Jalapeno Poppers with Herbed Ricotta

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Herbed Ricotta
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12 poppers
Ingredients: 12 large jalapenos, halved and seeds removed; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped; 1 clove garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil for drizzling

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

When I first tried making Jalapeno Poppers with Herbed Ricotta, I didn’t expect to fall in love with the combination of creamy cheese and spicy jalapenos. Each bite is a delightful mix of heat and a cool, herbaceous filling that brings everything together. Over the years, I’ve refined my method to ensure the filling stays rich and velvety, and I've learned that baking the poppers brings out their natural sweetness while keeping them healthy. Perfect for parties or a cozy night in, they're always a hit!

Created by

Katherine Blake

Last updated on 2026-01-14T03:13:20.969Z

I vividly remember the first time I made these Jalapeno Poppers for a gathering. I stuffed them with a herbed ricotta mixture that I whipped up with ingredients from my garden. The combination of fresh herbs and creamy cheese was so delightful that I could hardly keep myself from snacking on the filling straight from the bowl. Baking instead of frying not only makes it healthier, but it allows the jalapenos to become tender while still keeping their signature crunch.

One of my favorite tips is to choose jalapenos based on your spice preference. If you love the heat, go for the darker, larger ones; they're usually spicier. For a milder option, pick bright green, smaller jalapenos. Don’t forget to wear gloves while handling them. Trust me, you don’t want to accidentally touch your face after slicing!

        Why You'll Love These Jalapeno Poppers
        Deliciously creamy herbed ricotta filling
Perfect balance of heat and flavor
Quick to prepare and bake for parties
Versatile: can be customized with different herbs or cheese

      

Understanding Your Ingredients

The ingredients in Jalapeno Poppers play crucial roles in developing the overall flavor and texture. Ricotta cheese, with its creamy and slightly sweet profile, forms the base of the filling, providing moisture and richness. While cream cheese adds a tangy depth, the grated Parmesan contributes a savory umami note that enhances the poppers’ overall flavor. Make sure to use quality cheeses for the best results, as the taste of the filling will be a defining aspect of your poppers.

When selecting jalapenos, look for firm and glossy peppers that are vibrant in color. Larger jalapenos tend to have more room for filling, but they can also be hotter; if you're sensitive to spice, consider tasting a small slice from the tip first. Removing the seeds and membranes significantly reduces the heat, allowing the creamy herbed filling to shine without overwhelming your palate.

Baking Technique for Perfect Poppers

Baking the jalapeno poppers provides a healthier alternative to frying while enhancing the natural sweetness of the jalapenos. When drizzling with olive oil, aim for a thin, even coating to help achieve that beautiful golden hue without making the filling too greasy. If you prefer a crispier texture, consider broiling the poppers for the last few minutes of cooking, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.

To ensure even baking, arrange the poppers cut side up on the baking sheet. This allows the heat to circulate within each pepper and around the filling, resulting in evenly cooked poppers. If you notice the filling bubbling too much, it may indicate that the oven temperature is too high; reducing it slightly can help maintain a creamy center.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Jalapeno Poppers

12 large jalapenos, halved and seeds removed
1 cup ricotta cheese
1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for drizzling

Make sure to adjust the seasoning to your taste and feel free to get creative with your herb choices!

Instructions

Preheat Oven and Prepare Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Carefully cut the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds using a knife or spoon. Ensure that you wear gloves to avoid the heat from the peppers lingering on your skin.

Make the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta, cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, parsley, chives, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning as desired.

Stuff the Peppers

Spoon the herbed cheese mixture into each jalapeno half generously. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake the Poppers

Drizzle with olive oil and bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the jalapenos are tender and the cheese is lightly golden.

Serve and Enjoy

Once baked, let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy these tasty poppers with your favorite dipping sauce!

Serve warm as an appetizer or snack. Enjoy the burst of flavors!

Pro Tips

For a variation, try adding chopped bacon or jalapeno bacon bits to the filling for extra flavor and texture.

Customization and Variations

One of the best aspects of jalapeno poppers is their versatility. You can easily customize the filling by incorporating different herbs like oregano or dill, or even adding spices such as smoked paprika or cayenne for an extra kick. For those who want to switch up the cheeses, try using goat cheese or feta for a tangy experience. Additionally, feel free to add cooked bacon or chorizo to the filling for a meaty variation that brings a whole new layer of flavor.

For a make-ahead option, you can prepare the stuffed jalapenos, then cover and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to deepen and can save time on busy days. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they go into the oven straight from the fridge.

Serving and Enjoying Your Poppers

Jalapeno poppers are delightful as an appetizer but can also serve as a fun party snack or a side dish. Pair them with cooling dips like ranch dressing, sour cream, or a creamy avocado dip to complement the heat. For an extra kick, a side of spicy salsa or a drizzle of sriracha can elevate the dish even more. Consider serving with a refreshing cocktail or beer to balance the spice.

When presenting your poppers, arrange them on a colorful platter garnished with fresh herbs for a visually appealing display. This not only enhances the tablescape but also invites guests to dig in. If you have leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore their crispy edges.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the filling ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the herbed ricotta filling up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator.

→ What if I want a milder version?

To reduce the heat, make sure to remove all the seeds and the inner membranes of the jalapenos. You can also use sweet mini peppers instead.

→ Can these be frozen?

Yes, you can freeze the stuffed jalapenos before baking. Just make sure to wrap them well and bake them straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

→ What dipping sauces pair well with these poppers?

Sour cream, ranch, or a spicy creamy sauce work very well with jalapeno poppers.