Jalapeno Poppers with Cream Cheese

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Cream Cheese
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12 poppers
Ingredients: 12 large jalapenos; 8 ounces cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; Optional: bacon bits for topping

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I love making Jalapeno Poppers with Cream Cheese for gatherings because they are always a crowd-pleaser! The combination of spicy jalapenos and the creamy, savory filling creates a delightful contrast that keeps everyone coming back for more. I typically prepare a large batch, as they tend to disappear quickly. Plus, they are incredibly easy to make and can be baked or fried, depending on your preference. This dish is perfect for game day, parties, or simply a tasty snack at home.

Created by

Noemi Turner

Last updated on 2026-01-11T21:07:15.372Z

When I first attempted making Jalapeno Poppers, I was pleasantly surprised by how easy it was to elevate such simple ingredients. The key to getting that creamy texture is to use a combination of cream cheese and cheddar, which melts beautifully and enhances the flavor of the jalapenos. After experimenting, I found that adding a pinch of garlic powder really brings the filling to life. It’s a small detail that makes a significant difference!

Over the years, I've shared these poppers at many parties, and they are always a hit. I learned that baking them instead of frying not only gives them a nice crispiness but also cuts down on the grease. I like to serve them with a tangy dipping sauce for an added kick, which makes them even more enjoyable.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Irresistible spicy and creamy flavor combination
Perfect for parties, gatherings, or a relaxing night in
Easy to customize with different cheeses or spices

      

Tips for Perfect Jalapeno Poppers

When preparing your jalapeno poppers, consider the heat level you desire. Removing all the seeds and white pith will greatly reduce the spice, making them more palatable for those who prefer milder flavors. However, if you're catering to a crowd that enjoys a kick, leave some seeds intact or even add a few extra spicy flavors such as smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to the cream cheese mixture for a zesty punch.

To get the right texture for your filling, ensure that your cream cheese is at room temperature. This makes it easier to mix with the other ingredients, creating a smooth and creamy filling. If you find it difficult to combine, you can use an electric mixer to achieve a fluffy consistency. The cream cheese serves as the base, providing richness, while the cheddar cheese adds depth and enhances the flavor profile.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

If you want to prep ahead, you can prepare the stuffed jalapenos a day in advance. After filling them, cover the baking sheet with plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator. When you're ready to bake, just pop them into the preheated oven, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if they are cold from the fridge. This makes them an excellent option for parties or game day gatherings.

Once baked, these jalapeno poppers are best enjoyed warm to appreciate the creamy filling and tender jalapeno. You can serve them with a variety of dipping sauces like ranch, sour cream, or a spicy salsa. For an extra layer of flavor, a drizzle of balsamic glaze or a sprinkling of fresh herbs can elevate the dish, making it not just tasty but visually appealing as well.

Ingredients

For the Jalapeno Poppers

12 large jalapenos
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Optional: bacon bits for topping

Instructions

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds for a milder flavor, or leave some seeds for extra heat.

Make the Filling

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

Fill the Jalapenos

Using a spoon, fill each jalapeno half generously with the cheese mixture. If desired, sprinkle bacon bits on top for added flavor.

Bake the Poppers

Arrange the stuffed jalapenos on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the jalapenos are tender and the filling is bubbly and golden.

Serve

Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy warm with a dipping sauce of your choice!

Pro Tips

For a spicier version, you can add chopped fresh jalapenos or even a dash of hot sauce to the cream cheese filling. For extra presentation, you can sprinkle fresh herbs like chives on top before serving.

Variations to Try

Feel free to get creative with your jalapeno poppers. For a twist, consider mixing in other cheeses, such as pepper jack for a spicy creaminess or feta for a tangy kick. You can also add sautéed onions or diced tomatoes into the filling for extra texture and flavor. If you want a Mediterranean flair, try seasoning with oregano and serving with tzatziki sauce.

For a healthier version, you could swap the cream cheese for avocado, mixed with lime juice and spices. This adds a creamy texture while keeping the dish lighter. Alternatively, you could use low-fat cream cheese if you’re looking to reduce calories without sacrificing too much flavor.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find that the poppers are too spicy, you can cool them down by serving them with a cooling dip or adding more cream cheese to your filling. Also, ensure you don’t overbake them; look for a golden top and bubbling filling to avoid a dry or rubbery texture, which can happen if left in the oven too long.

Another common issue is the filling oozing out. To prevent this, make sure you fill the jalapenos generously but don’t overstuff them. Additionally, using larger jalapenos can provide more real estate for the filling, reducing the risk of spillage during the baking process.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make Jalapeno Poppers ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare them a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Just bake them right before serving.

→ How can I make these poppers vegetarian?

Simply omit bacon and focus on flavorful cheeses and seasonings in the filling.

→ What dipping sauces pair well with Jalapeno Poppers?

Some good options are ranch dressing, sour cream, or a tangy barbecue sauce.

→ Can I freeze Jalapeno Poppers?

Yes, you can freeze them before baking. Just make sure to thaw them before baking when you're ready to enjoy.