Jalapeno Poppers with Cheddar

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Cheddar
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 poppers
Ingredients: 12 fresh jalapenos; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Cooking spray

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making Jalapeno Poppers with Cheddar because they are a perfect blend of spicy and rich flavors that never fail to impress. Whether I'm serving them at a game day gathering or simply indulging on a weekend, these bite-sized treats are always a hit. The creamy cheddar filling with a kick from fresh jalapenos creates the ultimate snacking experience. Plus, they are surprisingly easy to whip up, making them a go-to recipe whenever I'm craving something fun and flavorful.

Created by

Olivia Barrett

Last updated on 2026-01-10T12:40:11.490Z

When I first tried making Jalapeno Poppers, I was amazed at how simple they were to prepare. The key is to select fresh jalapenos—this not only gives the poppers the right amount of heat but also enhances the overall flavor. Over the years, I've experimented with various cheese combinations, but nothing beats rich, creamy cheddar for that perfect melt.

Another tip I've discovered is to cut the jalapenos lengthwise rather than from the top. This not only maximizes the filling space but also makes for a beautiful presentation when serving. The combination of crispy bacon and gooey cheese truly elevates these poppers, and I can’t wait for you to try them!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Deliciously spicy with a satisfying crunch
Creamy cheddar filling that pairs perfectly with jalapenos
Great for parties or as a fun snack at home

      

Perfecting Your Jalapeno Poppers

When prepping the jalapenos, consider the level of heat you desire. Removing the seeds and membranes significantly lowers the spiciness, making them more palatable for those with a lower spice tolerance. If you're looking for an extra kick, leave a few seeds in—this also provides a nice contrast to the creamy cheddar filling. Use a sharp knife for clean cuts, and wear gloves to avoid any irritation from the peppers.

The texture of the filling is crucial for a successful popper. I recommend a smooth blend that incorporates all ingredients evenly. This ensures that every bite is creamy and flavorful. To achieve this, thoroughly mix the cream cheese and cheddar until cohesive, and make sure the bacon is crumbled finely so that it distributes well throughout the filling. This balance is vital for your poppers to stand out.

Baking Tips for Optimal Results

Baking at the right temperature is essential to achieve that perfect golden edge on the jalapenos. At 375°F (190°C), you'll find the cheese bubbling beautifully, while the jalapenos soften without losing their structure. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of baking; once the cheese begins to brown slightly, you know they're done. This visual cue helps prevent overcooking, which can lead to mushy poppers.

If you want to make these poppers in advance, they refrigerate well before baking. Assemble everything and cover the tray tightly with plastic wrap. When ready to serve, just pop them in the oven straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to your baking time. This makes them perfect for busy game days or spontaneous gatherings.

Ingredients

For the Jalapeno Poppers

12 fresh jalapenos
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking spray

Instructions

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes to reduce the heat, if desired.

Mix the Filling

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

Stuff the Jalapenos

Spoon the cheese mixture generously into each jalapeno half and place them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Lightly spray them with cooking spray.

Bake

Bake for 15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and the jalapenos are tender. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.

Pro Tips

For extra smoky flavor, consider adding smoked paprika to the cheese mixture. Additionally, serving these poppers with a side of ranch dressing or your favorite dipping sauce elevates the experience.

Serving Suggestions

Jalapeno poppers are versatile and can be served with a variety of dipping sauces. A homemade ranch dressing or creamy avocado dip complements the spiciness perfectly. If you're feeling adventurous, try serving them with a tangy balsamic glaze or a sweet chili sauce for a unique twist. Presentation matters, so arrange them on a colorful platter with fresh herbs for a touch of elegance.

For an elevated experience, consider including other fillings. A blend of cream cheese and blue cheese can add a bold flavor, while chorizo or spicy sausage can be used instead of bacon for a meaty variation. This not only diversifies the flavors but also allows you to cater to different taste preferences.

Variations and Add-Ons

Experimenting with different cheeses can yield exciting results with this recipe. Adding jalapeno jack cheese or pepper jack creates a spicier filling that enhances the overall kick. If you prefer a milder taste, a blend of mozzarella and cheddar will keep things creamy without overwhelming heat. Feel free to mix and match based on your cheese preferences!

If you want to add more nutrition, consider packing the poppers with finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers or corn mixed into the filling. This not only provides a splash of color but also adds texture and flavor, creating a more robust bite. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some extra veggies!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the jalapenos and fill them with the cheese mixture a few hours in advance. Just refrigerate until you're ready to bake.

→ How can I make them less spicy?

To reduce the heat, ensure you remove all the seeds and membranes from the jalapenos before filling them.

→ What is a good vegetarian replacement for bacon?

You can use vegetarian bacon bits or simply omit the bacon and add more cheese or herbs for flavor.

→ Can I use other types of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with cheeses like pepper jack for added spice or mozzarella for a milder version.