Jalapeno Poppers with Cheddar Herb Filling

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Cheddar Herb Filling
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 12 large jalapeno peppers; 4 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; 2 tbsp fresh chives, chopped; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional); Olive oil for drizzling

Highlighted under: Everyday Comfort Food Ideas

I absolutely love making Jalapeno Poppers with Cheddar Herb Filling, especially for gatherings! The spicy kick of the jalapenos perfectly complements the creamy, cheesy filling, creating a dish that's both addictive and satisfying. Each bite offers a delightful crunch, followed by that burst of cheese and herbs. It's a favorite among friends and family, and I can never seem to make enough. Whether served as an appetizer or part of a game day spread, these poppers always steal the show!

Created by

Emma Parker

Last updated on 2026-01-14T05:41:34.667Z

Every time I make Jalapeno Poppers, I'm reminded of summer barbecues and vibrant gatherings with friends. I experimented with different cheese combinations and settled on a blend of sharp cheddar and cream cheese, enhanced with fresh herbs. This mixture not only adds richness but also a unique flavor profile that keeps people coming back for more.

One technique I've found to be crucial is removing the seeds and membranes from the jalapenos; it totally balances the heat while allowing the flavors to shine through. If you want an extra kick, leave a few seeds in, but I prefer the milder experience that lets the herby filling take center stage.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A perfect balance of spicy and cheesy goodness.
Delicious blend of fresh herbs and sharp cheddar.
Easy to make ahead of time for any gathering.

      

Mastering the Stuffing Technique

The key to perfectly stuffed jalapeno poppers lies in your stuffing technique. When you fill the jalapeno halves with the cheese mixture, it's essential to pack it in without overstuffing, which can cause the filling to overflow during baking. Using a small spoon or a piping bag fitted with a wide tip helps control the amount of filling and ensures an even distribution. You want the filling to be heaped slightly above the edges of the peppers for a delightful presentation.

If you're feeling creative, consider adding different spices or ingredients to the filling mixture. For a smoky flavor, a dash of smoked paprika can elevate the taste profile. Alternatively, adding crumbled bacon or diced sun-dried tomatoes can bring additional depth. Just remember to adjust the seasoning accordingly, as these ingredients can change the saltiness of the filling.

Choosing the Right Jalapenos

Selecting the right jalapenos is crucial for achieving a balanced flavor in your poppers. Look for firm peppers that are bright green and free of blemishes. The size is also important; larger jalapenos provide more flesh for stuffing, but they tend to be milder. If you prefer your poppers with extra heat, opt for smaller, skinnier jalapenos, which tend to pack more spice. Always taste a bit of the pepper before stuffing to gauge its heat level.

For those who may not tolerate spiciness well, removing most of the seeds and membranes will significantly reduce the heat while still giving you that characteristic jalapeno flavor. You can also choose to substitute with other peppers, such as Anaheim or Poblano, that maintain a similar texture but have varying heat levels.

Ingredients

For the Jalapeno Poppers:

12 large jalapeno peppers
4 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
2 tbsp fresh chives, chopped
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
Olive oil for drizzling

Instructions

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes. Set aside.

Make the Filling

In a bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, chives, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Stuff the Peppers

Spoon the cheese mixture into each jalapeno half, packing it in generously. If using breadcrumbs, sprinkle them on top for added crunch.

Bake the Poppers

Place the stuffed jalapenos on a baking sheet. Drizzle a little olive oil over the tops. Bake for 15 minutes or until the peppers are tender and the filling is bubbly.

Serve

Allow the poppers to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm, and they will be a hit at your gathering!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding cooked bacon bits to the cheese mixture. You can also experiment with different types of cheese for varying flavor profiles.

Make-Ahead Tips

Jalapeno poppers can be assembled ahead of time, making them a great option for busy gatherings. Prepare the jalapeno halves and stuffing mixture a few hours in advance. Stuff the peppers but hold off on baking until you're ready to serve. Cover the tray tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate; they can be stored this way for up to 24 hours without losing flavor or texture.

If you're planning on making a larger batch, consider freezing the stuffed jalapeno poppers before baking. Lay them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to an airtight container. Frozen poppers can be baked straight from the freezer, just add a few extra minutes to the baking time, monitoring closely until they are tender and the filling is bubbly.

Serving Suggestions

To amp up the flavor experience, serve your jalapeno poppers with a variety of dipping sauces. A cooling ranch or blue cheese dip complements the spiciness beautifully, while a tangy salsa or guacamole can add freshness. For a little twist, try a sriracha-lime sauce for those who crave an extra kick, providing a perfect counterbalance to the creamy filling.

These poppers are perfect as appetizers or the star of your game day spread. Pair them with other finger foods like sliders or buffalo wings for a well-rounded menu. And don’t forget to offer drinks that can complement the spicy notes; a light lager or refreshing lemonade can help offset the heat.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare jalapeno poppers in advance?

Yes, you can stuff the jalapenos a day ahead of time, then just bake them when you’re ready to serve.

→ How spicy are these jalapeno poppers?

The spice level varies based on the jalapeno variety and how many seeds you leave in. For mild poppers, remove the seeds and membranes thoroughly.

→ Can I freeze jalapeno poppers?

Absolutely! You can freeze them before baking. Just thaw and bake when you're ready to eat.

→ What dipping sauce goes well with jalapeno poppers?

Creamy ranch dressing or a spicy aioli pairs wonderfully with jalapeno poppers.