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 fresh jalapenos, halved and seeded; 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded; 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping); Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Simple Ideas

I absolutely love making Jalapeno Poppers with Cheddar and Garlic for gatherings and game days. The combination of the spicy jalapenos, rich cheddar cheese, and a hint of garlic creates a flavor explosion that never disappoints. Plus, they're surprisingly easy to prepare! I've found that roasting them adds a lovely depth to the flavors while keeping the peppers just tender enough. It's the perfect bite-sized treat that always has my friends coming back for more, and the smiles on their faces just make it all worth it.

Created by

Etta Langton

Last updated on 2026-01-05T18:29:34.590Z

Through trial and error, I've perfected my method of creating these irresistible Jalapeno Poppers with Cheddar and Garlic. Each popper is stuffed to the brim with creamy, cheesy goodness that melds perfectly with the spicy kick of jalapenos. The garlic offers an aromatic twist that elevates the dish, transforming simple ingredients into a gourmet snack.

One tip I've learned is to choose jalapenos that are medium-sized; they provide the best balance of heat and fleshiness, making them easier to stuff and enjoy. After baking, you can add a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an extra pop of color and flavor!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        A delicious blend of spicy, cheesy, and garlicky flavors
Crispy on the outside, creamy on the inside
Easy to prepare and perfect for entertaining

      

Choosing the Right Jalapenos

Selecting the right jalapenos is key to the flavor and heat of your poppers. Look for firm peppers that are bright green without any blemishes or soft spots. The heat level can vary, so if you prefer milder heat, choose larger jalapenos, as they tend to be less spicy. You can even taste a tiny bit of the pepper if you're unsure – just be cautious with your bites!

If you're looking to add a unique twist, try mixing in some other peppers like poblano or serrano for varied heat levels and flavors. Keep in mind that the more you stuff these poppers, the more intense the flavor will be. Adding herbs like cilantro to your cheese mixture can also provide a fresh counterpoint to the jalapeno's heat.

Tips for Perfectly Stuffed Poppers

When stuffing the jalapenos, take your time to pack the filling tightly. A piping bag can help you fill them neatly and without making a mess. Ensure that no filling spills out, as it can lead to uneven cooking. If you find that you have leftover filling, feel free to bake it separately in a small dish for a creamy dipping option later!

After baking, the cheese should be bubbly and may have started to brown at the edges. This not only enhances the flavor but also gives a delightful crispy texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling. If you desire extra crunch, you can broil the poppers for an additional 2-3 minutes, just be sure to watch them closely to prevent burning.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your Jalapeno Poppers:

Ingredients

12 fresh jalapenos, halved and seeded
1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Make sure to prepare everything before you start assembling the poppers!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your Jalapeno Poppers:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Prepare the Filling

In a medium bowl, combine the cheddar cheese, cream cheese, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Mix until smooth and well combined.

Stuff the Jalapenos

Using a spoon or a piping bag, fill each halved jalapeno with the cheese mixture, pressing it down slightly to ensure it's packed.

Top with Breadcrumbs

If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top of each stuffed jalapeno for a crunchy texture.

Bake

Arrange the stuffed jalapenos on the prepared baking sheet and bake for about 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.

Serve

Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh herbs if using, and serve hot!

Enjoy your delicious homemade Jalapeno Poppers!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, you can experiment with adding crumbled bacon to the cheese filling. It adds a smoky flavor that pairs wonderfully with the jalapenos.

Variations and Customizations

Feel free to customize your jalapeno poppers with different cheeses for a unique flavor twist. Cream cheese provides creaminess, but a sharp cheddar, pepper jack, or even crumbled queso fresco can elevate your dish. Adding cooked bacon or sausage into the cheese mixture can make your poppers heartier and even more indulgent.

To make these poppers a bit healthier, consider swapping out regular cream cheese for a reduced-fat or vegan cream cheese option. This can significantly lower the calorie count without compromising too much on flavor, making it a fantastic option for gatherings where guests appreciate lighter fare.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

You can prepare these jalapeno poppers a day in advance to save time when hosting. Stuff the peppers, place them on a baking sheet, cover with plastic wrap, and keep them refrigerated until you're ready to bake. Just remember to bake them a minute or two longer if they're straight from the fridge to ensure they heat through properly.

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes for the best texture. Avoid microwaving them as this can lead to a soggy outer shell, diminishing that delicious crunch.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make Jalapeno Poppers ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the poppers and mix the filling a few hours ahead and store them in the refrigerator. Just bake them when you're ready to serve.

→ Are Jalapeno Poppers vegetarian?

Yes, this recipe is vegetarian as it does not contain meat. However, be sure to check your cheese if you have dairy restrictions.

→ What can I serve with Jalapeno Poppers?

They pair well with dipping sauces like ranch, sour cream, or even a zesty salsa for an extra kick.

→ How can I adjust the heat level?

For milder poppers, remove all the seeds and membranes from the jalapenos. If you want more heat, leave some seeds in or use spicier peppers.