Jalapeno Poppers with Cheddar

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Cheddar
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 fresh jalapenos; 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup breadcrumbs; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil spray

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making Jalapeno Poppers with Cheddar for gatherings and game days. The combination of spicy jalapenos filled with rich, creamy cheddar cheese creates an irresistible flavor that is simply delectable. What makes these poppers truly special is the crispy exterior that contrasts perfectly with the soft, cheesy filling inside. I promise they will disappear in no time when served fresh from the oven. Plus, they are easy to prepare, making them a go-to snack in my kitchen!

Created by

Fiona Carter

Last updated on 2026-01-11T21:25:09.828Z

Making Jalapeno Poppers has become a cherished tradition in my home. The process of preparing these snacks is straightforward, and the delightful aroma that fills my kitchen while they bake is truly enticing. I love experimenting with different cheese blends to find the perfect flavor balance, but cheddar remains my favorite for its sharpness.

One key tip I’ve learned is to adjust the spice level according to your preference. You can control the heat by choosing larger or smaller jalapenos and even removing some of the seeds. Trust me, this simple adjustment can make a huge difference in how much everyone enjoys them!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Deliciously spicy with a cheesy depth
Perfect for parties or movie nights with friends
Quick and easy to prepare, even for beginners

      

Perfecting Your Pepper Prep

When preparing jalapenos, the way you handle them can significantly affect the final flavor of your poppers. For a spicier kick, retain some seeds and ribs, but if you're aiming for a more mild snack, carefully remove all seeds and ribs with a small spoon or knife. Be sure to wear gloves while handling the peppers to protect your skin from irritation caused by the capsaicin.

After slicing the peppers, give them a quick rinse under cold water to remove any lingering seeds. This extra step can reduce the heat level and create a more balanced flavor profile. After rinsing, pat the peppers dry with a paper towel to ensure the filling adheres well and the poppers bake up crispy.

Crafting the Ideal Cheese Filling

The cheese filling is where the magic happens! For a creamier texture, make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature; this also helps to blend the cheeses smoothly. Mixing the shredded sharp cheddar with the cream cheese not only adds depth of flavor but also contributes to a rich, gooey consistency that holds up during baking. If you’re adventurous, try adding shredded mozzarella for a stretchier texture.

Feel free to customize the filling by incorporating additional ingredients such as cooked bacon bits, chopped green onions, or even diced tomatoes for a twist. However, be mindful not to overfill the peppers; aim to keep the mixture within the edges to prevent spillage during baking, which can lead to a messy outcome.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients before starting to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Ingredients for Jalapeno Poppers

12 fresh jalapenos
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil spray

Now that you have all your ingredients, you are ready to start preparing the poppers.

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your jalapeno poppers perfectly crispy every time.

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Prepare the jalapenos

Slice the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and ribs for a milder flavor.

Make the filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the cheddar cheese, cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Stuff the jalapenos

Fill each jalapeno half with the cheese mixture, packing it in generously.

Add breadcrumbs

Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the stuffed jalapenos for added crunch.

Bake the poppers

Lightly spray the poppers with olive oil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until golden and bubbly.

Serve warm

Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your delicious jalapeno poppers!

Enjoy these delightful poppers with your favorite dipping sauce or on their own!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding crumbled bacon to the filling mixture. You can also serve these poppers with ranch dressing or a spicy aioli for dipping.

Serving Suggestions

These jalapeno poppers make a fantastic appetizer, but they can also shine as a fun main course. Pair them with a side of homemade ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping. Additionally, serving a fresh salad or a cool yogurt dip can help balance the heat from the peppers, making for a delightful meal.

Consider serving the poppers alongside a selection of other finger foods for parties. They complement classic items like chicken wings and sliders beautifully. Create a platter that showcases a variety of flavors and serve them with a refreshing beverage to cleanse the palate after each spicy bite.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftover jalapeno poppers, you can store them easily for later enjoyment. Simply place them in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheating them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 to 15 minutes will help restore their crispiness, making them taste freshly baked again.

For longer storage, consider freezing uncooked, stuffed jalapenos. Place the prepared poppers on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer bag once solid. When ready to bake, cook them straight from the freezer, adding an extra five minutes to the baking time, ensuring a hot and gooey treat when served.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare jalapeno poppers ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the poppers in advance and refrigerate them. Bake them just before serving for the best results.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes before serving.

→ Are these poppers spicy?

The spice level can be adjusted according to your preference. Removing the seeds will make them less spicy.

→ Can I use different cheeses?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match cheeses like pepper jack or mozzarella for a unique flavor.