Jalapeno Poppers with Cheddar

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Cheddar
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 poppers
Ingredients: 12 fresh jalapeno peppers; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional); Cooking spray or oil for greasing

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making Jalapeno Poppers with Cheddar for parties and gatherings. The combination of spicy jalapenos, creamy cheese, and savory seasonings always gets rave reviews from my friends and family. These poppers are not only quick to prepare but also pack a flavorful punch that keeps everyone coming back for more. Plus, they are versatile enough to be served as an appetizer or a snack. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and experience the delight of these tasty bites!

Created by

Sophia Lane

Last updated on 2026-01-10T12:34:17.412Z

Making Jalapeno Poppers with Cheddar has become a cherished tradition in my kitchen. I remember the first time I attempted this recipe; I was amazed at how simple the process was. By mixing cream cheese with shredded cheddar and spices, I discovered the perfect creamy filling that perfectly balances the heat of the jalapenos.

One key tip I learned along the way is to adjust the filling based on your heat tolerance. If you prefer milder flavors, feel free to deseed the jalapenos before stuffing them. This small adjustment can make a huge difference while still keeping the poppers delicious!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Perfect combination of spicy and cheesy flavors
Easy to make and great for parties
Can be adjusted to your heat preference

      

Mastering the Jalapeno Prep

When preparing the jalapenos, it’s essential to have a sharp paring knife and a sturdy cutting board. Make the lengthwise cuts even to ensure that they cook uniformly. I recommend wearing gloves while handling the jalapenos to protect your skin from the spicy oils. If you want a milder flavor, make sure to remove as much of the membrane and seeds as possible, as they contain most of the heat.

After cutting the jalapenos, you might find that some are more potent than others. A good way to test the heat level is to taste a small piece of the raw pepper. If you're looking for a milder experience, choose thicker-walled jalapenos, as they tend to be slightly less spicy. For those who enjoy a fiery kick, leaving some membrane will enhance that spicy punch.

The Creamy Filling

The cream cheese acts as the base for the filling, providing a rich and creamy texture that balances the jalapeno’s heat. For an extra kick, consider adding some diced cooked bacon or crumbled sausage to the mixture. These will not only boost flavor but also provide a savory element that complements the cheese beautifully. Additionally, mixing in some chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or chives can elevate the flavor profile.

If you're looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt or cottage cheese can be used as a substitute for cream cheese, giving you a slightly tangy filling while maintaining the desired creaminess. Just be sure to adjust the seasonings as these alternatives may alter the taste slightly. Whipping the cream cheese until light and fluffy before mixing in the other ingredients can create an even silkier filling.

Storing and Reheating Poppers

If you’re prepping these jalapeno poppers ahead of time, you can assemble them, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Make sure to let them sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before baking, as this allows for even cooking. If you have leftover poppers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat them in an oven set to 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to regain that crispy texture.

For long-term storage, jalapeno poppers can be frozen. After baking and cooling completely, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze for a couple of hours, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can stay good in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, bake straight from the freezer at 375°F (190°C) for an additional 10-15 minutes until heated through.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Jalapeno Poppers with Cheddar:

Ingredients

12 fresh jalapeno peppers
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
Cooking spray or oil for greasing

Now that you have all your ingredients, let's move on to the cooking process.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious Jalapeno Poppers with Cheddar:

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes with a spoon. This will help reduce the heat.

Make the Filling

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

Stuff the Jalapenos

Using a spoon, fill each jalapeno half with the cheese mixture, pressing it in gently and heaping it on top for extra flavor.

Add Breadcrumbs

If using, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top of the stuffed jalapenos for added crunch.

Bake

Place the stuffed jalapenos on a greased baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the jalapenos are tender and the cheese is bubbly.

Serve

Once done, remove the poppers from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your delicious jalapeno poppers!

These poppers make for a fantastic snack or appetizer!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor twist, try adding crumbled bacon or different cheese types like pepper jack to your filling.

Variations on the Classic

Feel free to experiment with cheese blends for your filling. Varieties such as pepper jack, feta, or even blue cheese can give a unique twist to the classic jalapeno popper. Each cheese will not only vary the flavor but also the melting quality, so be sure to adjust baking times if needed. Adding different herbs, spices, or even a dash of hot sauce can also give your poppers a personalized touch.

If you're looking for a gluten-free option, simply omit the breadcrumbs or use gluten-free alternatives made from almond flour or crushed rice crackers. These options can still offer that desired crunch without compromising the overall integrity of the popper. An air fryer is another great tool for making jalapeno poppers, yielding a crispy result with less oil than traditional frying.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your poppers come out too spicy, you can always serve them with a cooling dip, such as ranch or sour cream, to balance the heat. Alternatively, adding a bit of honey to your cheese mixture can create a sweet and spicy experience that balances the heat effectively. It's all about finding that perfect flavor balance for your palate.

If you find that the cheese mixture is too runny, try adding a bit more shredded cheese or even cornstarch to help bind it together. Mixing the ingredients thoroughly is key; ensure that there are no large lumps of cream cheese remaining, as they could result in uneven cooking. Always check for visual cues: the cheese should be bubbly and slightly browned at the edges once fully baked.

Serving Suggestions

These jalapeno poppers are incredibly versatile and can take center stage at any party or gathering. Pair them with a crisp, light salad for a refreshing contrast or serve them alongside a variety of dipping sauces to enhance the flavor experience. Guacamole, salsa, or even a chipotle mayo can be excellent accompaniments that appeal to a range of tastes.

When serving, present the poppers on a large platter garnished with fresh herbs or lime wedges, which not only look visually appealing but also add a burst of freshness. For a themed party, consider offering a 'popper bar' with various fillings and toppings so guests can create their own customized jalapeno poppers!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these poppers in advance?

Yes, you can prepare and stuff the jalapenos a day ahead. Just cover them and refrigerate until you're ready to bake.

→ What if I want a milder version?

You can deseed and remove the membranes of the jalapenos to reduce the heat, and use sweet peppers instead.

→ Can I freeze jalapeno poppers?

Absolutely! Freeze them before baking on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag and bake directly from frozen when needed.

→ What can I serve with jalapeno poppers?

They pair wonderfully with ranch dressing, sour cream, or your favorite dipping sauce!