Jalapeno Poppers with Cheddar Filling
Highlighted under: Favorite Baking Favorites
I love making Jalapeno Poppers with Cheddar Filling when I'm looking for a fun and spicy appetizer that really packs a flavor punch. This recipe combines the creamy richness of cheddar cheese with the heat of fresh jalapenos, making for a delightful combination that's perfect for parties or a cozy night in. Baking them gives a crispy texture without the added oil from frying, which I appreciate. Trust me, these poppers will be a hit with everyone who tries them!
When I first tried Jalapeno Poppers with Cheddar Filling at a friend's gathering, I was mesmerized by the balance of spice and creamy goodness. I decided to replicate that experience at home, focusing on how to amplify the cheese flavor while keeping the heat just right. I found that using a mixture of sharp cheddar and cream cheese produced an irresistible filling that complements the jalapeno perfectly.
During my recipe tests, I discovered that baking instead of frying kept the poppers crispy while still allowing the cheese to melt beautifully. I also recommend using fresh jalapenos, as their flavor is much more vibrant. The result? A deliciously cheesy and spicy snack that no one can resist!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Creamy cheddar filling that balances perfectly with spicy jalapenos
- Easy to make and perfect for parties or game day
- Baked for a healthier twist on a classic favorite
Creating the Perfect Filling
The key to achieving a delicious filling for your jalapeno poppers is to ensure a smooth and creamy texture. Combining sharp cheddar cheese with softened cream cheese not only enhances the flavor but also creates that perfect consistency that holds up well when baked. It's important to let the cream cheese soften at room temperature to make mixing easier. For an extra flavor kick, consider adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika or diced roasted red peppers into the filling for an additional depth.
Balancing flavors is crucial. While the cheddar provides a robust and tangy flavor, the cream cheese helps mellow the heat from the jalapenos. Adjusting the amount of garlic powder to suit your taste can also make a difference. I often find half a teaspoon is perfect if you’re looking to maintain a subtle garlic essence, but feel free to increase it if you're a garlic lover!
Mastering the Baking Technique
Baking jalapeno poppers instead of frying them not only cuts down on unhealthy oils but enhances the overall texture. To ensure the tops of your poppers achieve that golden, crispy crust, consider broiling them for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. Keep a close eye during this time—broilers can quickly turn from golden to burnt! The visual cue to watch for is when the breadcrumbs start to turn a rich golden brown.
If you want to make your poppers look extra appealing, you can brush a light layer of olive oil on the breadcrumb topping before baking. This step not only enhances browning but also adds a richer flavor. To ensure even cooking, make sure the jalapeno halves are placed cut-side up, allowing heat to circulate and cook the filling evenly without burning the edges.
Ingredients
Jalapeno Poppers
- 12 large jalapenos
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
Modify the amounts according to your preference for heat and flavor!
Preparation Steps
Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Prepare the Jalapenos
Slice the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes to reduce heat.
Make the Filling
In a bowl, combine grated cheddar, cream cheese, green onions, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended.
Fill the Jalapenos
Using a spoon, fill each jalapeno half with the cheese mixture and press down to pack it in.
Coat with Breadcrumbs
Sprinkle breadcrumbs on each filled jalapeno for a crispy topping.
Bake
Place the stuffed jalapenos on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes, or until golden and bubbly.
Let cool for a few minutes before serving for the best taste experience.
Pro Tips
- For extra flavor, try adding cooked bacon bits to the cheese filling.
Ingredient Substitutions and Variations
If you're looking to customize your jalapeno poppers, consider experimenting with different cheese varieties. Pepper jack cheese can be a fantastic substitute for cheddar, bringing an extra layer of heat. Alternatively, you can create a more subdued flavor by using mozzarella, or for a creamy twist, try adding goat cheese to the mixture.
For those with dietary restrictions, this recipe is easily adaptable to vegan diets. Use plant-based cream cheese and a dairy-free cheese alternative. Just keep in mind that the melting properties may vary, so selecting a brand that melts well will provide the best results.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Jalapeno poppers can be made ahead of time and even frozen. To freeze, prepare the poppers up to the baking step, then flash freeze them on a baking tray before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, simply bake from frozen—just add an additional 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
For leftover poppers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To reheat, a quick blast in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes will restore their crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the poppers soggy and detracts from that desirable crunch.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen jalapenos?
It's best to use fresh jalapenos for the best flavor and texture, but frozen jalapenos can be used if thawed and drained.
→ How can I make them spicier?
Keep some seeds in the jalapenos or add a dash of hot sauce to the cheese filling to amp up the heat.
→ What can I serve with jalapeno poppers?
They pair well with ranch dressing, guacamole, or salsa for dipping.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days; reheat in the oven for the best results.
Jalapeno Poppers with Cheddar Filling
I love making Jalapeno Poppers with Cheddar Filling when I'm looking for a fun and spicy appetizer that really packs a flavor punch. This recipe combines the creamy richness of cheddar cheese with the heat of fresh jalapenos, making for a delightful combination that's perfect for parties or a cozy night in. Baking them gives a crispy texture without the added oil from frying, which I appreciate. Trust me, these poppers will be a hit with everyone who tries them!
Created by: Isobel Fairfax
Recipe Type: Favorite Baking Favorites
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 12 servings
What You'll Need
Jalapeno Poppers
- 12 large jalapenos
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Slice the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes to reduce heat.
In a bowl, combine grated cheddar, cream cheese, green onions, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended.
Using a spoon, fill each jalapeno half with the cheese mixture and press down to pack it in.
Sprinkle breadcrumbs on each filled jalapeno for a crispy topping.
Place the stuffed jalapenos on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes, or until golden and bubbly.
Extra Tips
- For extra flavor, try adding cooked bacon bits to the cheese filling.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 290mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 12g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 10g