Spicy Cheddar Jalapeno Poppers

Name: Spicy Cheddar Jalapeno Poppers
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 16 poppers
Ingredients: 8 large jalapenos; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup breadcrumbs; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Cravings Kitchen

I absolutely love making Spicy Cheddar Jalapeno Poppers! They are the perfect snack for any gathering, offering a delightful balance of heat and cheesy goodness. Each time I prepare them, I'm reminded of the joy they bring to my friends and family. The crispy exterior combined with the creamy, spicy filling creates an irresistible treat that disappears in no time. Plus, they are surprisingly easy to make, allowing me to whip them up whenever the craving strikes. Trust me, these poppers will be the hit of your next party!

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2026-01-16T14:04:29.380Z

In my quest to find the ultimate appetizer, I stumbled upon the perfect combination of spice and cheese with these poppers. Initially, I was skeptical about how spicy the jalapenos would be, but removing the seeds tamed the heat just right, leaving a tantalizing kick that my guests adore. Baking them instead of frying not only makes them healthier but also allows for a wonderfully crispy texture.

One of my best tips is to let the cream cheese mixture sit at room temperature for a few minutes before filling the jalapenos. This makes it easier to fill each pepper and ensures a smooth blend of flavors. I swear that every bite brings a burst of flavor that keeps everyone coming back for more!

        What You'll Love About This Recipe
        Creamy, spicy filling that tantalizes your taste buds
Crispy texture that contrasts beautifully with the filling
Easy to customize with your favorite cheeses
Perfect for game nights or casual family gatherings

      

The Importance of Jalapeno Selection

Choosing the right jalapenos is crucial for achieving the perfect balance of heat and flavor in your poppers. I recommend selecting medium-sized jalapenos that are firm and glossy, indicating freshness. Pay attention to the color; bright green jalapenos are less mature and may be milder, while those with a slightly wrinkled skin often have more developed flavors but can also bring more heat. For those who enjoy a spicier kick, look for peppers with a few small blemishes, as these tend to be hotter.

If you're preparing for a gathering and want a milder option, consider using poblano peppers instead. Poblano poppers offer a similar texture while maintaining a lower heat level. Simply follow the same preparation steps, slicing them open, removing the seeds, and stuffing them with your creamy filling.

Perfecting the Filling

Getting the right consistency for your cheese filling is key. It's best to have your cream cheese at room temperature, as this ensures it blends smoothly with the shredded cheddar. I like to mix in a little bit of sour cream for added tanginess if you’re feeling adventurous. This not only enhances the flavor but also helps with creaminess. When mixing the filling, you want it to be smooth and spreadable but not runny; it should hold its shape when stuffed into the jalapenos.

When adding spices, be generous but taste as you go. The subtle heat from the garlic and onion powders complements the jalapenos beautifully, so don’t be shy! If you’re catering to diverse palates, consider separating the filling into portions and customizing with additional herbs or spice blends. Adding a touch of smoked paprika can give a lovely depth of flavor.

Ingredients

For the Poppers

8 large jalapenos
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Ensure to wash your jalapenos thoroughly before preparing them.

Instructions

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes for a milder flavor.

Make the Filling

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

Stuff the Jalapenos

Spoon the cheese mixture into each halved jalapeno, pressing it in to ensure it's packed tightly.

Coat with Breadcrumbs

Sprinkle the breadcrumbs over the filled jalapenos for added crunch.

Bake the Poppers

Arrange the stuffed jalapenos on a baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes or until golden brown.

Allow the poppers to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!

Pro Tips

Adjust the level of spiciness by leaving some seeds in the jalapenos. Experiment with different cheeses for a unique flavor profile.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Spicy Cheddar Jalapeno Poppers can be prepared in advance, making them a fantastic option for meal prepping or party planning. After filling the jalapenos, cover them with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the overall taste. Just remember to adjust the baking time slightly if they’re coming straight from the fridge; they may require an additional 5 minutes in the oven to ensure they are heated through.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-12 minutes until heated through. For an extra crispy exterior, you can pop them in the air fryer for about 5 minutes at 375°F (190°C).

Serving Suggestions

Pairing your jalapeno poppers with the right dipping sauce can elevate your snack experience. A creamy ranch dressing or a zesty cilantro-lime crema brings a cool contrast to the spicy jalapenos. For those who enjoy a bit more heat, consider serving them alongside sriracha or a homemade spicy mayo. Not only do these dips enhance the flavor, but they also provide a refreshing balance to the rich, cheesy filling.

These poppers are perfect for game nights, but don’t hesitate to serve them at casual family gatherings or barbecues. You can even turn them into a fun appetizer bar, setting out different toppings and sauces for guests to create their own unique bites. I often prepare a variety of filling options—like adding bacon bits or black beans—to cater to different tastes and preferences.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes, feel free to mix in cheeses like pepper jack or mozzarella for a different flavor!

→ Can I prepare these poppers in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare them a day ahead and just bake them before serving.

→ How spicy are these poppers?

The spice level can be adjusted by removing more or fewer seeds from the jalapenos.

→ Can I freeze leftover poppers?

Yes, they freeze well! Just ensure they are tightly wrapped and reheat them in the oven when ready to serve.