Jalapeno Poppers with Cheddar Filling

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Cheddar Filling
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 fresh jalapenos; 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; 4 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp onion powder; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated

Highlighted under: Easy Baking Recipes

I absolutely adore making Jalapeno Poppers with Cheddar Filling because they’re the perfect blend of spicy and creamy. The first time I tried them, the colors and flavors burst in my mouth, and I knew I had to recreate the magic in my kitchen. Every bite is a delicious combination of crispy texture and gooey cheese, making it hard to eat just one! Ideal as appetizers for gatherings or simply for a cozy night in, these poppers never fail to impress.

Created by

Amelia Roberts

Last updated on 2026-01-13T06:05:36.743Z

Creating Jalapeno Poppers with Cheddar Filling has become a cherished weekend ritual for me. I enjoy experimenting with the spice levels; some days I like them fiery hot, while other times I prefer a milder version. The secret is in how you prepare the jalapenos—removing the seeds and membranes can help tame their heat. Once I started roasting them first, the flavors mellowed and intensified beautifully.

I've learned that the choice of cheese significantly affects the overall taste. A sharp cheddar adds a fantastic depth, while a bit of cream cheese creates that irresistible creamy texture. When I mix the two and add seasonings, I can’t resist sneaking a taste before they even hit the oven! Pair them with a zesty dipping sauce, and you’ll be in culinary heaven.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Spicy jalapenos balanced with creamy cheddar filling
Perfect for game day or any fun gathering
Easily customizable with different cheeses or add-ins

      

Techniques for the Perfect Filling

A well-balanced filling is crucial for delicious jalapeno poppers. The cream cheese acts as a base, providing a creamy texture that complements the sharpness of cheddar. Remember to soften the cream cheese beforehand; this ensures that it blends smoothly with the cheddar and spices. Take the time to fully mix the ingredients until the mixture is homogenous. This way, you avoid uneven bites — no one wants a mouthful of pure cream cheese!

If you like an extra kick, consider integrating finely chopped cooked bacon or crumbled sausage into the filling. This adds a savory depth that pairs wonderfully with the spicy jalapenos. Just be sure not to overfill the poppers, as the filling should stay contained during cooking. I find that leaving about a 1/4-inch clearance at the top keeps them from spilling over and creating a mess in the oven.

Baking and Achieving Golden Crispiness

Baking is key to achieving the perfect texture for jalapeno poppers. Make sure your oven is fully preheated to 400°F (200°C) before placing the poppers inside; this helps them cook evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes, but keep an eye on them towards the end. They should have a golden-brown top and be bubbling slightly for that perfect crispy finish. If you find they need a bit more color, a quick broil for 1-2 minutes can add that final touch, just don’t walk away!

The breadcrumb and Parmesan topping not only adds crunch but also helps absorb moisture, ensuring the filling doesn’t become too soggy. For an even tastier variation, try mixing in some spices or herbs into the breadcrumbs. A dash of smoked paprika or Italian seasoning can elevate the flavor profile even further. Just make sure to evenly distribute the topping over each popper for consistent crunch.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to start making your Jalapeno Poppers:

Ingredients

8 fresh jalapenos
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
4 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated

Make sure to have everything ready before you get started!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your poppers:

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes using a small spoon.

Make the Filling

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

Fill the Jalapenos

Spoon the cheese mixture into each jalapeno half, ensuring they are generously filled.

Coat with Breadcrumbs

Combine breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle this mixture over the filled jalapenos for a crispy topping.

Bake

Place the jalapenos on a baking sheet and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until the tops are golden brown and bubbly.

Serve and Enjoy

Allow the jalapeno poppers to cool for a few minutes before serving. Pair them with a dipping sauce of your choice and enjoy!

These jalapeno poppers are best served warm.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding cooked bacon bits to the cheese filling. You can also play with different cheeses to find your perfect flavor combo.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Jalapeno poppers can be made ahead of time, making them ideal for gatherings. You can prepare them up until the baking step, cover them with plastic wrap, and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, increase the baking time slightly since they will be cold from the refrigerator. Always check for that lovely golden color to ensure they are fully cooked.

If you have leftover poppers, simply store them in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes; this will help retain their crispiness. Alternatively, reheating them in an air fryer can make them even crunchier, just keep a close watch to prevent burning.

Serving Suggestions

Pairing your jalapeno poppers with a delicious dipping sauce can enhance the overall experience. A simple ranch or blue cheese dressing complements the heat beautifully. For a zesty twist, try a cilantro-lime crema or spicy aioli. These sauces not only add flavor but also bring a cooling element that balances the spiciness of the jalapenos.

If you’re looking to make a meal out of these poppers, serve them alongside a fresh garden salad or some tortilla chips and salsa. This transforms them into a fun Tex-Mex appetizer or snack. They are also fantastic with a cold beverage—beer or a margarita pairs wonderfully with jalapeno poppers. Celebrate the flavors together.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these poppers ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare them up to the baking stage and refrigerate them. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they are cold from the fridge.

→ Are these suitable for freezing?

Absolutely! You can freeze the filled jalapenos before baking. Just freeze them in a single layer and then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the time.

→ How can I adjust the spice level?

To reduce the heat, be sure to remove all the seeds and veins inside the jalapenos. For more heat, leave some seeds or use hotter varieties like serranos.

→ Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with any cheese you enjoy. Gouda, pepper jack, or even a mix of cheeses can add great flavor.