Print

Easy Baked Jalapeño Poppers with Cream Cheese Filling

A pile of golden-brown, breaded and baked jalapeño poppers filled with creamy cheese mixture.
Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Make these simple, cheesy jalapeño poppers in the oven for a perfect spicy appetizer for game night or any gathering.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 fresh jalapeño peppers
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 tablespoon melted butter
  • Optional: 12 strips bacon, halved (for bacon wrapped poppers)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Prepare the jalapeños: Wear gloves to protect your hands. Slice each jalapeño in half lengthwise. Use a small spoon or knife to carefully scrape out the seeds and white membranes. This step controls the heat level.
  3. Make the filling: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix until completely smooth and combined.
  4. Stuff the peppers: Spoon or pipe the cheese mixture evenly into each jalapeño half. Do not overfill.
  5. For un-wrapped poppers: Place the stuffed peppers on the prepared baking sheet.
  6. For bacon wrapped poppers: Wrap a half-strip of bacon around each stuffed pepper half and secure it with a toothpick if necessary. Place on the baking sheet.
  7. Prepare the topping: In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with the melted butter. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the tops of the stuffed peppers.
  8. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese filling is bubbly and lightly golden brown.
  9. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. These are best served warm.

Notes

  • Always wear gloves when handling jalapeños to prevent skin irritation from the capsaicin.
  • If you prefer a milder flavor, soak the hollowed-out pepper halves in ice water for 15 minutes before stuffing.
  • For extra flavor, you can mix 1 tablespoon of finely chopped chives into the cheese filling.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://spoonswirl.com/jalapeno-poppers-easy-baked-recipe/