If you’re looking for the ultimate party snack, these Cheesy Jalapeño Poppers are it! Fresh jalapeños are stuffed with a creamy, cheesy filling and baked until bubbly and golden. They deliver just the right kick of spice with gooey cheese in every bite. Perfect for game days, holidays, or whenever you need a quick crowd-pleaser, these poppers are guaranteed to disappear fast.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Spicy, cheesy, and perfectly snackable.
- Easy to make ahead for parties and gatherings.
- Baked, not fried — lighter but still crispy.
- Customizable with different cheeses or add-ins.
Ingredients
- 10 fresh jalapeños, halved and seeded
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs (optional, for crunch)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Slice jalapeños in half lengthwise and remove seeds (wear gloves if sensitive to spice).
- In a bowl, mix cream cheese, cheddar, mozzarella, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Stuff each jalapeño half with the cheese mixture.
- If using breadcrumbs, toss them with olive oil and sprinkle on top.
- Place on the baking sheet and bake 18–20 minutes, until golden and bubbly.
- Serve warm with ranch or sour cream dip.
Tips & Variations
- Add cooked bacon or sausage (or mushroom as a vegetarian option) to the filling.
- Use pepper jack cheese for an extra spicy kick.
- Try air frying for an even crispier finish.
- Make it kid-friendly by using mini sweet peppers instead of jalapeños.
Storage & Freezer Instructions
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best texture.
- Freeze before baking: arrange stuffed peppers on a tray, freeze solid, then store in bags. Bake from frozen, adding 5 extra minutes.
Serving & Pairing Ideas
- Serve with ranch, sour cream, or guacamole for dipping.
- Pair with sliders, wings, or nachos for a full party spread.
- Great with iced tea, beer, or sparkling lemonade.
Frequently Asked Questions
How spicy are jalapeño poppers?
They have a mild to medium heat, especially after baking, since cooking reduces spiciness.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble them a day before, refrigerate, then bake when ready to serve.
Can I fry them instead of baking?
Yes, dredge in flour, egg, and breadcrumbs before frying until golden.
Do I have to use cream cheese?
Cream cheese makes the filling creamy, but you can substitute with ricotta or mascarpone.
Ready to Make It?
These Cheesy Jalapeño Poppers are spicy, cheesy, and downright addictive. Whether it’s game night, a holiday gathering, or just a fun snack, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Save it now so you’ll have it ready for your next party!
You Might Also Like
- Honey Garlic Shrimp – Sweet and savory.
- Honey Glazed Corn Casserole – Buttery and sweet.
- Pumpkin Parmesan Scones – Soft and cheesy.
- Chicken Noodle Soup – Classic and cozy.
Baked Cheesy Jalapeno Poppers
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 20 poppers 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Crispy, creamy, and cheesy jalapeño poppers stuffed with cream cheese and cheddar, then baked until golden and delicious.
Ingredients
10 fresh jalapeños
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
2 tbsp melted butter
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Cut jalapeños in half lengthwise and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix cream cheese, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Fill each jalapeño half with the cheese mixture.
5. Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter, then sprinkle on top of stuffed jalapeños.
6. Bake for 18–20 minutes until golden and bubbly.
7. Serve warm.
Notes
For extra heat, leave some seeds inside.
You can also wrap them in tortillas or serve with ranch dip.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 poppers
- Calories: 95
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 20mg