Jalapeno Poppers with Cheddar and Garlic

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Cheddar and Garlic
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 poppers
Ingredients: 12 fresh jalapenos; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

Highlighted under: Warm Cooking

I absolutely love making Jalapeno Poppers with Cheddar and Garlic for gatherings or movie nights. The combination of spicy jalapenos and rich, creamy cheddar is absolutely irresistible! I enjoy preparing them because they are straightforward to make and always a hit. The garlic adds a wonderful depth of flavor, elevating these poppers to a new level. Plus, they are perfect for those who crave a little heat paired with delicious cheesy goodness. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe together!

Created by

Xanthe Beaumont

Last updated on 2026-01-05T17:29:34.741Z

When I first tried Jalapeno Poppers, I was blown away by how easy and delicious they were. Making them at home allows for personalization, like adding more garlic or choosing different cheeses. The first time I prepared these, I made sure to wear gloves to prevent the heat from the jalapenos burning my hands, which was a smart move! It made the whole process much more enjoyable.

As for the baking time, I always watch them closely to ensure they don't overcook and become too soggy. They should come out golden and slightly crispy on the outside. The blend of garlic and cheddar melts perfectly, while the jalapeno delivers that kick!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        The perfect marriage of spicy and creamy flavors
Easy to customize according to your taste
Great appetizer for parties or casual hangouts

      

Jalapeno Selection and Preparation

Choosing the right jalapenos is crucial for achieving the perfect balance of flavor and heat in your poppers. Look for firm, shiny peppers that are bright green with no blemishes. If you prefer a milder flavor, opt for peppers that are smaller and less mature, as they generally contain fewer seeds. Remember to wear gloves while cutting and deseeding the jalapenos to avoid skin irritation from the capsaicin.

When preparing the jalapenos, cutting them in half lengthwise allows for an easier stuffing process and more even cooking. Removing the seeds and white membranes significantly reduces their spiciness, making the poppers enjoyable for those sensitive to heat. If you enjoy a kick, leave some seeds in, but be cautious, as this can lead to a much spicier outcome.

Perfecting the Cheese Filling

The cream cheese contributes to the poppers' rich, creamy texture, while the cheddar adds a sharp, tangy flavor that enhances the overall taste. If you're looking to mix things up, consider adding crumbled bacon or some fresh herbs like chives or cilantro to the cheese mixture for an extra depth of flavor. To ensure your filling is smooth and easy to work with, make sure the cream cheese is thoroughly softened before mixing.

For optimal flavor distribution, allow the filled jalapenos to rest for about 15 minutes before baking. This resting time helps the flavors meld together, resulting in a more cohesive taste. Additionally, if you want a little extra zest, consider adding a teaspoon of hot sauce to the cheese mixture for a spicy kick that pairs beautifully with the jalapenos.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to prepare your Jalapeno Poppers:

Ingredients

12 fresh jalapenos
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup breadcrumbs

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let's jump into the cooking process!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to make your Jalapeno Poppers:

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds for less heat. Make sure to wear gloves while handling the jalapenos.

Make the Filling

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

Stuff the Jalapenos

Using a spoon or a piping bag, fill each jalapeno half with the cheese mixture. Press down slightly to pack it in.

Add Breadcrumbs

Sprinkle breadcrumbs over each filled jalapeno for a crunchy topping.

Bake

Place the stuffed jalapenos on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the tops are golden and crispy.

Serve

Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm!

These jalapeno poppers are sure to impress your friends and family!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding crumbled bacon to the cheese mixture or drizzling with a balsamic glaze before serving.

Make-Ahead and Storage

These jalapeno poppers can be made ahead of time, making them an ideal appetizer for gatherings. After stuffing the jalapenos, cover them with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to add a few extra minutes of baking time if they're straight from the fridge to ensure they heat through completely.

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. This method revives their crispy topping and melty filling, keeping them delicious. You can also freeze the uncooked stuffed jalapenos for up to three months. Bake them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Serving Suggestions

Jalapeno poppers are incredibly versatile as a snack or appetizer. They pair beautifully with homemade ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping. You might also consider serving them alongside a fresh salsa or guacamole to add a refreshing contrast to the heat. For a more substantial platter, include nachos, quesadillas, or other Tex-Mex favorites to complement the flavors.

Another great way to elevate your poppers is to garnish them with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like cilantro or a drizzle of lime juice just before serving. This adds a bright burst of freshness that enhances their flavor profile and makes the dish visually appealing. Experimenting with different dips and garnishes allows you to customize the experience to your guests’ tastes.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these poppers ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare them a few hours in advance, cover them, and refrigerate until you're ready to bake.

→ What can I use instead of cheddar cheese?

You can use any cheese you love, such as pepper jack for a spicier kick or mozzarella for a milder flavor.

→ Are jalapeno poppers gluten-free?

Yes, if you use gluten-free breadcrumbs, the entire dish can be gluten-free.

→ How do I store leftover jalapeno poppers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.