Jalapeno Poppers Recipe

Name: Jalapeno Poppers Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 poppers
Ingredients: 12 fresh jalapenos; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Bacon slices (optional, for wrapping)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Spicy, cheesy, and utterly delicious, these Jalapeno Poppers are the perfect appetizer for any occasion.

Created by

Katherine Blake

Last updated on 2025-12-31T16:49:09.919Z

Jalapeno Poppers are a staple at parties and gatherings. The combination of spicy jalapenos stuffed with creamy cheese and wrapped in crispy bacon makes them irresistible. Whether you're serving them as a starter or enjoying them as a snack, these poppers will be the star of the show.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Perfect balance of heat and creamy goodness
Easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser
Versatile for parties, game days, or family gatherings

      

The Perfect Appetizer

Jalapeno poppers are not just an appetizer; they're an experience. The combination of spicy jalapenos and creamy cheese creates a flavor explosion that tantalizes your taste buds. Perfect for gatherings, game days, or casual family dinners, these poppers are always a hit. Their bite-sized nature makes them easy to share, and they pair wonderfully with various dips, from ranch to salsa. Whether you're hosting a party or just looking for a tasty snack, jalapeno poppers will not disappoint.

What makes jalapeno poppers so appealing is their versatility. You can adjust the heat level by choosing milder or spicier jalapenos, making them suitable for everyone, from those who enjoy a gentle kick to those who crave intense heat. Plus, the addition of ingredients like bacon and various cheeses allows you to customize the flavor profile. Your guests will love the creativity you put into these delightful snacks!

A Simple and Fun Recipe

This jalapeno poppers recipe is as straightforward as it gets. With only a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a batch in no time. The process is not only easy but also enjoyable, making it a fun activity to do with friends or family. Kids will love helping to stuff the jalapenos, and the end result is something everyone can enjoy together.

Baking rather than frying these poppers means you get all the flavor without the added grease. Plus, you can easily prepare them ahead of time and pop them in the oven right before your guests arrive. This makes them an ideal choice for those who want to enjoy the party rather than spend the whole time in the kitchen.

Ingredients

Jalapeno Poppers Ingredients

12 fresh jalapenos
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Bacon slices (optional, for wrapping)

Make sure to wear gloves when handling jalapenos to avoid irritation.

Instructions

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes for less heat.

Make the Filling

In a bowl, mix the cream cheese, cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Stuff the Jalapenos

Fill each jalapeno half with the cheese mixture, ensuring they are well packed.

Wrap with Bacon

If desired, wrap each stuffed jalapeno with a slice of bacon, securing it with a toothpick.

Bake

Arrange the poppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and the cheese is bubbly.

Serve

Let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your delicious jalapeno poppers!

Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.

Tips for the Best Jalapeno Poppers

To ensure your jalapeno poppers turn out perfectly, choose jalapenos that are firm and bright green. This guarantees freshness and better flavor. If you're concerned about the heat, consider soaking the jalapenos in water for about 30 minutes before preparing them. This can help reduce their spiciness.

Another tip is to experiment with the filling. While cream cheese and cheddar are classic choices, feel free to incorporate other ingredients like pepper jack cheese for an extra kick or even some chopped herbs for added freshness. The possibilities are endless, and your taste buds will thank you for it!

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving jalapeno poppers, presentation matters! Arrange them on a beautiful platter and accompany them with a selection of dips, such as guacamole, sour cream, or a zesty cilantro-lime sauce. This not only enhances the flavor experience but also makes your appetizer table visually appealing.

For a complete meal, pair jalapeno poppers with a refreshing salad or some grilled veggies. They also make an excellent side dish for burgers or tacos, adding a delightful spicy crunch to your meal. Your guests will appreciate the variety and flavor that jalapeno poppers bring to the table!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these jalapeno poppers ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare them a day in advance and store them in the fridge before baking.

→ What can I use instead of bacon?

You can use turkey bacon or omit the bacon altogether for a vegetarian option.

→ Are jalapeno poppers spicy?

The spice level depends on the jalapenos used. Removing the seeds and membranes will reduce the heat.

→ Can I freeze jalapeno poppers?

Yes, you can freeze them before baking. Just bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.