heat. The creaminess of the onion dip works wonders to cool off the palate. If the flavors feel flat, a squeeze of fresh lime or lemon juice into the dip can brighten it significantly.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these poppers ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the jalapenos and filling a few hours in advance, just bake them before serving.

→ Are there any alternatives for the cheeses?

You can substitute with mozzarella or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Leftover poppers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I fry these instead of baking?

Absolutely! Frying will give them an extra crispy texture; just heat oil in a pan and fry until golden.