Spicy Cheddar Jalapeno Poppers

Name: Spicy Cheddar Jalapeno Poppers
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 poppers
Ingredients: 12 large jalapeno peppers, halved and seeded; 4 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional); Oil spray for baking

Highlighted under: Global Culinary Recipe Ideas

I absolutely love whipping up these Spicy Cheddar Jalapeno Poppers for game nights or casual gatherings. The combination of creamy cheese, spicy jalapenos, and crispy bacon creates a flavor explosion that everyone craves. Plus, they are surprisingly easy to make! Once baked to golden perfection, these poppers become the star of the show. Trust me, the aroma alone will have your guests lining up for seconds!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-16T13:42:28.938Z

Every time I make these Spicy Cheddar Jalapeno Poppers, I’m reminded of a trip I took to a family barbecue where I first tasted them. The mix of creamy cheddar and spicy jalapenos was a game-changer for me. I found that roasting the jalapenos before stuffing them enhances their flavor and maintains the perfect amount of heat. There’s something about that contrast that makes each bite irresistibly delicious!

One tip I swear by is using a mix of cheeses; sharp cheddar gives bold flavor, while cream cheese adds that creamy texture everyone loves. If you want to kick things up a notch, try adding crumbled sausage to the filling for an even heartier popper. Your guests won’t be able to get enough!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Bold and spicy flavor with creamy cheese
Perfectly crispy texture from the baking method
Easy to make and great for sharing

      

Choosing the Right Jalapenos

When selecting jalapenos for your poppers, look for firm, glossy peppers that are vibrant green in color. Avoid any that appear shriveled or have dark spots, as these may indicate spoilage. The size of the jalapenos also matters; larger peppers will give you ample room for stuffing but can also vary in heat. If you prefer a milder popper, opt for medium-sized peppers; they typically have a more balanced flavor and less intense heat.

If you want to adjust the spice level, you can also consider roasting your jalapenos prior to stuffing them. This adds a smoky flavor and slightly mellows the heat. Simply roast them under the broiler for a few minutes until the skin blisters, then peel off the charred skin before stuffing. This method not only enhances the flavor but can also provide a unique twist to your jalapeno poppers.

Making the Perfect Cheese Filling

The filling for your jalapeno poppers is key to achieving that creamy and flavorful bite. Using a combination of cream cheese and sharp cheddar gives a rich texture with a robust taste. I recommend allowing your cream cheese to soften at room temperature for at least 30 minutes; this will make it easier to mix with the other ingredients. For an even creamier filling, consider adding a bit of sour cream or mayonnaise into the mix, which will also help to balance the heat of the jalapenos.

Be mindful not to overmix the filling. Stirring just until combined ensures that your poppers have a chunkier texture, which contrastingly enhances the crunchiness of the bacon bits. For additional flavor boosts, consider mixing in herbs like chives or cilantro. These not only brighten the filling but also add another layer of freshness that pairs beautifully with the spicy jalapenos.

Ingredients

For the Jalapeno Poppers

12 large jalapeno peppers, halved and seeded
4 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
Oil spray for baking

Steps

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the jalapenos in half lengthwise and carefully remove the seeds and membranes. This will help reduce the heat.

Make the Filling

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

Stuff the Jalapenos

Spoon the cheese filling into each jalapeno half, pressing gently to pack the filling in. If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for extra crunch.

Bake the Poppers

Place the stuffed jalapenos on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly spray them with oil. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until they are golden and bubbly.

Serve and Enjoy

Remove the poppers from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your spicy creations with a side of ranch or guacamole!

Pro Tips

For a milder flavor, use less spicy jalapenos or remove more of the seeds and membranes. You can also experiment with different cheese blends to suit your taste.

Storage and Reheating Tips

These jalapeno poppers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days after baking. If you have leftovers, they can be reheated in the oven to maintain their crispy texture. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), place the poppers on a baking sheet, and reheat for about 10-15 minutes or until thoroughly warmed. Avoid using the microwave, as this can make the poppers soggy.

For longer storage, you can freeze unbaked jalapeno poppers. Simply prepare them up to the baking stage, arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. When ready to serve, bake directly from frozen, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time until they’re golden and bubbly.

Variations and Customizations

Feel free to get creative with your jalapeno poppers by experimenting with different fillings! For a Tex-Mex twist, consider adding shredded chicken or black beans to the cheese mixture. Additionally, incorporating spices such as cumin or smoked paprika can introduce an unexpected depth of flavor. If you're feeling adventurous, try using different types of cheese like pepper jack for an extra kick or goat cheese for a tangy flavor.

If you're catering to dietary restrictions, consider using vegan cream cheese and dairy-free cheeses to make these poppers suitable for vegan guests. You can also substitute traditional bacon with turkey bacon or smoked tempeh for a lower-fat option that still delivers that smoky, savory element. These adaptations allow you to cater the recipe to various preferences while keeping the heart of this delicious dish intact.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare these poppers in advance?

Yes! You can stuff the jalapenos a few hours before baking and store them in the fridge until ready to bake.

→ Can I use other kinds of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese for additional flavor.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the oven for best results.

→ Are these gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free breadcrumbs or omit them, these poppers will be gluten-free.