Jalapeno Poppers with Cheddar and Garlic

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Cheddar and Garlic
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 poppers
Ingredients: 12 large jalapeno peppers; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 tsp smoked paprika; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1 cup bread crumbs; Olive oil spray

Highlighted under: Family Meals

I love these Jalapeno Poppers with Cheddar and Garlic because they pack a punch of flavor with every bite. With a perfect blend of creamy cheese and zesty garlic, they are always a hit at gatherings. I love the thrill of making them just right, ensuring the heat from the jalapenos is balanced by the rich cheddar. These poppers are easy to whip up and can be prepared ahead of time, making them a fantastic option for parties or game days, bringing a taste of excitement to every event.

Created by

Belinda Fraser

Last updated on 2026-01-05T21:50:34.828Z

When I first made Jalapeno Poppers with Cheddar and Garlic, I was amazed at how simple yet delicious they could be. I decided to experiment with different cheeses and settled on cheddar for its creaminess and melt-in-your-mouth texture. I’ve found that mixing garlic into the cheese filling not only enhances the flavor but also makes them even more irresistible. Every time I serve them, they vanish within minutes!

I've learned that preparing these poppers ahead of time is a game-changer. I can stuff the jalapenos and refrigerate them until I'm ready to bake, which makes hosting easier. This technique ensures that the poppers are fresh and hot when served, offering a delightful contrast with their crispy exterior and cheesy filling that's just bursting with flavor!

        Why You'll Love These Jalapeno Poppers
        The perfect balance of spicy heat and creamy cheese.
Garlic adds a delightful twist that elevates the flavor profile.
Great for parties or a cozy night in with friends.
Easy to prep ahead, so you can focus on enjoying your time.

      

Understanding Jalapeno Heat

Jalapenos can vary in heat levels, influenced by factors such as soil and weather conditions. To achieve a mild flavor profile, be sure to remove the seeds and membranes, as they contain most of the capsaicin—the compound that gives peppers their heat. If you enjoy a bit of a kick, consider keeping some of the membranes intact in a few of the poppers. You can also experiment with different pepper varieties, like poblano or Fresno, for unique flavor profiles.

For a more controlled spice level, choose jalapenos that are firm and deep green, as these tend to be less spicy. Yellowing or soft peppers often indicate overripeness, which can lead to an intense heat that may overpower the creamy filling. When preparing the poppers, wearing gloves can protect your hands from irritation caused by the oils in the peppers. This is especially important if you plan on handling many peppers in one go.

Customizing Your Filling

The delightful combination of cream cheese and cheddar in this recipe creates a rich and creamy base, but you might want to tailor the filling further to suit your taste. For instance, incorporate cooked bacon bits, finely chopped green onions, or even a sprinkle of lime zest to add an extra layer of flavor. You could also use pepper jack cheese for a spicier twist or a plant-based cream cheese for a dairy-free option, ensuring everyone can enjoy these poppers.

When mixing the filling, ensure the cream cheese is adequately softened to avoid lumps. This will help achieve a smooth consistency that's easy to spread. Using an electric mixer can expedite the blending process and ensure that all ingredients are well combined. If you prefer a more robust garlic flavor, try roasting the garlic before mixing it into the filling for a sweeter and more mellow taste.

Serving and Storing Leftovers

These jalapeno poppers are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven when they're warm and the cheese is gooey. They pair beautifully with dipping sauces like ranch, sour cream, or even a spicy aioli. If you're serving them at a party, consider creating a platter with a mix of sauces for your guests to enjoy. They can also be a tasty appetizer or a delightful side to a grilled meat dish.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid reheating in the microwave, as this can make the cheese rubbery. For longer storage, these poppers freeze well. Just ensure they’re completely cooled before placing them in a freezer-safe container, and reheat from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create these delicious poppers:

Ingredients

12 large jalapeno peppers
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 cup bread crumbs
Olive oil spray

Make sure all ingredients are ready for a smooth preparation!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your baked 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 less heat.

Make the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, minced garlic, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.

Stuff the Jalapenos

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

Coat with Breadcrumbs

Place the stuffed jalapenos on a baking sheet. Sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top of each popper and lightly spray with olive oil for a crispy finish.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.

Serve

Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious jalapeno poppers warm!

Serve these poppers with your favorite dipping sauce for an extra kick!

Pro Tips

For extra crispy poppers, consider using panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs. They add a delightful crunch. You can also experiment with different cheese blends for unique flavors.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your poppers don't turn out as crispy as you'd like, check that you’ve coated them adequately with breadcrumbs and oil before baking. Spraying them lightly with olive oil is essential for achieving that golden, crunchy finish. If they still seem soggy, increase the baking time by an additional 5-10 minutes, keeping an eye to avoid burning. Remember, each oven can behave differently, so it's good to monitor closely during the last few minutes of cooking.

Another common issue is the filling spilling out during baking. To prevent this, be generous when stuffing the jalapenos but ensure the filling is slightly below the rim. Arrange them upright on the baking sheet, which can help contain the filling while they bake. If you find that some of your cheese oozes out, don’t worry; it will still taste delicious, even if it looks a bit messy.

Scaling the Recipe

One of the great things about jalapeno poppers is that you can easily scale the recipe up or down depending on your needs. If you're expecting a crowd, doubling or tripling the ingredients is straightforward—just ensure to have enough baking sheets or bake in batches to avoid crowding them, which can lead to uneven cooking.

When scaling, keep in mind that the baking time may vary slightly with the number of poppers. More poppers may mean the need for a longer baking time, especially if they’re crowded on the sheet. Just check for that bubbly cheese and a golden breadcrumb topping to know they’re ready.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these poppers ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the poppers and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking.

→ How can I make these poppers less spicy?

Removing the seeds and membranes from the jalapenos significantly reduces the heat. You can also choose milder peppers if preferred.

→ What can I serve with jalapeno poppers?

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

→ Can I bake them instead of frying?

Absolutely! Baking them is a healthier option and still gives you a delicious result.