Jalapeno Poppers with Herb Cream Cheese

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Herb Cream Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 24 poppers
Ingredients: 12 large jalapenos; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/4 cup fresh herbs (chives, parsley, or cilantro), chopped; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup breadcrumbs; Olive oil spray

Highlighted under: Instant Meals

I absolutely love making Jalapeno Poppers with Herb Cream Cheese for gatherings and game days. There's something incredibly satisfying about biting into a crispy, cheesy pepper that’s just bursting with flavor. This recipe brings together the spicy kick of jalapenos and the herby, creamy goodness of the filling. Each popper is a little flavor bomb that never fails to impress my friends and family, and trust me, they disappear quickly!

Created by

Theodora Blythe

Last updated on 2026-01-13T03:37:34.658Z

When I first tried Jalapeno Poppers at a friend's barbecue, I was hooked. Their delicious mix of spice and creaminess was unforgettable. I knew I had to recreate them at home, but my goal was to elevate them with a herb-infused cream cheese filling. After a bit of experimentation, I found that incorporating fresh herbs really makes a difference in flavor, and it pairs beautifully with the jalapenos.

Each time I whip up a batch of these poppers, I like to experiment with different herbs like chives or dill. This not only adds personality to the dish but also keeps things exciting for my taste buds. Baking instead of frying is my secret to making these poppers a little healthier, while still ensuring they come out crispy and satisfying.

        Why You Will Love These Poppers
        Spicy jalapeno heat balanced by creamy herb cheese
Crispy exterior with a fluffy filling
Perfect as an appetizer or a fun snack

      

The Importance of Choosing the Right Jalapenos

When making jalapeno poppers, selecting the right peppers can significantly impact the overall flavor and heat level of your dish. Look for firm, glossy jalapenos that are bright green, as these will ensure a better crunch and a fresh taste. The size of the peppers also matters; larger jalapenos are easier to stuff and generally have a more succulent flesh, perfect for holding onto the cream cheese filling. If you're unsure about the heat, take a bite of one before cutting them open to gauge their spiciness.

If you prefer milder poppers, consider using a few fewer jalapenos or removing all the seeds and membranes, as they contain most of the heat. Alternatively, you could use sweeter pepper varieties, such as bell peppers or poblano peppers, for a more subdued flavor. Just be mindful that the cooking time may need slight adjustments, as these peppers are generally thicker.

Crafting the Perfect Filling

The filling is where the magic happens in jalapeno poppers, and using high-quality ingredients can create a notable difference in taste. Fresh herbs like chives, parsley, or cilantro introduce a brightness that complements the sharpness of the cheese and the jalapenos’ heat. Feel free to experiment with different herb combinations based on your preference. I find that a combination of softened cream cheese and cheddar gives the filling a creamy yet slightly tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with the spicy pepper.

For a different twist, consider adding some smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce to the filling for an extra layer of flavor. Additionally, you can incorporate extras such as crumbled bacon or cooked sausage for added richness. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly, as these additions can contribute saltiness to the overall mix.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your Jalapeno Poppers:

For the Jalapeno Poppers

12 large jalapenos
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup fresh herbs (chives, parsley, or cilantro), chopped
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup breadcrumbs
Olive oil spray

Make sure all the ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your Jalapeno Poppers:

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes for a milder flavor.

Make the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, cheddar cheese, fresh herbs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.

Stuff the Jalapenos

Spoon the cheese mixture into each jalapeno half generously, then press them down slightly to ensure they are well-filled.

Bread the Poppers

Dip each stuffed jalapeno into breadcrumbs, ensuring they are fully coated for a crunchy topping.

Bake

Place the stuffed and breaded jalapenos on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly spray them with olive oil. Bake in the oven for 20 minutes or until golden and crispy.

Let the poppers cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding some cooked bacon into the cream cheese mixture. This adds a delicious savory element that pairs perfectly with the spice of the jalapenos.

Serving Suggestions

Jalapeno poppers can be served with a variety of dips to complement their flavor. Creamy sauces like ranch dressing or a zesty cilantro-lime dip provide a cooling contrast to the spiciness of the peppers. You could also serve them alongside salsa or guacamole for a delightful twist. These additions can elevate your poppers and make for an impressive spread at gatherings.

For a complete snack platter, consider pairing jalapeno poppers with other finger foods like buffalo wings or loaded nachos. This variety adds visual appeal to your table and offers guests more options to explore, but be sure to keep the spice levels consistent to maintain a harmonious balance.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Jalapeno poppers are fantastic make-ahead appetizers. You can assemble the poppers up to a day in advance, then store them in the refrigerator, tightly covered. This allows the flavors to meld and enables for a quicker prep on the day of your event. Just remember to let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before baking to help them cook more evenly.

If you're looking to freeze your poppers, assemble them and then flash freeze on a baking sheet before transferring them to a sealed freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, bake them directly from frozen, increasing your baking time by about 5-10 minutes until they are heated through and golden brown.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these poppers ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare them and store them in the refrigerator before baking. Just bake them right before you plan to serve.

→ Are these poppers very spicy?

The spice level depends on the jalapenos used. For milder poppers, be sure to remove all the seeds and membranes.

→ What can I substitute for cream cheese?

You can use mascarpone or a vegan cream cheese alternative for a dairy-free option.

→ Can I freeze jalapeno poppers?

Yes, you can freeze them before baking. Just ensure to place them in an airtight container. Bake directly from the freezer when ready.