Jalapeno Poppers with Smoky Cream Cheese

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Smoky Cream Cheese
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 16 poppers
Ingredients: 8 large jalapenos, halved and seeded; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/4 tsp onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Bacon bits (optional, for topping)

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love making Jalapeno Poppers with Smoky Cream Cheese for gatherings and parties. The combination of spicy jalapenos with creamy, smoky cheese creates a perfect balance that keeps everyone coming back for more. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, these poppers are sure to impress your friends and family. Plus, they are incredibly versatile; I often switch up the cheese or add extra spices to suit my taste. They're always a hit, whether as an appetizer or a snack at game night!

Created by

Katherine Blake

Last updated on 2026-01-14T03:13:23.135Z

When I first tried making Jalapeno Poppers, I was amazed by how simple yet flavorful they could be. I experimented with different cream cheese mixtures, but adding smoked paprika and garlic powder truly elevated the dish. The smoky flavor pairs wonderfully with the spicy heat from the jalapenos, making each bite memorable.

One of my favorite tips is to choose jalapenos that are firm and vibrant in color, which ensures that they maintain their structure while baking. Additionally, make sure to use a spoon to scoop out the seeds thoroughly if you prefer less heat. This way, I achieve the perfect flavor balance that everyone loves!

        Why You'll Love These Poppers
        Deliciously smoky and creamy filling
Perfect balance of heat and flavor
Easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser

      

Essential Techniques for Perfect Poppers

When preparing your jalapenos, careful handling is crucial. Always wear gloves when seeding the peppers to avoid any irritation from the oils. Halving them lengthwise and removing the seeds not only lessens the heat but also creates a perfect cavity for the stuffing. If you're looking for a bit more spice, you can leave some of the ribs intact, but be cautious to ensure that the final balance of heat works for your group.

Mixing the filling thoroughly until it's completely smooth ensures an even distribution of flavors in each popper. I recommend using room temperature cream cheese for easier blending. You could use a stand mixer or hand mixer to achieve a glossy filling that’s easy to work with. If you like a bit of crunch, consider adding chopped green onions or diced bell peppers to the cheese mixture for extra texture.

Ingredient Substitutions and Additions

If you're looking to switch things up, there are plenty of cheese options that can be used as substitutes for cheddar. Creamy goat cheese or tangy blue cheese both offer unique flavors that pair well with the spice of jalapenos. For a dairy-free alternative, try using a vegan cream cheese that has a similar texture. Just ensure it's well-seasoned to match the flavors in the original recipe.

Adding spices can elevate your Jalapeno Poppers. I sometimes incorporate cumin or chili powder for an extra kick. For an herbaceous note, fresh cilantro or chives could be folded into the filling. Take care to adjust the seasoning after adding additional ingredients to maintain the right flavor balance. Browning the bacon bits on the stove before topping the poppers can also boost the flavor greatly.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start preparing your Jalapeno Poppers:

Ingredients

8 large jalapenos, halved and seeded
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Bacon bits (optional, for topping)

Make sure to have all your ingredients ready for a smoother cooking process!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious Jalapeno Poppers:

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Carefully halve the jalapenos lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes using a spoon. This helps reduce the heat level.

Make the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until smooth and creamy.

Stuff the Jalapenos

Spoon the cream cheese mixture into each jalapeno half, filling them generously. If you like, sprinkle some bacon bits on top for extra flavor.

Bake

Place the stuffed jalapenos on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and the jalapenos are tender.

Serve

Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your delicious Jalapeno Poppers warm!

Cook carefully to avoid burning yourself. Serve warm for the best experience!

Pro Tips

For extra crunch and flavor, consider wrapping the poppers in bacon before baking. You can also adjust the spice level by using milder or spicier jalapenos depending on your preference.

Making Ahead and Storage Tips

These Jalapeno Poppers can be prepared a day in advance, making them a perfect party option. Just stuff the jalapeno halves, cover them tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate until you're ready to bake. This allows the flavors to meld and can enhance the overall taste. When ready to bake, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if they go into the oven straight from the fridge.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They reheat beautifully in an oven or toaster oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, ensuring they remain crispy on the outside. However, avoid the microwave as it can make them soggy. You can also freeze these poppers before baking. Just place them on a baking sheet first to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag once solid, baking from frozen when needed.

Serving Variations

Jalapeno Poppers can be served on their own as a fantastic finger food or paired with a dipping sauce. A tangy ranch or creamy avocado dip complements their smokiness. Alternatively, consider a spicy sriracha mayo for those who enjoy a bit more heat. These pair wonderfully with a refreshing side salad or crunchy vegetable platter to balance out the rich flavors.

For a fun twist, you can create a popper platter with a variety of fillings. For example, mix the cream cheese with different spices, or even include some finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes or olives to the mix. This not only adds more flavor but also presents a colorful array for your guests, making your gathering feel even more special.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these poppers ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the jalapenos with their filling and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

→ What kind of cheese can I use?

While cheddar is a classic choice, you can experiment with cream cheese mixed with other cheeses like pepper jack for extra spice or mozzarella for a milder flavor.

→ How can I make these vegan?

You can substitute the cream cheese and cheddar with vegan alternatives available in stores. Just make sure the other ingredients are also vegan-friendly!

→ What can I serve these poppers with?

Jalapeno poppers go great with a variety of dips like ranch, sour cream, or even homemade salsa for a refreshing contrast.