Jalapeno Poppers with Panko Crust

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Panko Crust
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 poppers
Ingredients: 12 fresh jalapeno peppers; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup panko breadcrumbs; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp paprika; Salt and pepper, to taste; Olive oil spray

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

I love making Jalapeno Poppers with Panko Crust for a quick and satisfying snack. The blend of creamy cheese and spicy jalapenos, coated in a crunchy panko crust, offers the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether served at a party or enjoyed during a cozy night in, these poppers never fail to impress. I’ve found that using a mix of cream cheese and shredded cheese helps melt beautifully while keeping everything inside nice and creamy. It's a crowd favorite I can always count on!

Created by

Katherine Blake

Last updated on 2026-01-10T12:43:18.594Z

When I first made Jalapeno Poppers with Panko Crust, I was blown away by how straightforward yet delicious they were. My secret tip is to completely deseed the jalapenos for a milder taste, especially if you want to cater to guests who may not enjoy too much heat. The balance of creamy filling with a crispy outer layer is just perfection.

For the panko crust, I always add a pinch of garlic powder and paprika for extra flavor. This simple flavor enhancement brings out the richness of the cheese and elevates the dish from ordinary to extraordinary.

        Why You'll Love These Jalapeno Poppers
        A crunchy panko crust adds delightful texture.
Perfect blend of spicy and creamy flavors.
Great appetizer for any gathering, guaranteed to steal the show.

      

Key Techniques for Perfect Poppers

To achieve the best texture for your Jalapeno Poppers, it's important to ensure the jalapenos are sliced evenly and the seeds are removed thoroughly. This not only reduces the heat but also allows the filling to enhance the overall experience. Pay attention to the size of your jalapenos; larger peppers may require slightly more filling, while smaller ones will need less. Make sure your jalapenos have a vibrant green color and are firm to the touch for optimal freshness.

Mixing the cheeses is another key technique. I recommend using a stand mixer for a smooth, creamy texture, especially with the cream cheese. The goal is to create a filling that is thick yet spreadable. Ensure everything is at room temperature to avoid clumps. Once mixed, consider letting it sit for a couple of minutes to firm up; this will make stuffing the jalapenos cleaner and easier.

Making It Your Own

Feel free to customize the filling by adding cooked and crumbled bacon or chopped green onions for an added layer of flavor. This creates a delightful twist and enhances the savory elements of the poppers. Additionally, swapping out the cheddar for pepper jack cheese can elevate the spice level, providing an extra kick for those who enjoy more heat.

If you need a gluten-free option, you can substitute regular panko with gluten-free panko breadcrumbs. They will still provide the same delicious crunch when baked. Just remember to check the packaging to ensure all ingredients meet your dietary requirements.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients:

For the Jalapeno Poppers

12 fresh jalapeno peppers
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
Olive oil spray

These ingredients will create a flavorful and satisfying snack.

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your poppers:

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Slice the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes.

Make the Filling

In a bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended.

Stuff the Jalapenos

Fill each half of the jalapeno with the cheese mixture, packing it in well.

Coat with Panko

In a shallow dish, spread the panko breadcrumbs. Dip the filled jalapenos into the breadcrumbs, making sure to coat them thoroughly.

Bake the Poppers

Place the coated jalapeno poppers on the prepared baking sheet and lightly spray them with olive oil. Bake for 20 minutes until golden and crispy.

Enjoy your hot Jalapeno Poppers fresh from the oven!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, try adding some diced cooked bacon to the cheese mixture.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the crispiness of the panko crust, reheat them in an oven at 350°F (175°C) instead of a microwave. Bake for about 10 minutes, checking periodically until they are warmed through and the crust has regained its crunchiness.

For longer storage, you can freeze the uncooked stuffed jalapenos. Simply prepare them up to the baking step, then arrange them on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to cook, there's no need to thaw; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Serving Suggestions

These Jalapeno Poppers are versatile in serving. They pair beautifully with a variety of dips, such as ranch or avocado crema. A squeeze of lime or a drizzle of hot sauce can also enhance the flavor. I like to serve them alongside a fresh salad for a light meal or as part of a larger spread during gatherings.

For a fun variation, consider placing your poppers on skewers with other grill-friendly ingredients like bell peppers or shrimp for a colorful appetizer platter. This not only adds variety but also elevates your presentation, making it a visually appealing option for any occasion.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these poppers ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the jalapenos and filling ahead of time, then bake them when you're ready to serve.

→ What can I substitute for panko breadcrumbs?

You can use regular breadcrumbs, but panko gives a lighter and crunchier texture.

→ How spicy are these jalapeno poppers?

The spice level can be controlled by how many seeds and membranes you remove; more removal results in a milder flavor.

→ Is there a vegetarian option for the filling?

You can swap out the cheddar for a vegan cheese alternative to make it vegetarian.