Jalapeno Poppers with Cream Cheese

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Cream Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 poppers
Ingredients: 12 fresh jalapenos; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 12 slices of bacon (optional)

Highlighted under: Favorite Baking Ideas

I absolutely love making Jalapeno Poppers with Cream Cheese, especially for parties or as a delicious snack. They are the perfect balance of spicy and creamy, delivering a kick that is just enough to tantalize the taste buds. Each bite features a crunchy exterior with a rich, creamy filling that blends wonderfully with the heat of the jalapenos. These poppers are easy to whip up and always leave my guests wanting more. Trust me, once you try them, you'll understand why they’re a classic favorite!

Created by

Genevieve Porter

Last updated on 2026-01-12T01:42:35.931Z

When I first decided to make Jalapeno Poppers with Cream Cheese, I was amazed by how quickly they disappeared at the gathering. I experimented with different fillings and spices, but ultimately, the classic cream cheese had the perfect texture and flavor combination that everyone loved.

One tip I've learned is to use fresh jalapenos for a crisper bite. Also, a little smoked paprika in the cream cheese filling elevates the flavor profile, giving it a delightful smoky undertone that pairs beautifully with the heat of the peppers. Enjoy crafting these crowd-pleasers!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        The perfect combination of spicy jalapenos and creamy cheese
Easy to prepare and a guaranteed hit at parties
Customizable with various seasonings and toppings

      

Mastering the Art of Jalapeno Preparation

When preparing jalapenos, the key step lies in removing the seeds and membranes. This not only reduces the heat but allows the creamy filling to shine through. If you're after a bit more spice, simply leave a few seeds in each half. Use gloves when handling jalapenos to avoid unwanted heat on your hands, which can last for hours!

To ensure that your poppers maintain their shape while baking, slice the jalapenos with a sharp knife for clean cuts. A good tip is to cut them with the stem facing up, so the filling is easy to pack in. Properly cleaned jalapenos will also ensure a delightful bite that balances crunch and creaminess.

The Creamy Filling and Its Perfect Blend

The filling is a vital component of jalapeno poppers, and the right mix makes a world of difference. Cream cheese provides a smooth base that melds with the cheddar for a rich mouthfeel. The addition of garlic powder and smoked paprika introduces layers of flavor; the smoked paprika particularly enhances the overall depth, providing a hint of warmth.

If you're looking for variations, consider adding herbs like chives or even crumbled feta for a unique twist on the filling. You can also experiment with other cheeses like pepper jack for an extra kick, or use vegan cream cheese if you're accommodating dietary restrictions.

Baking and Serving Tips

When baking your poppers, monitor closely as both the cheese and bacon cook rather quickly. Aim for a golden-brown appearance and bubbling edges on the cheese to ensure perfect doneness, which typically takes around 20 minutes. If you notice the bacon isn't crisping up, you can increase the oven temperature to 425°F for the last few minutes; keep an eye on them to prevent burning.

For serving, these poppers are fantastic on their own, but a drizzle of ranch dressing or a side of salsa can elevate them even more. Present them on a colorful platter garnished with fresh cilantro for added visual appeal. They also pair wonderfully with cocktails, making them a hit at any gathering!

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make the best Jalapeno Poppers!

Ingredients

12 fresh jalapenos
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
12 slices of bacon (optional)

Make sure to have all ingredients prepared before you start cooking.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious Jalapeno Poppers.

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes for a milder flavor. If you prefer them spicier, leave some seeds.

Make the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix until smooth and well blended.

Fill the Jalapenos

Spoon the cream cheese mixture into each jalapeno half, packing it in generously.

Wrap with Bacon (Optional)

If using bacon, wrap each jalapeno popper with a slice of bacon, securing with a toothpick if necessary.

Bake the Poppers

Place the filled jalapenos on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the cheese is bubbly.

Serve and Enjoy

Remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Jalapeno Poppers!

These poppers are best served fresh out of the oven.

Pro Tips

For a more gourmet touch, try adding chopped herbs like chives or cilantro to the filling. You can also experiment with different types of cheese for varied flavors.

Make-Ahead and Storage Options

If you want to prepare these Jalapeno Poppers in advance, you can assemble them a day ahead and store them in the fridge before baking. Just cover them tightly with plastic wrap to prevent drying out. This not only saves time on the day of your event but also allows the flavors to meld in the filling, enhancing the overall taste.

Should you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing them before baking. Simply place the assembled poppers on a baking sheet to freeze solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be baked straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Scaling Up for Larger Gatherings

Scaling this recipe is easy; simply increase the amounts of each ingredient proportionally. For large gatherings, consider using a baking dish instead of a sheet pan, which can accommodate more jalapeno poppers. You can also prep a mix of different fillings to cater to a variety of tastes, ensuring that everyone finds something they enjoy.

If you're short on time, you can even use store-bought jalapeno popper filling for a shortcut. Just be cautious with the amount of heat and flavors, as pre-packaged fillings may vary widely in spice levels.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter issues with the filling leaking out during baking, make sure the jalapenos are appropriately thick-walled and packed tightly with the filling to minimize spillage. If using bacon, ensure it's not overlapping too much as it can cook unevenly; this will help achieve that ideal crispness you want.

For a creamier texture, consider slightly increasing the amount of cream cheese in the filling. Conversely, if you find the poppers too spicy, pairing them with a cooling dip like sour cream or guacamole can balance the heat nicely.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make Jalapeno Poppers ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare them up to the point of baking and refrigerate them for a few hours.

→ How can I make these poppers healthier?

You can use low-fat cream cheese and skip the bacon or choose turkey bacon as a lighter option.

→ What can I serve with Jalapeno Poppers?

They pair well with ranch dressing, guacamole, or a spicy dipping sauce.

→ How spicy are these poppers?

The heat level depends on the jalapenos you use. Removing the seeds and membranes will make them milder.