Jalapeno Poppers with Herb Cream Cheese

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Herb Cream Cheese
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 10 fresh jalapenos; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/4 cup fresh chives, chopped; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 cup bread crumbs (optional, for topping)

Highlighted under: Favorite Baking Recipes

I love making these Jalapeno Poppers with Herb Cream Cheese because they offer a perfect balance of spicy and creamy flavors. Each bite is a delightful explosion, and they are always a hit at gatherings. What’s great about this recipe is the ease with which the cream cheese can be customized to suit your preferences. Whether you like it tangy with the addition of lemon juice or you want a hint of garlic, you can easily adjust it. Plus, they're baked instead of fried, making them a bit healthier while retaining that satisfying crunch.

Created by

Lavinia Moore

Last updated on 2026-01-13T02:07:35.208Z

When I first tried Jalapeno Poppers, I was amazed by how well the heat of the jalapeno was complemented by the creamy filling. Over time, I learned to make my own version that incorporates fresh herbs for an extra layer of flavor. I remember the first time I brought these to a party; they were gone in minutes!

One tip I can share is to use fresh herbs like chives and parsley for the cream cheese filling to elevate the taste. I also found that baking them instead of frying makes them just as crispy, while being a healthier option. It’s amazing how a simple ingredient swap can change the entire dish.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Spicy kick balanced with creamy herb filling
Versatile - customize the filling to your liking
Baked for a healthier twist on a classic snack

Selecting the Perfect Jalapenos

When choosing jalapenos for your poppers, look for firm peppers with a vibrant green color. They should be smooth and blemish-free, ensuring their freshness. Larger jalapenos can result in more filling but take a bit longer to cook. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can opt for jalapenos that are lighter in color or have wrinkles, as they may be slightly older and less spicy. Always use gloves when handling the peppers to protect your skin from their heat.

Cleaning the jalapenos properly is crucial to avoid any residual bitterness. After slicing them in half, make sure to thoroughly remove the seeds and membranes with a small spoon or a paring knife. This step not only reduces the heat level but also creates more space for the flavorful cream cheese filling. Feel free to taste-test a seed or two to gauge the heat level of your peppers before assembling.

Cream Cheese Customization Tips

The herb cream cheese filling can be tailored to your taste preferences with a few simple additions. For a zesty kick, consider mixing in citrus zest like lemon or lime. If you're a fan of stronger flavors, a bit of crumbled feta or blue cheese can elevate the taste profile. Conversely, you might want to add a small amount of cream to the mixture for an even smoother consistency, especially if you like a richer texture in your poppers.

For those on a dairy-free diet, vegan cream cheese can be a fantastic substitute without compromising the creamy texture. Additionally, using roasted garlic instead of fresh can provide a more mellow flavor that pairs nicely with the spices and herbs. Whether you’re experimenting with heat levels or trying different herbs, the versatility of this filling allows for endless variations to suit every palate.

Making Jalapeno Poppers Ahead of Time

These jalapeno poppers can be prepared ahead of time, making them a perfect option for parties or meal prepping. After stuffing the jalapenos, arrange them on a baking sheet, cover with plastic wrap, and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. This allows the flavors to meld while saving you time on the day of serving. Just remember to adjust your baking time slightly, as chilled poppers may require a couple of extra minutes in the oven.

If you want to freeze your jalapeno poppers for later enjoyment, place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them into a freezer bag. They can be baked straight from frozen, adding about 10 minutes to the cooking time. This is a great way to have a spicy snack ready at a moment's notice, perfect for unexpected gatherings or late-night cravings.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create these delicious Jalapeno Poppers:

Ingredients

10 fresh jalapenos
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup fresh chives, chopped
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon paprika
1/2 cup bread crumbs (optional, for topping)

Make sure to have everything on hand before starting to ensure a smooth cooking experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your Jalapeno Poppers:

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes using gloves for safety.

Make the Cream Cheese Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, cheddar cheese, chives, parsley, garlic, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix thoroughly until well combined.

Fill the Jalapenos

Using a spoon or piping bag, fill each halved jalapeno with the cream cheese mixture, ensuring they are generously filled.

Optional Topping

If desired, sprinkle bread crumbs on top of the filled jalapenos for added crunch.

Bake

Place the jalapeno poppers on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until the jalapenos are tender and the filling is golden.

Serve

Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious Jalapeno Poppers with Herb Cream Cheese!

Enjoy these tasty snacks warm with your favorite dipping sauce!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, leave some seeds in the jalapenos. You can also add a sprinkle of smoked paprika for an added depth of flavor.

Serving Suggestions

These jalapeno poppers can make a vibrant addition to a charcuterie board. Pair them with a variety of dips such as ranch, blue cheese dressing, or a tangy salsa verde to enhance their flavor. The creamy filling and spicy kick will nicely complement the savory elements of cheese and cured meats, making for a delightful snacking experience. Consider serving them alongside crunchy vegetables for a refreshing balance.

For a fun twist, try serving your poppers in a taco form. Simply chop the halved poppers and mix them into taco meat for a unique filling option, or use them as toppings for nachos. The creamy, spicy flavor will elevate any dish, making your meals both exciting and satisfying.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your jalapeno poppers are overly spicy, don't worry! You can balance the heat by serving them with a cooling side such as sour cream or guacamole. Additionally, pairing them with a slightly sweet element like honey drizzled on top can create a delightful contrast, mellowing the heat. Always remember that the level of spiciness can vary greatly between individual jalapenos, so taste-testing is key.

A common issue with baking jalapeno poppers is the potential for soggy bottoms. To avoid this, make sure your cream cheese filling is thick enough and that you bake them on a lined or greased baking sheet. Using a wire rack on top of the baking sheet can help promote even cooking and crispiness. Keep an eye on the poppers towards the end of baking to ensure they don’t overbrown but still achieve that golden, appetizing finish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of peppers?

Absolutely! You can substitute jalapenos with other peppers like poblano for a milder flavor or serrano for more heat.

→ How do I store leftover poppers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

→ Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare them up to the baking stage, cover them, and refrigerate for a day before baking.

→ What can I serve with jalapeno poppers?

They pair well with ranch dressing, guacamole, or salsa for dipping.