Stuffed Jalapeño Poppers with Cream Cheese

Name: Stuffed Jalapeño Poppers with Cream Cheese
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 poppers
Ingredients: 12 large jalapeños; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup cooked bacon, chopped; 1/4 cup green onions, chopped; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional)

Highlighted under: Comfort Meal Recipes

Stuffed Jalapeño Poppers with Cream Cheese are the ultimate party snack, bursting with flavor and perfect for any gathering.

Created by

Luca

Last updated on 2026-01-04T07:46:28.817Z

These Stuffed Jalapeño Poppers with Cream Cheese are a crowd-pleaser at any event. The creamy filling contrasts perfectly with the spicy jalapeños, creating a delightful bite. Great for game days, parties, or just a fun snack at home!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Perfect balance of spicy and creamy flavors
Easy to prepare and perfect for gatherings
Customizable with your choice of herbs and spices

      

The Perfect Party Snack

Stuffed Jalapeño Poppers are a crowd-pleaser, making them an ideal choice for any party or gathering. Their vibrant appearance and tantalizing aroma will draw guests in, while their delicious taste keeps them coming back for more. These poppers can be served as an appetizer or a snack, and they pair perfectly with a variety of dips, making them a versatile addition to your menu.

One of the most appealing aspects of these jalapeño poppers is their ability to cater to different tastes. Whether your guests prefer a milder bite or a spicy kick, you can easily adjust the heat level by leaving some seeds in the jalapeños or opting for different spices in the filling. This customization allows you to satisfy a wide range of palates, ensuring everyone enjoys this delectable treat.

Quick and Easy Preparation

Preparing stuffed jalapeño poppers is a straightforward process that doesn’t require advanced cooking skills. With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, you'll have a dish that impresses without causing you stress in the kitchen. The use of cream cheese and cheddar cheese creates a rich and creamy filling that complements the jalapeños beautifully, and adding cooked bacon enhances the savory flavors.

Additionally, the entire process can be completed in under an hour, making it a perfect last-minute snack option. You can easily prepare the filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to stuff and bake the jalapeños. This flexibility allows you to enjoy more time with your guests while still serving a delicious homemade treat.

Variations to Try

While the classic cream cheese filling is undeniably delicious, don’t be afraid to get creative with your stuffed jalapeños. You can incorporate different cheeses, such as goat cheese or pepper jack, to add new flavors. Consider mixing in herbs like cilantro or parsley for a fresh twist, or add spices like cumin or chili powder for an extra kick.

For those looking for a healthier option, you can substitute the bacon with sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms. This not only reduces the calories but also adds a different texture and flavor profile. The possibilities are endless with stuffed jalapeños, allowing you to tailor the recipe to your preferences or dietary needs.

Ingredients

For the Stuffed Jalapeño Poppers

12 large jalapeños
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup cooked bacon, chopped
1/4 cup green onions, chopped
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional)

Make sure to wear gloves when handling jalapeños to avoid irritation.

Instructions

Prepare the Jalapeños

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

Make the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, cheddar cheese, bacon, green onions, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Stuff the Jalapeños

Using a spoon or piping bag, fill each jalapeño half with the cheese mixture. If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for added crunch.

Bake

Place the stuffed jalapeños on a baking sheet and bake for 25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the jalapeños are tender.

Let the poppers cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!

Serving Suggestions

Stuffed jalapeño poppers can be served in various ways to enhance the eating experience. Consider pairing them with dipping sauces like ranch, blue cheese, or a zesty salsa. These sauces not only complement the flavors of the poppers but also add an extra layer of excitement to each bite, making them even more enjoyable for your guests.

You can also serve the poppers on a platter with fresh vegetables or chips for a colorful and appealing presentation. This not only makes the dish visually attractive but also provides a contrast in texture and flavor that can enhance the overall enjoyment of your snack selection.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers (which is often unlikely!), stuffed jalapeño poppers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you're ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. This quick reheating method helps maintain their crispy texture and delicious filling.

For longer storage, you can freeze the unbaked stuffed jalapeños. Just prepare them as directed, place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, and once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. When you're ready to bake, there's no need to thaw; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time for perfectly cooked poppers.

Nutritional Information

While stuffed jalapeño poppers are a delightful treat, it's essential to be mindful of their nutritional content. Each popper typically contains a combination of protein from the cheese and bacon, along with carbohydrates from the breadcrumbs (if used). This dish can be a great source of energy for a party, but moderation is key, especially if you’re conscious of your caloric intake.

To make a healthier version, consider using low-fat cream cheese, reducing the amount of cheese, or increasing the vegetable content in the filling. These modifications can help you enjoy this delicious snack without compromising your health goals. Remember, it's all about balance and enjoying the flavors you love!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these poppers in advance?

Yes! You can prepare the jalapeños and filling a day ahead and store them in the refrigerator. Just bake them right before serving.

→ What can I serve with jalapeño poppers?

They pair well with dips like ranch or blue cheese dressing, or you can serve them with salsa for an extra kick.

→ Can I freeze the stuffed jalapeños?

Absolutely! You can freeze them before baking. Just bake them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

→ Are there any alternatives to cream cheese?

Yes! You can use sour cream, ricotta cheese, or even a dairy-free cream cheese if you want a lighter option.