Jalapeno Poppers with Garlic Herb Filling

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Garlic Herb Filling
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 poppers
Ingredients: 12 large jalapenos, halved and seeded; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup fresh chives, chopped; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 12 slices bacon, cut in half

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I adore making jalapeno poppers, and this garlic herb filling elevates them to a new level of deliciousness. The blend of cream cheese, fresh herbs, and a kick of garlic creates a creamy, savory filling that complements the heat of the jalapenos perfectly. Whether it’s for a gathering or a cozy night in, these poppers disappear quickly. I love how the crispy bacon adds a satisfying crunch while the herbs bring a refreshing brightness. Let’s dive into making these irresistibly tasty bites!

Created by

Fiona Carter

Last updated on 2026-01-12T03:22:18.587Z

When I first made these jalapeno poppers, I was amazed at how quickly they vanished at parties! The crispy exterior paired with the creamy garlic herb filling is simply divine. I learned that grilling the jalapenos a bit before stuffing them brings out their natural sweetness, which balances the spice perfectly.

During the process, I experimented by adding different herbs to the filling. I found that fresh chives and parsley add a delightful freshness. Don’t be afraid to adjust the herbs to your liking; the balance of flavors is what makes these poppers truly special!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Crispy texture on the outside with a creamy filling on the inside
The perfect balance of heat and flavor
Great as an appetizer or a snack for game day

      

Choosing the Right Jalapenos

Selecting the right jalapenos is crucial as it directly impacts the heat level and flavor of your poppers. Look for firm, shiny peppers without blemishes. A larger jalapeno will offer more filling space, but be cautious; larger ones can also pack more heat. If you prefer milder poppers, consider removing the membranes and seeds thoroughly, as these parts contain most of the heat.

To add an extra layer of flavor, consider experimenting with different varieties of jalapenos. Serrano peppers can offer a different taste and heat level if you'd like more spice, while sweet peppers can provide a milder, different twist for those less tolerant of heat.

Making Ahead and Freezing

These jalapeno poppers can be prepared in advance, making them perfect for holidays or game day gatherings. Prepare the filling and stuff the jalapenos up to a day before, then cover and refrigerate until you're ready to bake. Just remember to bring them to room temperature before baking for even cooking.

If you're looking to make a larger batch, these poppers freeze beautifully. After wrapping with bacon, lay them flat on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy them, bake directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time until the bacon is crispy and the filling is hot.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

These stuffed jalapenos are incredibly versatile when it comes to serving options. They can be served on their own as a hearty appetizer or alongside dipping sauces such as ranch, blue cheese, or a spicy aioli for a gourmet touch. For a twist, consider garnishing with a sprinkle of crumbled feta or fresh cilantro for an added layer of flavor.

You can also elevate your presentation by serving the poppers on a platter lined with fresh greens, lemon wedges, or even roasted cherry tomatoes for a pop of color. The contrast of flavors and textures makes every bite exciting, and the freshness of the herbs truly shines when paired with a crisp salad or cold beverage.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your jalapeno poppers:

Ingredients

12 large jalapenos, halved and seeded
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup fresh chives, chopped
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
12 slices bacon, cut in half

Make sure to have everything prepped before you start assembling!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your tasty poppers:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Prepare the Filling

In a bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, minced garlic, chives, parsley, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Stuff the Jalapenos

Using a spoon, fill each halved jalapeno with the cream cheese mixture, mounding it slightly.

Wrap with Bacon

Wrap each stuffed jalapeno with a half slice of bacon, securing it with a toothpick if necessary.

Bake

Place the wrapped jalapenos on a baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes or until the bacon is crispy.

Let cool slightly before serving!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add some smoked paprika to the cream cheese mixture. Adjust the amount of garlic based on your taste preference. Serve with ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping!

Exploring Flavor Variations

Feel free to customize the filling based on your taste preferences. Adding diced jalapenos or other spicy peppers to the cream cheese mixture can give these poppers an extra kick. For those who love more complex flavors, consider mixing in spices such as smoked paprika or cumin, which will complement the savory bacon and creamy cheese beautifully.

If you're looking to incorporate some protein into the filling, shredded cooked chicken or crumbled sausage can be excellent additions. Just ensure that any additional ingredients are either pre-cooked or won't add excess moisture to the mixture, so the filling stays creamy without becoming soggy.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common issue with jalapeno poppers is sogginess due to excess moisture. To prevent this, make sure to thoroughly dry the jalapeno halves after rinsing, and avoid overfilling them. A slight mound of cream cheese filling is perfect; if filled too generously, the filling may ooze out during baking.

Another potential mishap is uneven cooking of the bacon. To ensure that it becomes crispy throughout, try par-cooking the bacon for a few minutes before wrapping it around the jalapenos. This will ensure that both the bacon and the filling are cooked perfectly, giving you a satisfying crunch with every bite.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare jalapeno poppers ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the stuffed jalapenos a few hours in advance and refrigerate them until you're ready to bake.

→ How spicy are these poppers?

The spice level depends on the jalapenos used. Removing the seeds and membranes will reduce the heat significantly.

→ Can I bake them instead of wrapping in bacon?

Yes! You can skip the bacon for a vegetarian option, but the flavor and crunch from the bacon add an extra layer of deliciousness.

→ What other fillings can I use?

Feel free to experiment with different cheeses or add ingredients like cooked sausage, jalapeno jelly, or even crumbled feta!