Jalapeno Poppers with Cheddar and Garlic

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Cheddar and Garlic
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 poppers
Ingredients: 12 fresh jalapenos; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 4 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping); Olive oil spray (for baking)

Highlighted under: Home Recipes

I absolutely love making Jalapeno Poppers with Cheddar and Garlic for gatherings or simply as a tasty snack at home. The combination of spicy jalapenos with creamy, cheesy goodness is hard to resist. Each bite is bursting with flavor, thanks to the garlic that elevates the dish even further. I enjoy experimenting with different cheese blends to create variations that suit my friends' and family's preferences, making these poppers a versatile treat. Whether served at a party or for a cozy movie night, they always disappear quickly!

Created by

Quincy Harper

Last updated on 2026-01-05T23:41:35.439Z

When I first attempted making Jalapeno Poppers, I was amazed at how simple yet flavorful they could be. I decided to use cheddar cheese for its strong flavor and melted texture, pairing it with freshly minced garlic, a choice that transformed the dish into something truly delightful. I learned that it’s essential to deseed the jalapenos thoroughly to manage the heat!

My first batch disappeared within minutes, which prompted me to tweak the recipe for our next family gathering. Baking them instead of frying was a game changer, keeping them lighter without sacrificing flavor. I recommend serving them with a side of creamy dipping sauce for an extra kick!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Creamy cheddar paired with zesty jalapenos creates a perfect flavor balance
A hint of garlic elevates the taste to a whole new level
These poppers are great for sharing at parties or enjoying on a quiet night in

      

Perfecting the Jalapeno Poppers

When selecting jalapenos for your poppers, look for firm, glossy peppers with a vibrant green color. The size can vary, but medium-sized jalapenos are ideal as they offer a perfect balance of spice and filling. To tame the heat, soak the halved jalapenos in cold water for 30 minutes before stuffing; this can help reduce the spiciness without sacrificing flavor.

For the cheese filling, using freshly shredded cheddar cheese instead of pre-packaged blends makes a noticeable difference in texture and melt quality. The cream cheese adds a lovely creaminess that combines beautifully with the cheddar. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider incorporating pepper jack cheese into the filling for an extra layer of flavor.

Baking to Perfection

Baking at the right temperature is crucial for achieving that perfect balance of tender jalapenos and bubbly, golden cheese. A temperature of 375°F (190°C) ensures that the jalapenos soften while the filling reaches a creamy consistency. Keep an eye on them after 15 minutes, as oven differences can cause variations in cooking time; you want the cheese to be melted and slightly golden for the best texture.

If you opt for breadcrumbs on top, a light spray of olive oil will help them achieve a crispy, golden finish. I recommend broiling them for the last 2-3 minutes of baking to get that nice crunch without overcooking the jalapenos. Just watch them closely—broiling can quickly turn from 'golden' to 'burned'!

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to start making your Jalapeno Poppers.

Ingredients

12 fresh jalapenos
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
4 cloves garlic, minced
4 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
Olive oil spray (for baking)

Make sure to have all your ingredients ready and prepped before you start!

Instructions

Follow these steps for perfect Jalapeno Poppers.

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice each jalapeno in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes using a spoon.

Make the Filling

In a bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese, cream cheese, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Mix until smooth and well combined.

Stuff the Jalapenos

Spoon the cheese mixture into each jalapeno half, filling generously.

Add Topping (Optional)

If you like a crunchy texture, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top of the stuffed jalapenos.

Bake

Place the jalapenos on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spray lightly with olive oil. Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the jalapenos are tender.

Serve

Remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce!

Enjoy your homemade Jalapeno Poppers!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding bacon bits to the cheese filling or using pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar.

Substitutions and Variations

These poppers are customizable based on your taste preferences or dietary needs. For a vegetarian option, try swapping out the cheese with a nut-based cream cheese alternative. Additionally, you can add some cooked, crumbled bacon or sausage to the filling for a meaty twist, or toss in some diced green onions for added freshness.

If you're working with a gluten-free audience, simply omit the breadcrumbs or use gluten-free panko. You can also experiment with different seasonings like taco seasoning or garlic powder in the filling for a unique spin.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

You can prepare these jalapeno poppers in advance, which is a lifesaver for busy gatherings! Stuff the jalapenos as instructed, but instead of baking them immediately, cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the baking time since they will start off cold.

Leftover poppers can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To reheat them, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. For the best texture, skip the microwave, which can make them rubbery.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare these poppers in advance?

Yes! You can stuff the jalapenos ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. Bake them just before serving.

→ Are these poppers spicy?

They have a mild to moderate heat level, depending on how many seeds you remove. For a milder version, make sure to deseed thoroughly.

→ Can I freeze Jalapeno Poppers?

Absolutely! Freeze them before baking, and when ready to eat, bake directly from the freezer, just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

→ What dipping sauces pair well with Jalapeno Poppers?

Creamy ranch, sour cream, or a spicy aioli dip are all excellent choices to complement the flavors of the poppers.