Jalapeno Poppers with Cream Cheese

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Cream Cheese
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 cheddar cheese; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp smoked paprika; 1/2 tsp salt; 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled (optional); Cooking spray

Highlighted under: Cozy Ideas

I absolutely love making Jalapeno Poppers with Cream Cheese, especially for gatherings! The combination of spicy jalapenos and creamy cheese is simply irresistible. I find that these appetizers strike the perfect balance of heat and richness, making them a crowd favorite. Plus, they’re easy to whip up and can be customized with various seasonings. Whether it's game day or a cozy family dinner, these poppers never fail to impress. Trust me, once you try them, you'll want to make them again and again!

Created by

Marigold Pearson

Last updated on 2026-01-12T07:33:35.377Z

When I made Jalapeno Poppers for the first time, I was amazed at how simple yet satisfying the process was. I used fresh jalapenos, which I not only deseeded but also stuffed with a luscious cream cheese mixture. The secret? Adding garlic powder and a sprinkle of smoked paprika for extra depth of flavor! This little twist took them to another level.

While baking, I experimented with different toppings, from crispy bacon bits to tangy scallions. The poppers turned out golden brown and irresistibly cheesy. It’s all in how you choose to customize them; feel free to get creative with the seasonings!

Why You'll Love These Poppers
Irresistibly creamy filling with a spicy kick
Perfect finger food for any gathering
Easy to customize with various toppings and spices

Key Ingredient Highlights

The main stars of jalapeno poppers are, of course, the jalapenos themselves. Using fresh, firm jalapenos is key to achieving the right texture and flavor balance. When selecting jalapenos, look for those with smooth skin and a vibrant green color. If you prefer a milder version, you can choose larger jalapenos, as they typically have fewer seeds, resulting in less heat.

The cream cheese filling is essential for that signature creaminess. Softening the cream cheese before mixing ensures a smooth and easy-to-spread consistency. I like to let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before I start. It’s also versatile; you can substitute half of the cream cheese with goat cheese for an extra tangy flavor, if desired.

Perfecting the Baking Process

Baking the jalapeno poppers at 375°F (190°C) is optimal for ensuring the jalapenos cook thoroughly without burning the cheese. Keep an eye on them after about 15 minutes; you want them tender with a slight char on the edges but not overly browned. Using parchment paper prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze, a tip I always apply for easy serving afterward.

After baking, let the poppers cool for a few minutes to firm up slightly. This not only makes them easier to handle but also allows the cheese to set perfectly for that gooey consistency. If there are leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for about 10 minutes to retain that freshly baked texture.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients before you start for a smoother cooking experience!

For the Jalapeno Poppers

12 fresh jalapenos
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp salt
6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled (optional)
Cooking spray

Make sure to prepare the poppers right before baking for the best texture.

Instructions

Preparing these Jalapeno Poppers is straightforward; let's dive into the steps!

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Prepare the Jalapenos

Wear gloves to handle the jalapenos. Slice each jalapeno in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes.

Make the Filling

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

Stuff the Jalapenos

Spoon the cream cheese mixture into each jalapeno half. If using bacon, sprinkle crumbled bacon on top.

Bake

Place the stuffed jalapenos on the prepared baking sheet and spray lightly with cooking spray. Bake for 20 minutes or until the jalapenos are tender and the cheese is bubbly.

Serve

Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your spicy, cheesy poppers!

Serve these poppers hot for the best experience!

Pro Tips

For an extra crispy texture, broil the poppers for an additional 2-3 minutes after baking. Just keep an eye on them to avoid burning!

Serving Suggestions

These jalapeno poppers are incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. They work well as appetizers for any gathering, but I also enjoy pairing them with dips like ranch or blue cheese for added flavor depth. For a twist, consider serving them on a bed of mixed greens, adding a refreshing crunch alongside the spicy poppers.

You can also customize the toppings based on your preferences. Experiment with different cheeses, such as pepper jack for an extra kick, or add chopped green onions for a fresh finish. If you're catering to diverse tastes, try sprinkling half with bacon and the other half without to accommodate vegetarian guests.

Variations and Customizations

Don’t hesitate to get creative with your jalapeno poppers! Adding different spices to the cream cheese mixture can elevate the flavors significantly. For instance, a dash of cayenne for extra heat, or some Italian herbs for a Mediterranean flair, can transform the taste profile completely.

If you're feeling adventurous, consider stuffing the jalapenos with a mixture of pulled chicken or shrimp before adding the cream cheese. This also adds protein and makes each popper more substantial, perfect for a heartier appetizer option. Just make sure the filling is cooked before assembling.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these poppers ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare and stuff them a few hours in advance, then bake them right before serving.

→ What can I substitute for cream cheese?

You can use mascarpone or ricotta cheese as a lighter alternative.

→ Are these poppers very spicy?

The spiciness depends on the type of jalapenos used; you can reduce heat by removing more of the seeds.

→ Can I freeze the Jalapeno Poppers?

Definitely! Freeze them before baking, then bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.