Jalapeno Poppers with Panko Crust

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Panko Crust
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 cup panko breadcrumbs; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil for drizzling

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I can’t get enough of these Jalapeno Poppers with Panko Crust! Every time I make them, they disappear in a flash. The combination of spicy jalapenos, creamy cheese, and that delightful crispy panko topping creates an irresistible snack for any occasion. Whether it's for game day or a cozy movie night at home, these poppers always hit the spot. They’re surprisingly easy to prepare, and I love that I can adjust the spice level based on my preference. Time to spice up your appetizer game!

Created by

Olivia Barrett

Last updated on 2026-01-10T12:40:18.151Z

I remember the first time I made these Jalapeno Poppers. I was hosting a small gathering and wanted to impress my friends with a crowd-pleaser. The blend of cream cheese and spices stuffed inside the jalapenos was delightful, but the real magic happened when I topped them off with panko breadcrumbs.

The crispy texture adds a great contrast to the creamy filling while keeping that unmistakable jalapeno kick. I’ve found that cooking them in the oven rather than frying allows the panko to get just the right level of crunch without the oiliness. Trust me, your guests will be asking for the recipe!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Crispy panko crust provides the perfect texture contrast
Creamy cheese filling compliments the heat of the jalapenos
Easy to customize for different spice levels

      

Understanding Jalapeno Heat

Selecting the right jalapenos is crucial for achieving your desired spice level. The heat of a jalapeno comes from its seeds and membranes, so for milder poppers, be thorough when removing both. If you enjoy a bit more heat, leave a few seeds in or choose fresher, smaller jalapenos, which tend to pack more punch. Always taste a small piece before cooking to judge the overall spiciness.

Another fun tip is to experiment with different types of peppers! While jalapenos are classic, you can substitute them with serranos for a hotter kick or even sweet bell peppers if heat isn’t your thing. This flexibility allows you to customize your poppers for any crowd!

Perfecting the Cream Cheese Filling

The cream cheese blend is the star of your poppers, providing richness that balances the jalapeno's heat. Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature; this will make blending much easier and result in a smoother filling. You can add other ingredients like crumbled bacon or herbs such as chives or cilantro for an extra flavor boost. Just remember that additional ingredients should not overwhelm the primary cheese flavor.

Once you've mixed your filling, consider chilling it for about 15 minutes before filling the jalapenos. This brief rest can help the flavors meld together better and makes spooning it into the jalapeno halves a little less messy.

Baking and Serving Tips

Baking these jalapeno poppers until the panko is golden is important, as this ensures they are crispy all the way through. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of baking to prevent burning; oven temperatures can vary. If they aren’t browning to your liking, broil for an additional 1-2 minutes for that perfect finish, but watch closely to avoid overcooking.

When serving, a drizzle of balsamic glaze or a side of ranch dressing can elevate your poppers even further. These are perfect for parties or family movie nights. If there are leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. You can easily reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore their crispy crust.

Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients before you start to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Ingredients

12 fresh jalapenos
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for drizzling

Make sure to mix your filling well for an even spread.

Instructions

Prepare your workspace by preheating the oven and lining a baking sheet.

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice each jalapeno in half lengthwise and remove the seeds for less heat.

Make the Filling

In a bowl, combine the cream cheese, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.

Fill the Jalapenos

Spoon the cheese mixture into each jalapeno half, making sure to fill them generously.

Coat with Panko

Dip each filled jalapeno in panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere. Lay them on the prepared baking sheet.

Bake

Drizzle olive oil over the poppers and bake in the oven for 15 minutes, or until the panko is golden and crispy.

Let the poppers cool for a few minutes before serving to avoid burning your mouth!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, add cooked bacon bits to the cheese filling.

Ingredient Role and Importance

The panko breadcrumbs are what make these poppers stand out with their crispy texture. Unlike traditional breadcrumbs, panko is lighter and creates a crunchier coating. Be sure to use panko rather than standard breadcrumbs for the best results. You might even add additional seasonings to your panko for enhanced flavor—think Italian herbs or smoked paprika for a smoky twist.

Cream cheese serves as the creamy backbone of the filling. If you want a lower-fat option, consider using a reduced-fat cream cheese. However, be cautious of using non-dairy cream cheeses, as they can have a watery consistency that may not bind well with the other ingredients.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your poppers end up being too spicy, consider serving them with cooling accompaniments like sour cream or yogurt. This can help mellow the overall heat and enhance the flavor without masking it. Conversely, if you've made them too mild, a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes on the top before baking can add an extra bit of heat.

Another common challenge is ensuring the filling stays put while baking. If you find that your cheese mixture is too runny, you might not have blended it enough or used too much cream cheese. Aim for a consistency that holds its shape when spooned—it shouldn't be overly soft.

Make-Ahead and Storage Options

These jalapeno poppers can be made in advance, making them a fantastic party snack. You can prepare the filled jalapenos completely and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you're starting with cold poppers from the fridge.

For longer storage, consider freezing uncooked poppers. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer bag. They can be baked straight from the freezer; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time. This makes for an effortless snack whenever the craving hits!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these poppers ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare them, place them on the baking sheet, and cover them in the fridge until you're ready to bake.

→ How can I reduce the spiciness?

Removing the seeds and inner membranes of the jalapenos will significantly lower their heat level.

→ Can I use other cheeses?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix different cheeses like pepper jack, mozzarella, or even goat cheese for a unique flavor.

→ What's the best way to store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to regain the crispiness.