Jalapeno Poppers with Pepper Jack

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Pepper Jack
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 10-12 poppers
Ingredients: 12 fresh jalapenos; 8 oz Pepper Jack cheese, softened; 4 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil spray

Highlighted under: Traditional Comfort Food Ideas

I absolutely love making Jalapeno Poppers with Pepper Jack for gatherings and game days. The spicy heat of the jalapenos paired with the creamy, melty texture of the Pepper Jack cheese creates an irresistible combination. I find that baking them instead of frying makes them healthier without sacrificing flavor. Preparing this appetizer is straightforward, and the result is always a crowd-pleaser. Plus, you only need a handful of ingredients to bring this delicious dish to life, making it perfect for a quick snack or a fun party treat.

Created by

Dorothy Finch

Last updated on 2026-01-13T05:29:35.987Z

When I first tried making Jalapeno Poppers with Pepper Jack, I was pleasantly surprised by how easy it was to pull together this delicious appetizer. I love experimenting in the kitchen, and this recipe gave me the chance to test out different spice levels by adjusting how many seeds I included. My tip is to use fresh jalapenos, as they pack the most flavor and heat.

One key to achieving the perfect texture is to bake them at a high temperature, allowing the cheese to become gooey while keeping the jalapeno still crisp. I've served these at parties, and they've always gotten rave reviews. Just be sure to have some ranch dressing or sour cream on the side for dipping!

        Why You'll Love These Jalapeno Poppers
        Creamy Pepper Jack cheese that adds a zesty kick
Perfect balance of heat and flavor for spice lovers
Quick and easy to prepare for any occasion

      

Understanding Ingredients

The star of this recipe, jalapenos, vary significantly in heat level depending on their size and ripeness. While fresh, vibrant green jalapenos usually have a moderate heat, older peppers may pack a punch. If you're preparing these for guests who might be sensitive to spice, consider sampling a small piece to gauge their heat. For an even milder option, you can opt for poblano peppers, which offer a smoky flavor with significantly less heat.

The creamy filling is crucial to achieving that luscious texture characteristic of Jalapeno Poppers. The combination of softened Pepper Jack cheese and cream cheese provides a perfect blend of flavors; Pepper Jack contributes a zesty kick while cream cheese ensures a rich mouthfeel. For a twist, you could incorporate shredded cheese varieties like cheddar or mozzarella, but be mindful that the melting properties may vary slightly.

Perfecting Your Technique

Slice jalapenos lengthwise and remove seeds using a spoon—this not only reduces the spice but also allows for a better filling-to-pepper ratio. Be cautious; wearing gloves while handling jalapenos is wise to avoid skin irritation. I’ve learned the hard way to always keep my hands protected, especially when removing seeds and ribs. If you’d like extra crispiness, broil them for the last few minutes of baking, watching closely to prevent burning.

Baking instead of frying not only makes these poppers healthier but also enhances the flavors as they roast. Spraying with olive oil ensures even browning. A light spray after placing them on the baking sheet can lead to a golden, crispy crust—essential for that satisfying texture contrast. If you're using parchment paper, be aware that it might prevent proper browning, so consider lightly greasing the paper instead.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to whip up your Jalapeno Poppers with Pepper Jack:

Ingredients

12 fresh jalapenos
8 oz Pepper Jack cheese, softened
4 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil spray

Instructions

Follow these steps to create delicious Jalapeno Poppers:

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds with a spoon. For milder poppers, remove more seeds.

Make the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened Pepper Jack cheese, cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended.

Fill the Jalapenos

Spoon the cheese mixture into each jalapeno half, filling generously.

Add the Topping

Sprinkle the breadcrumbs on top of the filled jalapenos for added crunch.

Bake

Place the stuffed jalapenos on a baking sheet, spray lightly with olive oil, and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the tops are golden.

Allow the poppers to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, you can add diced bacon or sausage to the cheese mixture. Additionally, serve with dipping sauces like ranch, blue cheese, or salsa for a flavorful touch.

Make-Ahead and Storage

Jalapeno Poppers can be prepared ahead of time, making them an excellent choice for busy gatherings. After filling the jalapenos, cover them tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, simply remove them from the fridge, and let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before popping them in the oven. This helps ensure even cooking throughout.

If you have leftovers (though unlikely!), 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 regain their crispy texture. Microwaving can make the peppers soggy, so the oven is the better option here to maintain that crunchy topping.

Variations and Serving Options

Feel free to customize the filling! Adding diced cooked bacon or crumbled sausage can elevate your poppers into a more hearty snack—perfect for meat lovers. You can also add finely chopped herbs like cilantro or chives for an extra flavor boost. Experimenting with cheeses can yield delightful results; consider adding a bit of feta or blue cheese for a unique twist on the classic recipe.

These Jalapeno Poppers pair wonderfully with dipping sauces. A cooling ranch dressing or a tangy cilantro lime sauce complements the heat nicely. For a fun serving idea, try presenting them on a platter with assorted dipping options, allowing guests to choose their preferred sauce. They make a great addition to game day spreads or casual get-togethers.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make Jalapeno Poppers ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the jalapenos and fill them a few hours in advance. Just cover and refrigerate until you're ready to bake.

→ How can I make them spicier?

To increase the heat, leave some seeds in the jalapenos or add chopped jalapenos to the cheese mixture.

→ Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! You can substitute with cheddar, mozzarella, or any cheese that melts well.

→ Are there any vegetarian options?

Yes, you can make the filling with just cream cheese and various herbs or spices for flavor, without adding meat.