Jalapeno Poppers with Cheddar Filling

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Cheddar Filling
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 poppers
Ingredients: 12 large jalapeno peppers; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup cooked bacon, crumbled; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)

Highlighted under: Soft Cooking

I absolutely love making Jalapeno Poppers with Cheddar Filling for gatherings with friends and family. These spicy, cheesy bites are always a hit, and they seem to bring people together around the appetizer table. Each popper is packed with creamy cheddar and a hint of seasoning, making them irresistible. I find that baking them gives a perfect balance of crispy skin and gooey cheese without being overly greasy, which is just how I like them.

Created by

Miranda Keats

Last updated on 2026-01-13T06:51:36.086Z

When I first tried making Jalapeno Poppers, I was amazed at how simple and delicious they turned out. I experimented with the cheese-to-jalapeno ratio until I found the perfect balance that highlighted the spicy flavor without overpowering it. Baking them rather than frying allows the flavors to meld beautifully while keeping the texture crispy and satisfying.

One tip I discovered is to use fresh jalapenos with a glossy skin, as they tend to be spicier and have a better crunch. If you're sensitive to heat, remove the seeds and membranes for a milder version that everyone can enjoy!

Why You'll Love These Poppers
Spicy kick balanced with creamy cheese
Crispy texture that contrasts delightfully with gooey filling
Perfect for parties, game days, or a fun snack

Jalapeno Selection and Preparation

Choosing the right jalapenos is crucial for achieving the desired heat and texture in your poppers. Look for firm, glossy jalapenos with a vibrant green color. Larger jalapenos provide more filling space, but you may also find smaller ones to be more manageable for snacking. Make sure to wear gloves while handling them to avoid any irritation from the oils, and when slicing, use a sharp knife for clean edges.

After slicing the jalapenos in half, removing the seeds and membranes can significantly reduce the spiciness. For those who love a bold kick, consider leaving a few seeds intact or using a variety like serranos for even more heat. Baking or roasting the jalapenos before stuffing can heighten their flavor, giving the finished dish a slight char that complements the creamy filling well.

Crafting the Perfect Filling

When making the cheese filling, quality matters. Using freshly shredded cheddar cheese instead of pre-packaged shreds ensures better melting and a creamier texture. The cream cheese serves as a rich base that balances the sharpness of the cheddar, providing that desirable gooey consistency. For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a touch of smoked paprika or even a splash of hot sauce to elevate the taste profile.

If you prefer to keep these poppers vegetarian or avoid bacon, you can substitute with sun-dried tomatoes or sautéed mushrooms to retain texture and flavor. This allows for personalization while keeping the punch of flavor intact—just be mindful to adjust salt levels as these alternatives can vary in sodium content.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare the Jalapeno Poppers:

Ingredients

12 large jalapeno peppers
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)

Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Jalapeno Poppers:

Prepare the jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Carefully slice the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes if you want a milder flavor.

Make the filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese, cream cheese, crumbled bacon, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are blended.

Stuff the jalapenos

Spoon the cheese mixture into each jalapeno half, pressing down gently to ensure the filling stays in place.

Add breadcrumbs (optional)

If you like a crispy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the stuffed jalapenos.

Bake the poppers

Place the stuffed jalapenos on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes or until the jalapenos are tender and the filling is bubbly.

Let the Jalapeno Poppers cool for a few minutes before serving.

Pro Tips

Serve with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch or blue cheese dressing for an extra layer of flavor.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Jalapeno poppers can be made ahead of time, making them an excellent choice for meal prep or gatherings. Prepare the poppers up to the baking stage, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, just pop them in the oven; you might want to add an additional 5 minutes to the baking time to ensure they're heated thoroughly.

If you end up with extra poppers, they freeze beautifully! Lay them flat on a baking sheet until frozen solid, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. To reheat, bake them directly from the freezer at 375°F (190°C) for about 30-35 minutes or until heated through and bubbly.

Serving Suggestions

These cheddar-filled jalapeno poppers can make a delightful centerpiece on any appetizer table. Pair them with a cooling dip, like ranch or sour cream with a sprinkle of chives, which helps balance the heat. For a twist, serve with a mango salsa to add a sweet contrast to the spiciness of the poppers.

For a more elaborate spread, consider incorporating various dipping sauces. A smoked chipotle mayo or a tangy barbecue sauce not only enhances the flavor but also offers a fun interactive element for guests. Arranging your poppers on a rustic platter alongside fresh veggies can elevate the presentation and encourage guests to dive in.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the poppers and refrigerate them before baking. Just pop them in the oven when you're ready to serve.

→ What can I substitute for cheese?

For a dairy-free alternative, consider using vegan cream cheese and shredded cheese options.

→ How can I make them spicier?

Leave some of the seeds and membranes in the jalapenos when preparing them to increase the heat.

→ Can I freeze Jalapeno Poppers?

Yes, you can freeze them before baking. Just wrap them tightly and bake directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.