Jalapeno Poppers with Cheddar and Garlic

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Cheddar and Garlic
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 12 poppers
Ingredients: 12 fresh jalapenos, halved and seeded; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 tsp smoked paprika; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional); Cooking spray or oil for greasing

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I absolutely love making Jalapeno Poppers with Cheddar and Garlic for gatherings or just as a weekend treat. The combination of spicy jalapenos with creamy cheddar and the subtle garlic flavor creates a mouthwatering appetizer that never fails to impress. Each bite is a perfect balance of heat and richness, making them incredibly addictive! Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to prepare, and you can have them ready in under 30 minutes. Trust me, these poppers will delight your taste buds and leave everyone asking for the recipe!

Created by

Arabelle Finch

Last updated on 2026-01-05T17:50:42.270Z

When I first attempted Jalapeno Poppers, I was amazed at how the spicy heat of the jalapenos complemented the rich creaminess of the cheese. I experimented with different fillings but soon discovered that a classic mix of cheddar and garlic provided the ultimate flavor explosion. Every bite is an adventure that tickles the palate!

One of my best tips is to remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapenos. This simple step allows you to control the spice level and concentrate on the delightful combination of flavors. These poppers are perfect for any occasion, and I guarantee they will be the star of your appetizer spread!

        Why You'll Love These Poppers
        Spicy heat balanced with creamy cheese goodness
Easy to customize and super fun to make
Perfect for parties, game day, or casual snacking

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The foundation of these Jalapeno Poppers lies in the combination of cream cheese and cheddar. Cream cheese provides a smooth, spreadable base that helps to balance out the spiciness of the jalapenos, while cheddar cheese adds a sharp, tangy flavor that complements the smoky garlic. Feel free to experiment with different cheese blends; for a stronger cheese flavor, you might try sharp or extra sharp cheddar or even a pepper jack for added heat.

Smoked paprika is a key ingredient that not only enhances the overall taste but also adds a subtle smokiness that pairs beautifully with the jalapenos. If you don’t have smoked paprika on hand, regular paprika mixed with a pinch of cayenne or chipotle can work as an excellent substitute, creating a similar depth of flavor. The choice of spices can significantly affect the overall outcome, so consider adjusting them to match your own taste preferences.

Mastering the Stuffing Technique

When filling the jalapeno halves, using a piping bag can make the process cleaner and help you achieve a more even filling. If you don’t have one, a simple zip-top bag with a corner snipped off works just as well! Make sure to pack the cheese mixture firmly into each half to prevent it from spilling out during baking. This technique ensures that every bite is packed with flavor and richness.

If you want to cut down on the heat but still enjoy the flavor of jalapenos, consider soaking them in cold water for about 30 minutes before preparing. This can help to leach out some of the capsaicin, the compound responsible for the heat, resulting in a milder flavor. Additionally, removing all the seeds and membranes is crucial, as these parts contain the most heat. Tailoring the spice level allows you to cater to different taste preferences at your gatherings.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Jalapeno Poppers

12 fresh jalapenos, halved and seeded
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
Cooking spray or oil for greasing

Instructions

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Carefully slice the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes. This can be done with a small spoon or a knife.

Make the Filling

In a bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, minced garlic, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Mix until well blended and creamy.

Stuff the Jalapenos

Using a spoon or a piping bag, fill each jalapeno half with the cheese mixture, pressing it down slightly to pack it in.

Add Breadcrumbs (Optional)

If you prefer a crunchy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the stuffed jalapenos.

Bake the Poppers

Arrange the stuffed jalapenos on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly spray with cooking spray or drizzle with oil. Bake for 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and the jalapenos are tender.

Serve

Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve warm as a delicious appetizer!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding cooked sausage or bacon bits to the cheese mixture. You can also serve with a side of ranch dressing for dipping!

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

These jalapeno poppers can be partially prepared ahead of time for convenience. You can stuff the jalapenos and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator up to 24 hours before baking. This not only saves time on the day of your gathering but also allows the flavors to meld together, making the poppers even tastier.

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid using the microwave as it can make the jalapenos soggy, diminishing their delightful crispy texture.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

For a fun twist on the classic recipe, consider adding crumbled bacon or cooked sausage to the cheese filling for an additional layer of flavor. You can also mix in chopped green onions or fresh herbs like cilantro or chives to enhance the freshness. These variations keep the dish exciting and allow for personal touches based on what you have on hand.

When serving, consider pairing these poppers with a cooling dipping sauce, such as a ranch or sour cream-based dip, to balance out the heat. A squeeze of fresh lime juice right before serving can also brighten the flavor, giving a fresh contrast to the richness of the cheeses.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the jalapenos and the filling in advance. Just stuff them and refrigerate until you are ready to bake.

→ How can I adjust the spice level?

To reduce heat, make sure to remove all seeds and membranes from the jalapenos. For more heat, leave some of the seeds in or even add diced jalapenos to the cheese mixture.

→ What if I can't find fresh jalapenos?

You can substitute fresh jalapenos with canned jalapenos if necessary, but the flavor and texture will differ slightly.

→ Can I use other cheeses?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, like pepper jack or mozzarella, for varied flavor profiles.