Jalapeno Poppers with Pepper Jack

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Pepper Jack
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12 poppers
Ingredients: 12 large jalapenos; 8 oz Pepper Jack cheese, softened; 4 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Cooking spray

Highlighted under: Family Comfort Food Recipes

I absolutely love making Jalapeno Poppers with Pepper Jack because they're not only a delicious appetizer but also a fun cooking project. The combination of spicy jalapenos and creamy, melty cheese makes for an irresistible snack that my family can't get enough of. I enjoy experimenting with different spices and fillings to find the perfect balance of heat and flavor. Trust me, once you try these poppers, you’ll want to serve them at every gathering!

Created by

Harriet Bloom

Last updated on 2026-01-13T01:09:40.856Z

When I first made Jalapeno Poppers, I was surprised by how well the heat of the jalapenos paired with the creamy texture of Pepper Jack cheese. It’s a match made in heaven! I found that baking the poppers allowed them to crisp up nicely while keeping the filling perfectly gooey. Adding a sprinkle of garlic powder and smoked paprika elevated the flavors even more, making them a crowd favorite at my last game day gathering.

One key tip I discovered is to make sure to wear gloves when handling the jalapenos. The oils can be quite potent, and you don’t want any accidental burn while prepping. I also like to serve them with a cool dip made of sour cream and lime juice for a refreshing contrast. These poppers will definitely be a hit!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Spicy kick balanced perfectly with creamy Pepper Jack cheese
Baked for a healthier, crispy texture without deep-frying
Perfect for game days, parties, or just a fun snack

      

Choosing the Right Jalapenos

Selecting the right jalapenos is crucial for achieving the desired heat level in your poppers. Look for firm, shiny peppers that are bright green. Generally, smaller jalapenos tend to be spicier, while larger ones can be milder. If you prefer a little more heat, consider leaving some seeds in or using a mix of jalapenos and serrano peppers for an extra kick.

When prepping the jalapenos, wear gloves to avoid skin irritation from the oils. It’s a good idea to rinse the peppers under cold water after slicing to remove any remaining seeds or membranes. This step will help control the spice level, making the poppers more enjoyable for everyone at your gathering.

Cheese Filling Techniques

The blend of Pepper Jack and cream cheese is essential for achieving the perfect creamy texture in your poppers. The Pepper Jack adds a nice kick, while the cream cheese provides a rich base. To make the filling more flavorful, try adding in extras like diced green onions or crumbled bacon for a savory twist.

Mix the cheese filling until completely smooth; this will help in ensuring even distribution of flavors. If the mixture feels too stiff, consider adding a splash of milk or a bit more softened cream cheese to achieve a more spreadable consistency. It is also important to pack the filling firmly into the jalapenos to prevent it from bubbling over while baking.

Baking for the Perfect Texture

Baking the jalapeno poppers instead of frying them not only makes them healthier but also allows for a wonderfully crispy exterior. When baking, ensure that the poppers are arranged with enough space on the baking sheet to allow even air circulation; this will contribute to their crispy texture. A good visual cue is when the breadcrumbs turn golden brown.

For an added boost of crunch, broil the jalapeno poppers for the last couple of minutes of baking. Keep a close eye during this time to avoid burning. Once removed from the oven, allow them to cool slightly—this helps the cheese set a bit and makes it easier to manage when serving.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to get started on your Jalapeno Poppers:

Ingredients for Jalapeno Poppers

12 large jalapenos
8 oz Pepper Jack cheese, softened
4 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking spray

With all your ingredients ready, it’s time to dive into the cooking process!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your delicious Jalapeno Poppers:

Preheat the Oven

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

Prep the Jalapenos

Wear gloves for this step! Slice the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes to reduce heat.

Make the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened Pepper Jack cheese, cream cheese, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.

Stuff the Jalapenos

Use a spoon to fill each jalapeno half with the cheese mixture, packing it in well.

Coat with Breadcrumbs

Sprinkle the breadcrumbs over the filled jalapenos and lightly spray with cooking spray for a crispy finish.

Bake

Arrange the poppers on the baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until golden and bubbly.

Once baked, let them cool slightly before serving to get the best texture.

Pro Tips

Serve with a side of sour cream mixed with lime juice to add a refreshing touch. You can also experiment with different cheeses or add cooked bacon for extra flavor!

Make-Ahead Tips

Jalapeno poppers can be prepared ahead of time, making them a perfect choice for parties. You can stuff and arrange the jalapenos on a baking sheet, cover them with plastic wrap, and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. This not only saves time on the day of your event but also allows the flavors to meld together for a more delicious bite.

If you want to prepare them even further in advance, you can freeze stuffed jalapenos. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to bake, cook them directly from frozen, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time for optimal results.

Serving Suggestions

These jalapeno poppers are incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. Pair them with cooling dips like ranch or sour cream, which can help balance the heat. You can also serve them with a side of spicy salsa for an extra flavor punch that complements the creamy filling nicely.

For a fun twist, try wrapping the jalapenos in bacon before baking. This will not only add a smoky flavor but also a fantastic crunch. Just be sure to account for the additional cooking time required for the bacon to become crisp, potentially increasing the bake time to around 25-30 minutes.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find that your jalapeno poppers are too spicy, you can reduce the heat next time by using fewer seeds or swapping for milder peppers. Alternatively, you can add more cream cheese to balance the spice, making the filling a bit creamier and less intense.

In case the breadcrumbs don’t achieve the desired crispiness, ensure that you’re using fresh breadcrumbs and that you’ve adequately sprayed them with cooking spray. If they're still lacking crunch after baking, a brief broil can help achieve that perfect golden texture everybody loves.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these Jalapeno Poppers ahead of time?

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

→ How spicy are these poppers?

The spiciness depends on the jalapenos. Removing the seeds and membranes reduces the heat significantly.

→ Can I use other types of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with cheeses like cheddar, fontina, or even blue cheese for a unique flavor.

→ What should I serve with Jalapeno Poppers?

They pair wonderfully with dipping sauces like ranch, sour cream, or guacamole.