Jalapeno Poppers Baked Crispy

Name: Jalapeno Poppers Baked Crispy
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 pieces
Ingredients: 12 fresh jalapenos, halved and seeded; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup Panko breadcrumbs; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely adore these Jalapeno Poppers Baked Crispy! They’re the perfect blend of spicy and creamy, all wrapped up in a golden, crunchy shell. I love serving them at parties or as a fun snack during movie nights. The best part is you can enjoy these without the guilt of deep frying them. With a few simple ingredients and some time in the oven, you can create a delicious appetizer that will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Created by

Vanessa Doyle

Last updated on 2026-01-10T12:19:10.011Z

When I first decided to bake Jalapeno Poppers instead of frying them, I was skeptical about whether they could still be crispy and delicious. However, after trying different techniques, I discovered that using Panko breadcrumbs on top adds the perfect crunch. Baked at a high temperature, these poppers come out perfectly golden and irresistible. I love incorporating different cheese fillings too, like cheddar and cream cheese, to elevate the flavors!

One time, I added a touch of garlic powder and smoked paprika to the cream cheese mixture, and it took the flavor to a whole new level! The hint of smokiness paired with the spice of the jalapenos is fantastic. I recommend experimenting with different seasonings; it really allows you to customize this recipe to your taste!

        Why You'll Love These Poppers
        A perfect balance of heat and creamy cheese filling
Baked to crispy perfection without excess oil
Great for parties, game days, or casual snacking

      

Choosing the Right Jalapenos

When selecting jalapenos for this recipe, aim for firm, bright green peppers that feel heavy for their size. Avoid ones that have soft spots, wrinkles, or an overly mature look, as these may have a milder flavor or softer texture. The size of the jalapenos can also affect the spice level; larger ones tend to be milder, while smaller peppers pack a bigger punch. Depending on your heat tolerance, you might choose to mix and match sizes to create a varied flavor profile.

The seeds and inner membrane of the jalapeno are where most of the heat resides. For a spicier bite, leave some of the seeds intact, or if you prefer a milder taste, ensure that you thoroughly deseed each half. You can also wear gloves while handling jalapenos, as oils from the peppers can irritate the skin and eyes. If you accidentally touch your face after handling them, be sure to wash your hands thoroughly!

Perfecting the Cheese Filling

The combination of cream cheese and shredded cheddar creates a luxurious filling that balances creaminess with robust flavor. For an extra layer of flavor, consider mixing in diced cooked bacon or green onions to the cheese blend. If you want to make this dish lighter, you can substitute part of the cream cheese with low-fat Greek yogurt, which will still provide a creamy texture but with fewer calories.

Ensuring that your cream cheese is soft enough to blend easily is key. Let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before mixing, or microwave it for about 15-20 seconds. This step makes blending much smoother and prevents a lumpy filling. Keep an eye on it, as overheating can lead to a cheese mixture that’s too runny and won’t hold its shape in the jalapenos.

Serving and Storing Your Poppers

These baked jalapeno poppers are best served fresh, so plan to make them shortly before your guests arrive. If you want to prepare them in advance, you can fill the jalapenos and keep them covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to add the Panko topping right before popping them in the oven to maintain that desired crunch.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheating them can be done in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, which will help preserve the crispy texture. You can also freeze unbaked poppers for up to three months. Just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to bake, no need to thaw; just increase the baking time by a few minutes.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Jalapeno Poppers:

Jalapeno Poppers Ingredients

12 fresh jalapenos, halved and seeded
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup Panko breadcrumbs
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure all the ingredients are prepped and ready for assembling!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your crispy jalapeno poppers:

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Mix the Filling

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

Stuff the Jalapenos

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

Add Panko and Bake

Sprinkle Panko breadcrumbs on top of the cheese-filled jalapenos for added crunch. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until the jalapenos are tender and the tops are golden brown.

Once done, let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, try marinating the jalapenos in olive oil and spices before filling them. This can add a nice depth to the dish.

Adjusting for Spice Level

Every jalapeno has a different spice level, so if you're unsure about the heat, taste a small piece of the pepper after slicing. This way, you can gauge whether you need to adjust for the spiciness in your filling. You can also mix in a small amount of sour cream or cream cheese to moderate the heat, making it more accessible for guests who may not enjoy spicy food.

If you're hosting a diverse crowd, consider providing a dipping sauce such as ranch or blue cheese to balance the heat for those who find the poppers a bit too fiery. This can provide a delicious contrast and enhance the overall tasting experience.

Variations on the Recipe

While the classic cheese filling is delightful, feel free to experiment with different cheeses and ingredients. For instance, try adding pepper jack cheese for a spicier cheese option, or incorporate feta and spinach for a Mediterranean twist. The versatility of these poppers allows for endless creativity.

For those looking to add a touch of sophistication, consider blending in some crab meat or smoked salmon to elevate the filling. These adaptations not only make the poppers unique but also add impressive flavors that will wow your guests.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Sometimes, you may find that the Panko topping doesn't get as crispy as desired. To combat this issue, make sure you’re using fresh Panko breadcrumbs, as older ones can lose their crunch. Lightly toasting the breadcrumbs in a dry skillet for a few minutes before applying can also enhance their crispiness when baked.

If you encounter poppers that are too soggy after baking, it could be due to excess moisture in the jalapenos. Before filling, make sure to pat down the cut sides with a paper towel to absorb any moisture. This step is essential for ensuring the poppers maintain their crispy texture throughout.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with various cheeses like pepper jack or feta for different flavors.

→ How spicy are these poppers?

The heat level can vary depending on the jalapenos used. Removing the seeds and membranes generally makes them milder.

→ Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! You can stuff the jalapenos and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking.

→ What can I serve with these poppers?

They pair wonderfully with ranch dressing or a spicy dipping sauce. You can also serve them alongside a fresh salad!