Jalapeno Poppers with Herb Cream Cheese

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Herb Cream Cheese
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 poppers
Ingredients: 12 large jalapeno peppers; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

Highlighted under: Warm Planning

I absolutely love making Jalapeno Poppers with Herb Cream Cheese for gatherings or just a cozy night at home. The combination of spicy jalapenos and the cool, creamy herb-infused cheese makes for a delicious appetizer that always disappears quickly. It's a simple recipe that gives a satisfying crunch and a burst of flavor with every bite. I often surprise my friends with the aromatic herbs and spices that elevate these poppers to a whole new level. With just a handful of ingredients, you can impress everyone with these delightful bites!

Created by

Questa Beaumont

Last updated on 2026-01-13T06:35:37.127Z

I first stumbled upon Jalapeno Poppers years ago at a local bar, and I immediately knew I had to recreate them at home. My version features a rich herb cream cheese filling that's as easy to make as it is delicious. I recommend mixing the cheese early so the flavors meld beautifully before stuffing the poppers. The crunchy exterior is created by using a light coating of breadcrumbs, ensuring each bite is wonderfully satisfying.

One of the tips I swear by is to soak the jalapenos in water before baking—they get just the right amount of tenderness without losing their signature kick. Whether I’m throwing a party or enjoying a quiet night in, these Jalapeno Poppers always find their way onto my table for a crowd-pleasing snack that never fails to impress!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Spicy kick balanced by the cool cream cheese filling
Easy to make with just a few ingredients
Perfect for parties or game nights
Crispy on the outside, creamy on the inside

The Importance of Proper Preparation

When making Jalapeno Poppers, the preparation of the jalapenos is crucial. Start by selecting firm, bright green jalapenos for an optimal crunch. When slicing them, ensure to use a sharp knife to get clean edges, which will help them bake evenly. Removing the seeds and membranes is key to controlling the spice level—this step allows the flavors of the cream cheese filling to shine through without overwhelming heat. If you prefer more heat, you can leave a few seeds in or select a spicier variety of jalapenos.

While preparing the jalapenos, wear gloves to protect your hands from the capsaicin—an oil in the peppers that can cause burning sensations. If you accidentally touch your face or eyes after handling jalapenos, it can lead to irritation. Washing your hands immediately after handling can help minimize any discomfort.

Cheese Filling Variations

The filling for these poppers is quite versatile. While cream cheese is the classic choice for its creamy texture, you can experiment with different types of cheeses to create unique flavors. For instance, adding crumbled goat cheese or feta can introduce a tangy twist, while smoked Gouda can enhance the poppers with a rich smoky flavor. Additionally, for a spicy kick, consider incorporating diced jalapenos or serrano peppers into the filling mixture.

If you prefer a dairy-free option, vegan cream cheese works well as a substitute. Mix in nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor while maintaining a plant-based profile. Remember to adjust salt levels, as some vegan cheeses have added salt that may affect the overall taste.

Serving Suggestions and Storage

Once your Jalapeno Poppers are baked to golden perfection, they're best served fresh and hot from the oven. To complement their flavors, consider serving them with a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping. They also pair wonderfully with a homemade spicy salsa or guacamole, adding another layer of freshness and flavor.

If you're making these ahead of time for a gathering, you can prep the jalapenos and filling in advance. Assemble and stuff the poppers, then cover them with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, simply bake them directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure they are heated throughout.

Ingredients

For the Jalapeno Poppers

12 large jalapeno peppers
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup breadcrumbs

Make sure to wear gloves when handling jalapenos to avoid skin irritation!

Instructions

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Carefully slice the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes. This helps tone down the heat a bit.

Make the Filling

In a bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Stuff the Jalapenos

Spoon the mixture generously into each jalapeno half until they are filled.

Coat with Breadcrumbs

Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top of the stuffed jalapenos for a deliciously crunchy topping.

Bake

Place the stuffed jalapenos on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes or until the jalapenos are tender and the tops are golden brown.

Let them cool slightly before serving to ensure you don't burn your mouth!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding crumbled bacon to the cream cheese filling or drizzle your favorite hot sauce over the top before serving.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your Jalapeno Poppers come out soggy instead of crispy, it could be due to excess moisture in the jalapenos. After cleaning and cutting the jalapenos, pat them dry with a paper towel before stuffing. Additionally, using fresh breadcrumbs over stale ones can yield a crispier topping; feel free to toast them lightly in a pan with a bit of oil to enhance their crispiness before sprinkling them on top.

In case your cheese filling doesn’t stick well to the jalapenos, ensure the cream cheese is adequately softened. This makes it easier to mix with the other ingredients and ensures a smooth, spreadable consistency. A thick filling may not adhere as well, leading to separation during baking.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe is easy to scale up for larger gatherings. Simply multiply the ingredient amounts based on the number of guests. However, when stuffing the jalapenos, do so carefully to avoid overfilling, which can lead to a mess when baking. If you prefer more variety, you can create multiple fillings—some spicy, some milder—and label them before serving.

If you find yourself with leftover poppers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. They can be reheated in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This will help maintain their crispiness, as microwaving might make them soggy.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these poppers ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the jalapenos and the filling a day in advance. Just stuff them and bake when you're ready to serve.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Leftover jalapeno poppers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.

→ What if I want them spicier?

You can keep some of the seeds and membranes in the jalapenos for added heat or use hotter varieties of peppers.

→ Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

Absolutely! Just omit any meat products and perhaps add more vegetables or a variety of cheese to enhance the flavors.