Jalapeno Poppers with Cheddar Filling

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Cheddar Filling
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 poppers
Ingredients: 12 fresh jalapeno peppers; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup green onions, chopped; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 1/2 tsp paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil for drizzling

Highlighted under: Everyday Planning

I absolutely love making Jalapeno Poppers with Cheddar Filling for a fun appetizer or snack. The process of hollowing out the jalapenos and filling them with a creamy, cheesy mixture is both satisfying and delicious. I enjoy the way the spicy kick of the jalapenos contrasts with the smooth cheese, making it a crowd-pleaser at parties or during game nights. These poppers are baked to perfection, which allows them to get delightfully crispy while ensuring the filling remains rich and flavorful.

Created by

Briar Kensington

Last updated on 2026-01-13T02:00:36.438Z

When I first tried making Jalapeno Poppers, I was amazed at how simple yet rewarding the process was. The combination of spicy jalapenos and creamy cheddar filling creates an unforgettable flavor explosion. I found that a blend of spices in the filling makes a significant difference, so don’t skip the seasoning!

One of my favorite tips is to bake them instead of frying for a healthier twist. I often drizzle a little olive oil on top before placing them in the oven to ensure they get that golden-brown color without all the extra grease. Trust me, your guests won’t be able to resist these!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A perfect spicy and cheesy balance that delights the senses
Easy-to-follow steps make it simple to impress your guests
Versatile recipe allows for creative variations with different cheeses

      

Preparing the Jalapenos

Hollowing out the jalapeno peppers is a crucial step in this recipe. To achieve the ideal balance of flavor and heat, I recommend using a small spoon or a corer to gently scoop out the seeds and membranes. This will significantly reduce the heat, making it more enjoyable for those who may not handle spice well. For a spicier variation, leave a few seeds in or opt for spicier varieties of jalapenos.

Once you've halved the jalapenos, a good rinse under cold water can help remove any lingering seeds. You might notice that some peppers are riper than others; these can also be noticeably hotter. It's a good idea to taste a small piece of one for an idea of the overall spice level before proceeding, as this can guide how you season the filling.

Crafting the Filling

The filling for your poppers is what brings all the flavors together. Cream cheese plays a vital role here, providing a rich, creamy base that adds moisture and helps bind the shredded cheddar cheese, green onions, and spices together. Make sure your cream cheese is softened at room temperature to ensure a smooth mixture. Using an electric mixer can help achieve this consistency if you're short on time.

Feel free to experiment with the cheese blend in this filling. While cheddar is classic, combining it with other cheeses such as pepper jack or mozzarella can introduce different flavor profiles and textures. Just remember to maintain a balance of creamy and melty cheeses to keep the filling cohesive.

Baking and Serving Hints

When placing the jalapeno poppers on a baking sheet, lining it with parchment paper can prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. Bake them in a preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on them—look for a bubbling filling and a golden-brown top, which indicates that they are done. If they’re not browning as quickly, you can switch to broil for the last few minutes, but watch closely to prevent burning.

These poppers are best served hot out of the oven, but they can also be made ahead. Prepare and fill them, then store uncooked in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. You can even freeze them for longer storage; just remember to bake from frozen, allowing an extra 5-10 minutes in the oven.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your Jalapeno Poppers:

Ingredients

12 fresh jalapeno peppers
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup green onions, chopped
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for drizzling

Ensure all ingredients are prepared before starting the cooking process for best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your Jalapeno Poppers:

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Carefully slice each jalapeno in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes to reduce spiciness, if desired.

Make the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the cheddar cheese, cream cheese, green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and well blended.

Fill the Jalapenos

Spoon the cheese mixture into the hollowed-out jalapeno halves, packing it in generously.

Bake the Poppers

Place the stuffed jalapenos on a baking sheet and drizzle olive oil over them. Bake for 15 minutes or until the tops are golden and bubbly.

Allow the poppers to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your delicious creation!

Pro Tips

For an extra crunch, consider adding breadcrumbs on top of the cheese mixture before baking. You can also swap the cheddar for your favorite cheese, like pepper jack for an extra kick.

Variations and Creative Twists

If you're looking to switch things up, consider adding cooked and crumbled bacon into the cheese mixture for a smoky, savory addition. You can also incorporate diced jalapenos or other peppers into the filling for added texture and spice. Additionally, experiment with aromatic herbs like fresh cilantro or parsley to give your poppers a fresh twist.

For a tangy explosion, top the baked poppers with a drizzle of hot sauce or a dollop of sour cream. Serving alongside a homemade dip, such as ranch or avocado crema, can also elevate the overall experience. The key is to keep the flavor balanced so that the zing of the toppings complements the creaminess of the filling.

Make-Ahead and Storage

These jalapeno poppers can be made ahead of time, making them perfect for parties and gatherings. Once filled, you can store them in an airtight container in your refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just ensure they are covered securely to avoid drying out and losing flavor.

If you're looking to prepare them further in advance, freeze the unbaked poppers. Lay them flat on a baking sheet first to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag for longer storage. When ready to bake, just pop them straight into the oven from frozen—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure they're heated through.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these poppers ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare them up to the baking step and store them in the refrigerator. When you're ready, just bake them as instructed.

→ What can I use instead of jalapenos?

If you prefer less heat, you can substitute poblano peppers or even sweet mini peppers for a milder version.

→ Are these poppers vegetarian?

Absolutely! These Jalapeno Poppers are completely vegetarian, featuring cheese and vegetables as the main ingredients.

→ Can I freeze the filled jalapenos?

Yes, you can freeze the stuffed jalapenos. Just make sure to wrap them tightly. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.