Jalapeno Poppers with Cheddar Herb Filling

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Cheddar Herb Filling
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 15 poppers
Ingredients: 15 large jalapenos; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 2 tbsp fresh chives, chopped; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Highlighted under: Busy Meals

I absolutely love making Jalapeno Poppers with Cheddar Herb Filling for gatherings! The combination of spicy jalapenos and creamy, cheesy filling creates an irresistible appetizer that never fails to impress my friends and family. With a hint of fresh herbs and a crispy exterior, these poppers always disappear quickly from the plate! Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to whip up, and I often find myself doubling the recipe to ensure there are some left for me to enjoy later.

Created by

Honor Blackwell

Last updated on 2026-01-14T07:02:35.195Z

When I first attempted these Jalapeno Poppers, I was stunned by how effortlessly they came together and how incredible they tasted. The trick is to use fresh herbs like chives and parsley, which elevate the flavor of the cheddar cheese. Once you get the filling just right, stuffing the jalapenos is really enjoyable, and you can even get creative with different herbs!

One thing I learned along the way is to choose jalapenos that are firm and a little larger, which makes stuffing them easier. It’s also helpful to wear gloves when handling them to avoid irritation on your skin. These poppers are a guaranteed hit, especially when served with a tangy dipping sauce!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Spicy kick perfectly balanced with creamy cheese filling
Herbs add a fresh note that brightens every bite
Perfect finger food for parties or casual get-togethers

      

Essential Techniques for Perfect Poppers

When preparing your jalapenos, it's crucial to wear gloves to avoid irritation from the pepper's oils. Depending on your heat preference, you can adjust the spiciness by either leaving a few seeds in or fully removing them. If you want a milder pepper, opt for larger jalapenos, as they tend to have a sweeter flavor and less heat than smaller varieties.

When mixing the cheese filling, be sure the cream cheese is at room temperature for the best consistency. This ensures it blends smoothly with the cheddar and herbs, resulting in a filling that is creamy and easy to spread. You can also use a hand mixer to whip the filling until it becomes fluffy, which helps in making each bite extra airy.

Baking and Serving Tips

For perfectly crispy jalapeno poppers, avoid overcrowding the baking sheet. Leave enough space between each popper to allow hot air to circulate. This will help achieve that golden, crunchy exterior. If you find some poppers are not browning evenly, you can rotate the baking sheet halfway through baking to promote even cooking.

Once they are finished baking, let the poppers cool for a few minutes before serving; this will help the cheese set slightly and make them easier to handle. Consider serving them with a side of ranch or sour cream dip to balance out their spiciness. For a twist, try a drizzle of balsamic glaze over them to enhance the flavors.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Jalapeno Poppers:

Ingredients

15 large jalapenos
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 tbsp fresh chives, chopped
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup breadcrumbs
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Make sure to prep your ingredients before you start stuffing!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your tasty Jalapeno Poppers:

Prepare the Jalapenos

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

Make the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, cheddar cheese, chives, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Stuff the Jalapenos

Using a spoon, generously fill each jalapeno half with the cheese mixture.

Coat and Bake

Dip the stuffed jalapeno halves into the beaten egg, then coat them with breadcrumbs. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20 minutes, or until golden and crispy.

Let them cool for a few minutes before serving!

Pro Tips

You can customize the filling with different cheeses or even add cooked bacon for an extra flavor boost.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

If you're looking to make these poppers a bit healthier, consider using Greek yogurt in place of cream cheese for the filling. It will add a tangy flavor while cutting down on calories. Additionally, you can substitute the cheddar cheese with pepper jack for an extra kick or goat cheese for a unique flavor profile.

For dietary restrictions, vegan cream cheese and shredded cheese substitutes have come a long way in taste and texture. You can easily adapt the recipe by using these vegan alternatives without compromising too much on flavor. Moreover, adding finely diced vegetables like bell peppers or corn to the filling can enhance nutrition and taste.

Make-Ahead and Storage

These jalapeno poppers can be prepared ahead of time, making them a fantastic option for gatherings. You can stuff the jalapenos and coat them with breadcrumbs, then cover them tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to meld, enhancing the overall taste.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can also freeze the unbaked poppers; simply place them on a baking tray until frozen, then transfer them to a zip-top bag. When ready to enjoy, bake directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these poppers ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the poppers, then refrigerate them for up to a day before baking.

→ How spicy are these Jalapeno Poppers?

The spice level can vary based on the jalapenos. Removing the seeds and membranes will reduce the heat significantly.

→ Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack.

→ What can I serve with these poppers?

These poppers are great with ranch dressing, salsa, or a creamy dipping sauce.