Jalapeno Poppers with Panko Crust

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Panko Crust
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 poppers
Ingredients: 12 large jalapenos; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup panko breadcrumbs; 1/2 tsp paprika; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 egg, beaten

Highlighted under: Classic Baking Recipes

I absolutely love making Jalapeno Poppers with Panko Crust for gatherings or when I just crave a delicious snack. The combination of creamy cheese and the spicy kick from jalapenos, all encrusted in crispy panko, always satisfies my taste buds. Plus, the recipe is surprisingly simple to whip up, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether served as an appetizer or a late-night snack, these poppers never fail to impress. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that guarantees to tantalize your palate!

Created by

Harriet Bloom

Last updated on 2026-01-12T07:03:34.788Z

Making Jalapeno Poppers with Panko Crust has become a tradition in my house, especially for game nights. I've experimented with different fillings, but nothing beats the classic cream cheese blend mixed with spices. Recently, I added a hint of garlic, and it truly elevated the flavor! It's simple techniques like these that make a huge difference in taste.

One tip I can share is to slice the jalapenos lengthwise and remove the seeds thoroughly. This step ensures you can control the heat level, which is crucial if you have guests with varying spice tolerance. Trust me, careful preparation is key to perfection!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        The perfect balance of heat and creaminess
Crispy panko crust adds an irresistible crunch
Ideal for parties, game nights, or a cozy movie marathon

      

Perfecting the Jalapeno Preparation

When selecting jalapenos, look for firm, glossy skins without any blemishes. The freshness of your peppers is crucial as it impacts both the flavor and the spice level. For a milder version, opt for jalapenos that are lighter in color. Once you cut the peppers, wear gloves to avoid touching the seeds and membranes, which contain most of the heat. After they are halved, using a spoon is an effective way to scoop out the seeds and inner membrane without damaging the pepper shell.

If you find the jalapenos too spicy, consider soaking them in a vinegar solution for about 30 minutes prior to preparation. This not only helps to mellow their heat, but also enhances their flavor. Just mix equal parts water and vinegar, and adjust the soaking time based on your preference for spice. This step can be a game-changer if you want to accommodate guests who might be sensitive to heat, ensuring everyone can enjoy these delightful poppers.

Crafting the Cheese Filling

The key to a smooth and creamy cheese filling lies in the temperature of your cream cheese. Make sure it's softened to room temperature before mixing, as this will ensure it incorporates well with the shredded cheese and spices. A good mix can be achieved by using a hand mixer for about 1-2 minutes, resulting in a creamy and homogenous mixture that will fill the jalapenos beautifully. Taste the filling before stuffing to adjust seasoning for personal preference, adding more garlic or onion powder if desired.

Shredded cheddar cheese provides a flavor profile that complements the spices and jalapenos perfectly. For more depth, try mixing in smoked cheddar or pepper jack cheese to elevate the taste. Alternatively, if you're aiming for a lower-fat option, you can substitute half of the cream cheese with Greek yogurt. However, this may alter the final texture slightly, so adjust seasonings to find the right balance.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create the perfect jalapeno poppers.

For the Poppers

12 large jalapenos
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Panko Coating

1 cup panko breadcrumbs
1/2 tsp paprika
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
1 egg, beaten

Make sure all the ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious jalapeno poppers.

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut each jalapeno in half lengthwise and remove the seeds with the help of a spoon. Set them aside.

Make the Filling

In a medium bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.

Stuff the Jalapenos

Fill each jalapeno half generously with the cheese mixture, making sure it is heaped slightly.

Prepare the Panko Coating

In another bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, paprika, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Dip each stuffed jalapeno in the beaten egg, then coat with the panko mixture.

Bake the Poppers

Place the coated jalapenos on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.

Serve and Enjoy

Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. These poppers are great on their own or with your favorite dipping sauce!

Enjoy your crispy and spicy jalapeno poppers!

Pro Tips

For an added twist, consider using a mix of cheeses or adding cooked bacon bits into the cheese filling for extra flavor.

Serving Suggestions

These Jalapeno Poppers are versatile and can be complemented with a dipping sauce for extra flavor. Popular choices include ranch dressing, spicy aioli, or homemade salsa. Experiment with different sauces to cater to different tastes, or even serve them alongside a cheese fondue for a fun twist. The crunchy panko coating pairs beautifully with the creamy filling, making each bite a delightful experience.

For an elevated presentation, consider garnishing the baked poppers with fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions. This not only adds freshness but also a pop of color to your serving platter. Also, if you have extra filling, use it to stuff mushrooms or endive leaves for additional bites that can be served alongside the poppers!

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To ensure they maintain their crispness, reheat them in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, until warmed through and the panko crust is back to its crunchy state. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the panko wet and chewy.

For make-ahead convenience, prepare the stuffed jalapenos and freeze them before they are baked. Lay them flat in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag once frozen. When ready to serve, bake directly from frozen, increasing the baking time to approximately 30-35 minutes until the poppers are golden brown and the cheese inside is bubbling.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these jalapeno poppers ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare and stuff the jalapenos a day in advance. Just cover them and refrigerate until you're ready to bake.

→ What can I use instead of cream cheese?

You can substitute Neufchâtel cheese for a lighter option or even use goat cheese for a tangy flavor.

→ How spicy are these poppers?

The heat level depends on the jalapenos you use. Removing the seeds and membranes can also reduce the spice.

→ Can I freeze leftover jalapeno poppers?

Yes! Freeze the baked poppers in an airtight container. Reheat from frozen in the oven when you're ready to enjoy again.