Jalapeno Poppers with Savory Crumb Topping

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Savory Crumb Topping
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 12 large jalapenos; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Oven Cooking

When I crave a flavorful snack, these Jalapeno Poppers with Savory Crumb Topping never disappoint. The combination of creamy cheese and a crunchy topping creates a delightful contrast that keeps me coming back for more. I enjoy hosting friends and family for game nights, and these poppers are always a hit. Making them is simple but requires a bit of patience to ensure the jalapeños are perfectly roasted. The spice from the jalapeños is wonderfully balanced by the rich cream cheese filling, making each bite an explosion of flavor.

Created by

Xanthe Beaumont

Last updated on 2026-01-13T00:17:35.498Z

From my first bite, I knew that these jalapeno poppers would be a crowd-pleaser. I experimented with different cheeses and toppings until I settled on a blend of cream cheese and sharp cheddar, topped with seasoned breadcrumbs and herbs. The result is a perfect balance of creamy and crunchy that pairs beautifully with the heat of the jalapeños.

I learned that the key to expertly stuffed jalapenos is not to overfill them, allowing just the right amount of space for the filling to expand during baking. This little tip results in a delicious popper that looks great and holds its shape!

        Why You'll Love These Poppers
        Creamy cheese filling with a spicy kick
Crispy crumb topping for perfect crunch
Easy to prepare for parties or a cozy night in

      

Choosing the Right Jalapenos

Selecting the right jalapenos is crucial for achieving the perfect balance of heat and flavor. Opt for large, firm jalapenos that feel heavy for their size. They should have smooth skin with no blemishes or soft spots. If you enjoy a bit more heat, you can leave some seeds in the jalapenos, but removing them will give you a milder experience. For a less spicy alternative, consider using poblano peppers instead, which have a similar flavor but tend to be milder.

Another tip is to taste a small piece of the jalapeno raw before you start cooking. This allows you to gauge the heat level and decide whether to adjust your filling or topping accordingly. A cool trick is to soak the jalapenos in cold water for about 30 minutes before roasting them. This can help tone down their heat, making them more palatable for friends who may not be used to spicy foods.

The Role of the Cream Cheese Filling

The cream cheese acts as the foundation of your poppers, providing a rich, creamy texture that pairs beautifully with the crunchy topping. Using softened cream cheese is essential; it allows for easy mixing and ensures the filling is smooth and spreadable. This filling can also be customized: consider adding crumbled bacon for an extra layer of flavor, or even some diced green onions for freshness. If you're looking for a dairy-free version, try using cashew cream or a vegan cream cheese alternative.

Mixing in sharp cheddar cheese adds depth and enhances the savory profile of the filling. The sharpness of the cheddar balances the creaminess of the cream cheese, creating a multidimensional flavor. Ensure the cheeses are well combined; mixing until smooth prevents any pesky lumps from forming in your filling, which could affect the texture of the poppers.

Tips for a Successful Topping

The breadcrumb topping is where you can really get creative! For an extra crunch, consider using panko breadcrumbs instead of traditional ones. Panko will result in a lighter, crispier texture that complements the creamy filling marvelously. Additionally, if you want a cheesy topping, sprinkle a bit of grated parmesan along with the breadcrumbs for an added flavor boost.

Make sure to thoroughly coat the breadcrumbs with olive oil to ensure they brown properly. This not only helps the topping achieve that desirable golden color but also enhances the rich flavor. If you notice that the topping isn’t browning as expected after 20 minutes, you can switch on the broiler for a minute or two at the end, but keep a close watch to avoid burning.

Ingredients

For the Jalapeno Poppers

12 large jalapenos
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Topping

1 cup breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

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. Set aside.

Make the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, grated cheddar, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and well combined.

Stuff the Jalapenos

Carefully spoon the cheese mixture into each jalapeno half, filling them generously but not overflowing.

Prepare the Topping

In another bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with olive oil, Italian seasoning, and salt until evenly coated.

Top and Bake

Place the stuffed jalapenos on a baking sheet and sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture on top. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.

Serve and Enjoy

Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your delicious jalapeno poppers with your favorite dipping sauce!

Pro Tips

For a milder version, consider using mini bell peppers instead of jalapenos. They still provide a great taste without the heat.

Make-Ahead Options

These jalapeno poppers can be prepared ahead of time, making them a perfect choice for party prep. After filling the jalapenos, you can cover them with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors in the filling to meld together beautifully, making each bite even more delicious. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they're coming straight from the fridge.

If you're planning to freeze the poppers, do so before baking. Arrange them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag, where they can be stored for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy them, bake from frozen, adding a few minutes to the recommended baking time.

Serving Suggestions

These jalapeno poppers are versatile and pair well with a variety of dipping sauces. Creamy ranch or zesty blue cheese dressing work wonderfully to cool down the spicy kick. Alternatively, you can serve them with a tangy salsa or avocado dip for a fresh twist. For a touch of elegance, consider drizzling a balsamic reduction over the top just before serving; it adds a sweet and tangy note that complements the flavors nicely.

If you want to turn these poppers into a more substantial dish, try serving them on a bed of mixed greens or alongside a spicy corn salad. This not only adds a colorful presentation but also brings an extra layer of texture and flavor to your appetizer spread.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these jalapeno poppers ahead of time?

Yes, you can stuff the jalapenos and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

→ What can I serve with jalapeno poppers?

They pair well with ranch dressing, sour cream, or even a spicy salsa!

→ Can I bake these instead of frying?

Absolutely! Baking is not only healthier, but it also keeps the poppers crispy without the need for excess oil.

→ Are these poppers spicy?

The heat depends on the jalapenos you use—removing the seeds reduces the spiciness significantly.