Jalapeno Poppers with Herb Cream Cheese

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Herb Cream Cheese
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 12 jalapenos, halved and seeded; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 2 tbsp fresh chives, chopped; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1 cup breadcrumbs; Olive oil spray

Highlighted under: Fusion Ideas

When I think of the perfect appetizer, jalapeno poppers come to mind. There's something about the combination of spicy jalapenos and creamy herb-infused cream cheese that always gets me excited. I love how easy they are to prepare, yet they feel so gourmet when you serve them at parties or game days. Whether you make them mild or go all-in with the heat, these poppers are guaranteed to bring a smile to your guests' faces.

Created by

Frederica Houghton

Last updated on 2026-01-13T02:03:35.270Z

Last weekend, I decided to try making jalapeno poppers for a get-together with friends. I had seen many recipes, but I wanted to put my twist on the classic. Mixing cream cheese with fresh herbs like chives and parsley added a refreshing flavor that complemented the jalapenos beautifully. Baking them instead of frying ensured they stayed flavorful without the grease.

As they baked, my kitchen filled with a delightful aroma. Once golden and bubbly, I plated them with a side of homemade ranch for dipping. Watching my friends devour them was the best part; they instantly became the star of the evening!

        Why You'll Love These Jalapeno Poppers
        Spicy kick that awakens your taste buds
Creamy and flavorful herb cream cheese filling
Easy to make and perfect for entertaining

      

Choosing the Right Jalapenos

When selecting jalapenos for your poppers, look for those that are firm and shiny, with a vibrant green color. The size of the jalapenos can vary, but medium-sized ones are generally the best choice as they provide a good balance of heat and stuffing capacity. If you prefer milder flavors, opt for jalapenos that are slightly larger and have thinner skin, as these tend to be less spicy.

To enhance the flavor, you can also consider roasting the jalapenos before stuffing them. Just char them under a broiler for about 6-8 minutes until the skin blisters, then let them cool before peeling off the skin. This added step introduces a smoky note that complements the cream cheese filling beautifully.

Elevating Your Cream Cheese Filling

The herb cream cheese filling is the heart of the jalapeno poppers, so it's important to have a balance of flavors. While the chives and parsley add a freshness, consider experimenting with other herbs such as dill or cilantro if you want to change things up. Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper can also improve the heat, making them more adventurous for bold palates.

If you want a hint of sweetness to offset the heat, consider mixing in a tablespoon of honey or a teaspoon of brown sugar into the filling. This small adjustment can create a delightful contrast and enhance the overall taste profile of the poppers. Just ensure that your cream cheese is adequately softened for easier mixing and spreading.

Serving Suggestions and Storage Tips

These jalapeno poppers can be served immediately after baking, but if you're making them ahead of time, they can be prepared and assembled prior to cooking. Simply store the stuffed jalapenos in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to meld and can actually enhance the taste when cooked fresh.

If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheating them in the air fryer or oven for about 10 minutes at 350°F (175°C) will keep the poppers crispy and enjoyable. You can also freeze the assembled poppers before baking; just ensure they are tightly wrapped. When you're ready to enjoy them, bake directly from frozen, adjusting the time to around 20-25 minutes.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to start making these delicious jalapeno poppers:

Ingredients for Jalapeno Poppers

12 jalapenos, halved and seeded
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 tbsp fresh chives, chopped
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 cup breadcrumbs
Olive oil spray

Make sure to adjust the spices to your preference for a milder or spicier version!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your jalapeno poppers:

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Halve the jalapenos lengthwise and remove the seeds carefully. Set aside.

Make the Cream Cheese Filling

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

Stuff the Jalapenos

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

Coat and Bake

Dip the stuffed jalapenos in breadcrumbs until well coated. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and spray lightly with olive oil. Bake for about 15 minutes or until golden brown.

Let the poppers cool slightly before serving, as the filling will be hot!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, you can add cooked and crumbled bacon to the cream cheese filling!

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find that your cream cheese filling is too stiff to scoop, it's likely that it hasn't been softened enough. Make sure to leave it at room temperature for at least an hour before mixing. If you're in a hurry, you can also microwave it in short bursts of 10-15 seconds, just until it softens without melting.

Overcooked jalapeno poppers can become soggy and lose their flavor. Always keep an eye on them while they bake. Look for a golden-brown crust on the breadcrumbs as your visual cue. If the breadcrumbs start to darken too quickly, cover the poppers lightly with aluminum foil to slow down the browning process.

Variations to Try

For a twist, consider adding crispy bacon bits to your cream cheese filling. This not only adds a salty crunch but also elevates the flavors immensely. Simply sauté the bacon until crispy, then mix it into the filling just before stuffing the jalapenos.

You could also create a spicy version by drizzling sriracha sauce over the finished poppers just before serving or mixing it into the cream cheese for an extra kick. Additionally, substituting the cheddar cheese for pepper jack can provide a delightful twist and some added heat.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these jalapeno poppers ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the poppers and assemble them a few hours in advance. Just bake them right before serving.

→ How can I make them less spicy?

To reduce the heat, make sure to remove all the seeds and membranes from the jalapenos, and consider using milder peppers.

→ Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

Absolutely! Low-fat cream cheese will work well, though the texture may be slightly different.

→ What can I serve with jalapeno poppers?

They pair well with ranch dressing, sour cream, or a zesty salsa for dipping.