Jalapeno Poppers with Creamy Spinach Dip

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Creamy Spinach Dip
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 fresh jalapenos; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped; 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/4 cup sour cream; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil for drizzling

Highlighted under: Cozy Comfort Food Recipes

I absolutely love making Jalapeno Poppers with Creamy Spinach Dip for gatherings. The first time I crafted this recipe, I was captivated by how the creamy filling complemented the spicy jalapenos so perfectly. It's become a favorite in my home, and every bite is a delightful explosion of flavors. The blend of cream cheese, spinach, and spices creates a tangy dip that enhances the poppers beautifully. Whether it's a game night or a casual get-together, these poppers are always the star of the show.

Created by

Amelia Roberts

Last updated on 2026-01-14T08:29:35.091Z

When I first made these Jalapeno Poppers, I was skeptical about balancing the heat with the creaminess of the dip. But once I combined the bold flavors of jalapenos with the rich spinach and cream cheese mixture, everything changed. I learned that roasting the jalapenos enhances their sweetness, which balances the spicy kick perfectly.

This recipe is a great way to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. I make sure to serve them hot and fresh, accompanied by an extra dollop of the creamy spinach dip. Trust me, it keeps everyone coming back for more!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A perfect blend of spicy and creamy flavors
Easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser
Great for parties or game day gatherings

      

Key Techniques for Perfect Poppers

A critical technique for ensuring your Jalapeno Poppers turn out perfectly is controlling the heat. When cutting the jalapenos, if you prefer a milder flavor, make sure to remove all the seeds and membranes, as they harbor most of the spice. If you like the heat, you can keep some of the seeds in the filling for an extra kick. Experimenting with the level of heat allows you to cater the poppers to your personal taste or that of your guests.

Another key technique is ensuring your filling is well-blended. The cream cheese should be soft enough to mix easily, creating a smooth texture that fills the jalapenos without any lumps. Using a hand mixer can save you time, but mixing by hand with a sturdy spatula will also do the trick. Just blend until the mixture is glossy and homogenous, and all ingredients are evenly distributed for maximum flavor in every bite.

Ingredient Insights and Variations

The choice of spices in this recipe plays a vital role in enhancing the flavors of the poppers. Garlic powder and onion powder add depth to the creamy filling, complementing the freshness of the spinach. Feel free to experiment with additional spices like smoked paprika or even a dash of cayenne for a kick! Alternatively, using flavored cream cheese can give the filling an unexpected twist, so don't hesitate to explore different options available at the store.

In terms of cheese, while sharp cheddar is a delicious choice, you can easily swap it for pepper jack for added flavor or mozzarella for a milder impact. If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, try using Greek yogurt in place of sour cream, which will keep the creaminess while adding protein. For a vegan version, substitute cream cheese and cheddar with plant-based alternatives, and adjust seasonings to suit your palate.

Storage Tips and Serving Suggestions

If you have leftovers, store your Jalapeno Poppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For best results, reheat them in an oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, which will help restore their crispness. You can also freeze them before baking. Arrange the filled jalapenos on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. When you're ready to eat, bake straight from frozen, adding 5 to 10 extra minutes to the cooking time.

When it comes to serving, these poppers are best enjoyed warm but can also be part of a larger spread of appetizers. Pair them with guacamole or salsa to complement the flavors. For a twist, consider serving them alongside a cooling dip made with yogurt and herbs. I often set out a variety of dips to let guests experiment with different flavor combinations, turning a simple appetizer into an interactive tasting experience.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create your delicious Jalapeno Poppers:

Ingredients

12 fresh jalapenos
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup sour cream
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for drizzling

These ingredients come together to create the ultimate party appetizer!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your Jalapeno Poppers:

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes for a milder flavor. Lightly drizzle with olive oil.

Make the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, chopped spinach, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until fully blended.

Fill the Jalapenos

Spoon the creamy spinach filling into each jalapeno half. Arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until the jalapenos are tender and the filling is bubbly.

Serve

Remove the poppers from the oven, let them cool slightly, and serve warm with extra spinach dip on the side.

Enjoy your delicious Jalapeno Poppers with Creamy Spinach Dip!

Pro Tips

If you prefer spicier poppers, don’t remove all the seeds from the jalapenos. You can also add some cooked bacon bits to the cream cheese mixture for added flavor.

Perfecting Your Poppers

To get the texture just right, it's important not to overfill the jalapenos. A heaping spoonful of filling may look appealing, but it can burst in the oven. Aim for a generous but level spoonful, smoothing it out with the back of the spoon. This ensures a perfect bake without spillage, allowing the cheese to melt just enough to be gooey but not overly runny.

If you're unsure about the spice level, start with a single jalapeno, bake it, and taste. This way, you can adjust the recipes or cooking times before making the full batch. Sometimes jalapenos can vary in heat, so this step can prevent any surprises when serving guests!

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe is highly adaptable, making it easy to scale up for larger gatherings. If you're expecting a crowd, simply double or triple the ingredients to meet your needs. Just be mindful of the baking time, as larger batches may require a few extra minutes in the oven. Arrange the poppers in a single layer on your baking sheet to ensure even cooking and browning.

Conversely, if you’re cooking for a smaller group or want a quick snack, you can halve the recipe. For easy meal planning, consider freezing any extra poppers after you fill them but before baking them. This allows you to enjoy a quick appetizer on a busy night, just by popping them in the oven! Make sure to label the bags with the date to keep track of freshness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare the poppers ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the poppers a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Just bake them right before serving.

→ What can I substitute for cream cheese?

You can use goat cheese or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative if you're looking for a lighter or lactose-free option.

→ How do I make them vegetarian?

This recipe is already vegetarian, just ensure all your ingredients are plant-based if you wish to maintain that.

→ Can I freeze the poppers?

Yes, these poppers freeze well. Just bake them from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.