Jalapeno Poppers with Cheddar and Garlic

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Cheddar and Garlic
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 poppers
Ingredients: 12 jalapenos, halved and seeded; 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded; 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Plain breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)

Highlighted under: Everyday Recipes

I absolutely love making Jalapeno Poppers with Cheddar and Garlic for gatherings. The combination of spicy jalapenos filled with creamy cheddar and a hint of garlic creates a perfect appetizer. Every bite delivers a satisfying crunch and a burst of flavor that has my friends coming back for more. Plus, they are really easy to prepare, making them a favorite in my recipe collection. If you're looking for a crowd-pleaser that packs a punch, these poppers are definitely the way to go!

Created by

Naomi Ashcroft

Last updated on 2026-01-05T18:21:34.138Z

When I first tried making Jalapeno Poppers at home, I was surprised at how well they turned out! This recipe allows the natural heat of the jalapenos to shine, while the creamy cheddar filling balances the spice perfectly. I’ve experimented with different fillings, but garlic gives it an amazing depth of flavor that my friends can’t resist.

One of my favorite tips is to make sure to wear gloves while handling the jalapenos, especially if you're sensitive to spice. It really can save you from an unexpected burning sensation! Baking them instead of frying enhances the flavors while keeping them deliciously crunchy.

        Why You'll Love These Poppers
        A perfect blend of spicy and creamy.
Quick and easy to prepare for any party.
An irresistible bite-sized snack that everyone loves.

      

Perfecting Your Poppers

The key to mastering jalapeno poppers lies in selecting the right peppers. Look for firm, glossy jalapenos that are free of blemishes. Smaller peppers often pack more heat, so choose according to your spice preference. When halving the peppers, be careful to avoid cutting too deeply, as this can make filling them challenging. A sturdy paring knife will help you easily navigate the stem and seeds without damaging the pepper's shape.

When it comes to the filling, achieving the right consistency is essential. The combination of cream cheese and cheddar creates a creamy base that holds up well during baking. If you prefer a cheesier flavor, you can substitute half of the cream cheese with an additional half-cup of shredded cheddar. This results in a richer filling and enhances the flavor profile, giving every bite an extra cheesy indulgence.

Baking Tips for Optimal Flavor

Baking the poppers at 375°F (190°C) allows the cheese to melt beautifully while the jalapenos maintain their firmness. Bake them for about 15 minutes, but keep an eye out for visual cues: the cheese should be bubbly and beginning to brown at the edges. If you like a little extra char, you can broil them for the last minute of cooking; just watch carefully to prevent burning.

For those who love a crispy texture, consider adding a topping of plain breadcrumbs mixed with a hint of olive oil before baking. This adds a crunchy topping that contrasts nicely with the creamy filling. You can also experiment with spices, such as adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture for added heat and flavor.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your tasty jalapeno poppers:

Jalapeno Poppers Ingredients

12 jalapenos, halved and seeded
1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Plain breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)

Make sure to have everything ready before you start assembling the poppers!

Instructions

Here’s how to make these delicious Jalapeno Poppers:

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds. Be cautious and wear gloves!

Make the Filling

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

Fill the Jalapenos

Spoon the cheese mixture into each jalapeno half, filling generously. If you like, you can sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for extra crunch.

Bake

Place the filled jalapenos on a baking sheet and bake for about 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve

Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your delicious poppers!

Serve these tasty poppers warm for the best flavor and texture.

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize the filling with your favorite spices or additional ingredients like crumbled bacon for added flavor.

Storing and Reheating

Jalapeno poppers can easily be made ahead of time, making them a great option for parties. After filling the jalapenos, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This not only saves time but allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the overall taste.

If you have leftovers, store them in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to warm them through and restore their crispiness. Alternatively, you can reheat them in an air fryer for an even quicker option, achieving a perfect crunch.

Serving Suggestions

These jalapeno poppers shine as a stand-alone appetizer, but you can elevate your serving game by pairing them with a variety of dips. A cool ranch or zesty lime crema complements the heat beautifully, adding a creamy element that balances the spicy jalapenos. For an added kick, consider serving them with a chipotle mayo—a smoky and spicy sauce that adds depth to each bite.

If you want to create a themed platter, consider including other finger foods like mini tacos or taco dip to complement the flavor profile. This not only provides variety but also transforms your gathering into a thrilling culinary experience that guests will rave about long after the last popper is gone.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare these ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the jalapenos up to the filling stage and store them in the fridge until you're ready to bake them.

→ Are these poppers spicy?

Yes, jalapenos can be spicy! If you prefer a milder flavor, remove all the seeds and membranes.

→ Can I freeze the jalapeno poppers?

Absolutely! You can freeze the unbaked poppers. Just bake them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

→ What can I serve with jalapeno poppers?

They pair wonderfully with sour cream, ranch dressing, or guacamole for dipping.