Jalapeno Poppers Easy Recipe

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

Discover the perfect blend of spicy and cheesy with these easy-to-make Jalapeno Poppers. Ideal for a snack or party appetizer!

Eliza Thornton

Created by

Eliza Thornton

Last updated on 2026-01-04T12:55:09.457Z

These Jalapeno Poppers are a crowd favorite, combining the heat of jalapenos with a creamy cheese filling. Perfect for game day or any gathering!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • The perfect balance of heat and creaminess
  • Great for sharing at parties or gatherings
  • Easily customizable with various fillings

Perfect for Any Occasion

Jalapeno poppers are not just a snack; they are an experience! Whether you are hosting a game day party, a barbecue, or a casual get-together, these poppers are bound to be a hit. Their vibrant colors and enticing aroma will draw your guests in, making them the perfect appetizer to kick off any gathering.

The great thing about these jalapeno poppers is their versatility. They can be served as a finger food during parties, a spicy snack for movie nights, or even as a side dish for a main course. Their delicious combination of flavors and textures makes them a fantastic addition to almost any meal.

Customizing Your Poppers

One of the best aspects of this jalapeno popper recipe is how easily it can be customized to suit your tastes. If you love a little extra kick, consider adding diced jalapenos or hot sauce to the cream cheese mixture. Alternatively, you can mix in cooked bacon, chorizo, or even vegetables for a unique twist.

For those who prefer a milder flavor, you can substitute the fresh jalapenos with milder peppers like bell peppers or banana peppers. This allows everyone to enjoy the deliciousness of cheesy stuffed peppers without overwhelming heat. The possibilities are endless!

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving jalapeno poppers, pairing them with a dipping sauce can elevate the dish even further. A creamy ranch dressing or a zesty salsa can complement the spicy flavors beautifully, providing a refreshing contrast. Additionally, consider serving them alongside tortilla chips for a fun and interactive snack experience.

For a complete meal, serve these poppers alongside grilled meats or a fresh salad. The heat from the jalapenos combined with the richness of the cheese can create a delightful balance when enjoyed with other dishes. No matter how you serve them, these poppers are sure to please!

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Jalapeno Poppers:

Ingredients

  • 12 fresh jalapenos
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Cooking spray or olive oil for baking

Once you have all your ingredients, you are ready to start preparing your poppers!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make delicious Jalapeno Poppers:

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes for less heat.

Make the Filling

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

Fill the Jalapenos

Spoon the cheese mixture into each jalapeno half, filling them generously.

Coat with Breadcrumbs

Sprinkle breadcrumbs over the filled jalapenos for added texture.

Bake

Place the jalapenos on a baking sheet and spray lightly with cooking spray. Bake for 15 minutes or until golden brown.

Once baked, let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your homemade Jalapeno Poppers!

Secondary image

Pro Tips

  • For extra flavor, try adding cooked bacon bits to the cheese filling.

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftover jalapeno poppers, storing them properly is key to maintaining their deliciousness. Allow them to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, making them a great option for meal prep or quick snacks later on.

For longer storage, consider freezing the poppers before baking. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. When you're ready to enjoy them, bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes. This way, you can have fresh poppers ready whenever the craving strikes!

Pairing Drinks

Jalapeno poppers pair wonderfully with a variety of drinks, enhancing their spicy flavors. If you're hosting a gathering, consider serving them with cold beers, particularly pale ales or IPAs, which can help balance the heat. If you prefer cocktails, a refreshing mojito or a classic margarita can complement the poppers beautifully.

For non-alcoholic options, try serving them with sparkling water infused with lime or a chilled hibiscus tea. These drinks not only provide a refreshing contrast to the heat but also help cleanse the palate, making each popper taste just as delicious as the first.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these Jalapeno Poppers ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare them and then refrigerate before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

→ What can I substitute for cream cheese?

You can use ricotta cheese or Greek yogurt for a lighter option.

→ Are Jalapeno Poppers spicy?

They can be spicy, but removing the seeds and membranes reduces the heat significantly.

→ Can I grill these instead of baking?

Absolutely! Grilling them adds a nice smoky flavor. Just be sure to keep an eye on them to avoid burning.

Jalapeno Poppers Easy Recipe

Discover the perfect blend of spicy and cheesy with these easy-to-make Jalapeno Poppers. Ideal for a snack or party appetizer!

Prep Time20 minutes
Cooking Duration15 minutes
Overall Time35 minutes

Created by: Eliza Thornton

Recipe Type: Quick & Easy

Skill Level: Beginner

Final Quantity: 12 poppers

What You'll Need

Ingredients

  1. 12 fresh jalapenos
  2. 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  3. 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  4. 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  5. 1 tsp garlic powder
  6. 1 tsp onion powder
  7. Salt and pepper to taste
  8. Cooking spray or olive oil for baking

How-To Steps

Step 01

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes for less heat.

Step 02

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

Step 03

Spoon the cheese mixture into each jalapeno half, filling them generously.

Step 04

Sprinkle breadcrumbs over the filled jalapenos for added texture.

Step 05

Place the jalapenos on a baking sheet and spray lightly with cooking spray. Bake for 15 minutes or until golden brown.

Extra Tips

  1. For extra flavor, try adding cooked bacon bits to the cheese filling.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 180 kcal
  • Total Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg
  • Sodium: 200mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Dietary Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: 1g
  • Protein: 6g