Spicy Cheddar Jalapeno Poppers

Name: Spicy Cheddar Jalapeno Poppers
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 10 poppers
Ingredients: 10 large jalapenos; 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; 4 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp onion powder; 1/4 tsp smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup breadcrumbs; Oil spray for baking

Highlighted under: FlashCook Meals Fast & Simple

I absolutely love making Spicy Cheddar Jalapeno Poppers for gatherings! There’s something magical about the combination of heat from the jalapenos and the creamy, melty cheddar filling. Each bite is a burst of flavor that always disappears quickly at parties. I also enjoy experimenting with the spices to customize them to my taste. They’re easy to whip up and perfect for serving guests when you want something that's packed with personality. Trust me, your friends will be begging for the recipe!

Created by

Marco

Last updated on 2026-01-15T10:49:35.598Z

When I first tried making jalapeno poppers, I was blown away by how simple yet delicious they are. I remember the first batch I made, the spicy kick combined with the tangy cheddar was a hit! Ever since then, I’ve refined my method to ensure the poppers are crispy on the outside and perfectly creamy on the inside.

One tip I learned is to soak the jalapenos in water for about 10 minutes before baking. This enhances their crunchiness and helps balance the spice. Trust me, it makes a noticeable difference! Now, I can’t host a party without these poppers on the table!

        Why You'll Love These Poppers
        Sinfully cheesy with just the right amount of heat
Crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside
Perfectly shareable and addictive for any gathering

      

Perfecting the Poppers

To achieve the perfect balance between crispy and creamy, it's essential to ensure your jalapenos are fresh and firm. When selecting them, look for bright green skin without any blemishes. This freshness contributes to a delightful crunch on the outside once baked. Cutting them in half and removing the seeds can also be tailored to your heat preference, creating a milder or spicier popper based on your guests' tastes.

A critical step in making these poppers irresistible is the filling consistency. When mixing the cheddar and cream cheese, let the cream cheese soften at room temperature for 15-20 minutes beforehand to avoid lumps. The cream cheese provides a creamy texture that balances well with the sharpness of the cheddar. This mixture should be thick enough to hold its shape yet smooth enough to spread easily.

Baking Tips for Maximum Crispiness

The breadcrumb coating is integral to the poppers' texture. For extra crunch, consider using panko breadcrumbs instead of regular ones; they have a larger surface area and yield a more delightful crunch. When coating the jalapenos, ensure each piece is well-covered for uniform crispiness in the oven. Lightly spraying them with oil not only helps the breadcrumbs adhere but also promotes browning during baking.

Baking time can vary based on your oven and the size of the jalapenos. Aim for about 25 minutes at 375°F (190°C), keeping an eye out for golden edges and a bubbly filling. If you like your poppers extra crispy, a quick broil for the last 2-3 minutes can add a beautiful golden finish. Just be vigilant during this time, as they can go from perfect to burnt quickly!

Ingredients

For the Poppers

10 large jalapenos
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
4 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/4 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup breadcrumbs
Oil spray for baking

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Prepare the Jalapenos

Slice the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes if you prefer less heat. Soak them in water for 10 minutes, then pat dry.

Make the Filling

In a bowl, mix the cheddar cheese, cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Stuff the Jalapenos

Fill each jalapeno half with the cheese mixture, packing it slightly for a generous amount of filling.

Coat and Bake

Dip the filled jalapenos in breadcrumbs to coat. Place them on the prepared baking sheet and spray lightly with oil. Bake for 25 minutes until golden and crispy.

Pro Tips

For an extra twist, consider adding cooked bacon bits to the cheese mixture or topping the poppers with a drizzle of hot sauce before serving.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking for a lower-fat option, you can substitute part-skim mozzarella for the sharp cheddar. While the flavor profile will shift, it still melts beautifully and offers that creamy texture. Additionally, if dairy is a concern, using dairy-free cream cheese can work as an alternative, while still achieving a similar creamy filling when combined with a dairy-free cheddar.

For those who prefer a different flavor twist, consider adding crumbled bacon or diced green onions to the filling for an extra burst of flavor. Alternatively, mix in some diced sun-dried tomatoes or olives to give the poppers an unexpected Mediterranean flair. These substitutions can elevate the dish while keeping the process straightforward.

Storing and Reheating

If you have any leftovers (which is rare, but possible!), store the poppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat them, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake on a parchment-lined baking sheet for 10-15 minutes until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the breadcrumb coating soggy instead of crispy.

For meal prep, you can assemble the poppers ahead of time and store them uncooked in the fridge for up to a day. When ready to bake, you can add a few extra minutes to the baking time, ensuring they reach the desired crispness. Freezing is another excellent option; simply freeze the unbaked poppers on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be baked straight from frozen, adjusting the baking time up to 30 minutes.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare these ahead of time?

Yes! You can stuff the jalapenos a few hours in advance and store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake.

→ How spicy are these poppers?

The spice level depends largely on the jalapenos you use. Removing the seeds reduces the heat significantly.

→ Can I use other types of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack or mozzarella for a unique twist.

→ What can I serve with these poppers?

They pair well with sour cream, guacamole, or a spicy ranch dressing for dipping.