Jalapeno Poppers with Pepper Jack

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Pepper Jack
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 poppers
Ingredients: 12 large 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; Cooking spray

Highlighted under: Classic Comfort Food Favorites

I absolutely love making Jalapeno Poppers with Pepper Jack when I want a spicy snack that really packs a flavor punch. The combination of creamy cheese and the piquant kick of jalapenos makes for a delightful treat that’s perfect for gatherings or just snacking while watching a movie. Trust me, once you pop one of these in your mouth, you won't be able to stop at just one. They are surprisingly easy to make too, making them a staple in my kitchen.

Created by

Chloe Baker

Last updated on 2026-01-13T03:53:36.103Z

Trying out different fillings for jalapeno poppers has been one of my favorite kitchen experiments. Recently, I stumbled upon using Pepper Jack cheese, and it completely elevated the flavors! The heat from the jalapeno paired with the creamy, spicy cheese gives a wonderful kick that I truly enjoy. Baking them instead of frying is also a game changer, allowing for a crispy exterior while keeping the insides deliciously gooey.

One tip I have is to ensure you wear gloves while handling the jalapenos. The oils can be quite spicy, and you don't want to accidentally touch your face afterward! Also, if you can, let the poppers cool slightly after baking; they tend to be super hot right out of the oven, but they get even more flavorful as they rest for a few minutes.

Why You'll Love These Jalapeno Poppers
Creamy Pepper Jack cheese with a spicy kick
Perfect balance of heat and flavor in every bite
Easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser

Perfecting Your Jalapeno Poppers

The key to delicious jalapeno poppers is in the preparation of the peppers. After slicing the jalapenos in half, it's essential to remove the seeds and membranes thoroughly. This step can significantly affect the heat level – the more membranes you remove, the milder the poppers will be. If you enjoy a stronger kick, leave a few seeds in, but be cautious, as they can really amp up the spice.

When making the filling, ensure both the Pepper Jack and cream cheese are softened to room temperature. This will make achieving a creamy, well-combined mixture much easier. Use a hand mixer or a fork to blend the cheeses until smooth. Avoid over-mixing, as this can incorporate too much air, leading to a less dense filling that might puff up too much while baking.

Baking Tips for Crunchy Poppers

For the best texture, preheat your oven correctly and confirm it's at 375°F (190°C) before placing the jalapeno poppers inside. A properly heated oven helps achieve golden, crispy breadcrumbs and perfectly melted cheese. If your poppers aren’t browning, consider moving the baking sheet to a higher rack for the last few minutes or switching to broil; just watch them closely to prevent burning.

Another popular variation involves adding bacon bits to the filling. If you're a bacon lover, cook and chop the bacon into small pieces before mixing it into the cheese blend. The smoky flavor complements the spicy jalapenos wonderfully and adds an extra layer of texture. Just keep in mind that if you're adding bacon, it may require adjusting the amount of salt in your filling.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients to make these delicious jalapeno poppers:

Jalapeno Poppers Ingredients

12 large 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
Cooking spray

Make sure to have everything prepped for a smooth cooking experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your jalapeno poppers:

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes carefully to reduce heat.

Make the Filling

In a bowl, mix together the softened Pepper Jack cheese, cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Stuff the Jalapenos

Spoon the cheese mixture into each jalapeno half, packing it tightly. Then, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for a crunchy finish.

Bake the Poppers

Place the stuffed jalapenos on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and spray with cooking spray. Bake for 15 minutes, or until the tops are golden and the cheese is bubbly.

Once baked, allow them to cool slightly before serving.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding diced bacon or spices like smoked paprika to the filling. You can also serve with a side of ranch dressing for dipping.

Storing and Freezing Tips

If you're planning ahead, jalapeno poppers freeze beautifully. After baking, let them cool completely, then place them in an airtight container, layering parchment paper between them to prevent sticking. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes until heated through and crispy.

For shorter-term storage, leftover baked poppers can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply store them in a sealed container to maintain their freshness. Reheat them in the oven to retain the crunchiness, as microwaving may result in a soggier texture which isn't ideal.

Serving Suggestions

These jalapeno poppers are incredibly versatile and pair well with various dips. A cool ranch or blue cheese dressing can offer a nice contrast to the heat. You can also try serving them with a spicy aioli or a lime-infused crema to elevate the flavor profile. Consider adding a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for a pop of color and added freshness.

For an even more indulgent treat, try wrapping the jalapeno poppers in prosciutto or pancetta before baking. This not only adds flavor but also gives a sophisticated twist to the classic recipe. Just ensure the wrapping is tight but not overly constrictive so that the cheese filling has room to expand while baking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make jalapeno poppers ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the poppers, but don't bake them. Cover and store in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.

→ Are there any alternatives to Pepper Jack cheese?

Definitely! You can use cheddar or any cheese that melts well if you prefer a milder flavor.

→ How do I make them less spicy?

Remove all the seeds and membranes from the jalapenos; this will significantly reduce the heat.

→ Can these be frozen?

Yes! You can freeze them before baking. Just bake them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.