If you’re a fan of spicy snacks that pack a punch but are also creamy and cheesy, then Cream Cheese and Cheddar Jalapeño Poppers are exactly what you need. These delicious, flavor-packed treats combine the bold heat of fresh jalapeños with a creamy, cheesy filling, topped off with a crispy, golden breadcrumb coating. Whether you’re serving them at a party, as an appetizer, or simply enjoying them as a fun snack, they’re sure to be a hit with anyone who loves a little spice and a lot of flavor.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about making these Cream Cheese and Cheddar Jalapeño Poppers, including step-by-step instructions, tips, and a few variations to keep things interesting. So, let’s dive right in!

Why You’ll Love Cream Cheese and Cheddar Jalapeño Poppers

These Cream Cheese and Cheddar Jalapeño Poppers are the perfect combination of spicy, creamy, and crunchy. The jalapeños themselves add a vibrant heat, while the cream cheese filling provides a cool, smooth contrast. The sharp cheddar cheese enhances the flavor and gives these poppers a deliciously cheesy core. When baked, the panko breadcrumb coating turns golden brown and crispy, adding the perfect texture to the soft, cheesy filling.

Not only are these poppers easy to make, but they also make for a great party appetizer or game day snack. You can customize the recipe to make it milder or spicier, depending on your preferences, making it an ideal dish for a wide range of tastes.

The Ingredients for Cream Cheese and Cheddar Jalapeño Poppers

Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s make sure you have everything you need. Here’s what you’ll need to make Cream Cheese and Cheddar Jalapeño Poppers for about 20 servings:

For the Poppers:

10 fresh jalapeños (size matters here; medium-sized peppers work best)
8 oz cream cheese (room temperature for easy mixing)
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (the sharper, the better!)
1 clove of garlic, minced (or ½ tsp garlic powder if you’re in a pinch)
½ tsp onion powder
½ tsp smoked paprika (for a slight smoky kick)
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Crispy Coating (optional but so good!):

1 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 tbsp butter, melted (helps with browning)
¼ cup parmesan cheese, grated (extra cheesy flavor)

These ingredients come together to create a creamy, cheesy filling, a spicy kick from the jalapeños, and a crunchy breadcrumb coating that adds an irresistible texture to each bite.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Cream Cheese and Cheddar Jalapeño Poppers

Now that we’ve covered the ingredients, let’s get into the step-by-step process of making these Cream Cheese and Cheddar Jalapeño Poppers. It’s easier than you might think and totally worth the effort!

Step 1: Prepare the Jalapeños

Start by preparing your jalapeños. Cut them in half lengthwise and carefully remove the seeds. This step is important for controlling the heat. If you want a milder popper, make sure to remove all the seeds. However, if you’re a fan of spice, leave some seeds in to add an extra kick. You can also scrape out the membranes of the peppers to further reduce the heat, depending on your spice tolerance.

Step 2: Mix the Cream Cheese Filling

In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sharp cheddar cheese, garlic, onion powder, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Using a hand mixer or a spoon, blend everything together until smooth and creamy. The result will be a thick, cheesy filling that will perfectly complement the jalapeños.

Step 3: Stuff the Jalapeños

Now comes the fun part: stuffing the peppers! Use a spoon to fill each jalapeño half with the cream cheese mixture. Be generous with the filling, packing it in so that each popper is well-stuffed. This creamy mixture will spread out as it bakes, so make sure the filling is nicely heaped in each pepper for maximum flavor.

Step 4: Make the Crispy Coating

While the stuffed jalapeños are ready to go, let’s prepare the crispy coating. In a small bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and grated parmesan cheese. The butter helps the breadcrumbs brown nicely in the oven, while the parmesan adds an extra layer of cheesy goodness. Mix everything together until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated in the butter and cheese.

Step 5: Coat the Poppers

Dip each stuffed jalapeño into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to coat the entire surface of the pepper. This coating gives the Cream Cheese and Cheddar Jalapeño Poppers their signature crispy exterior. Make sure each popper is well-coated with the breadcrumb mixture to ensure the perfect crunch when baked.

Step 6: Bake the Poppers

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the coated jalapeño poppers onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly apart. Bake the poppers for 20-25 minutes, or until the breadcrumbs turn golden brown and crispy. The cheese will also begin to bubble out of the peppers, making the poppers even more irresistible.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Once your Cream Cheese and Cheddar Jalapeño Poppers are perfectly baked, take them out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. These poppers are best served hot and cheesy, with your favorite dipping sauce if desired. Try a creamy ranch dip, spicy sriracha sauce, or a cool cucumber dip to complement the heat of the jalapeños.

Tips for Perfect Cream Cheese and Cheddar Jalapeño Poppers

While making Cream Cheese and Cheddar Jalapeño Poppers is straightforward, there are a few tips that can take your poppers to the next level:

Use fresh jalapeños: Fresh peppers offer the best flavor and heat. Avoid using old or soft peppers, as they may not hold up well during baking.
Control the heat: As mentioned earlier, if you prefer a milder popper, be sure to remove all the seeds and membranes from the jalapeños. For extra heat, leave some seeds in or use hot chili peppers.
Make ahead: You can prepare the stuffed jalapeños ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Simply coat them with the breadcrumbs and bake when you’re ready to serve.
Customize the filling: Feel free to experiment with the filling! Add cooked bacon, green onions, or even a bit of smoked gouda for a different flavor profile. The possibilities are endless.

Nutritional Information for Cream Cheese and Cheddar Jalapeño Poppers

If you’re curious about the nutritional content of these delicious poppers, here’s a rough estimate based on one serving (2 poppers):

Calories: 160 kcal
Fat: 12g
Carbohydrates: 6g
Protein: 5g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 1g

While Cream Cheese and Cheddar Jalapeño Poppers are definitely an indulgence, they’re also packed with flavor and can be enjoyed in moderation as a tasty appetizer or snack.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

If you love these Cream Cheese and Cheddar Jalapeño Poppers, here are a few other delicious recipes you might want to try:

Crispy Southwest Avocado Egg Rolls: These crispy, cheesy egg rolls are filled with creamy avocado and Southwest-inspired flavors, making them a perfect pairing with your poppers.
Italian Crescent Roll Sandwich Bake: A delicious and easy-to-make sandwich bake that combines the flavors of Italy in a quick and simple recipe, perfect for dinner or as a snack.
Pizza Grilled Cheese: A fun twist on the classic grilled cheese sandwich, filled with pizza ingredients like marinara sauce and mozzarella, ideal for a cheesy, comforting treat.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Cream Cheese and Cheddar Jalapeño Poppers

How long are jalapeño poppers good for?

Properly stored, Cream Cheese and Cheddar Jalapeño Poppers can last in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. After they’ve cooled completely, place them in an airtight container. When ready to eat, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warm and crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the breadcrumb coating soggy.

How to keep cream cheese from coming out of jalapeño poppers?

To prevent the cream cheese filling from leaking during baking, make sure not to overfill the jalapeños. Also, pressing the filling gently into the cavity helps it stick better. If you’re using a breadcrumb topping, it acts as a barrier that holds the cheese in place. Another tip is to place the poppers cheese-side up on the baking sheet so the filling stays put while baking.

How long to bake cheese stuffed jalapeños?

Cream Cheese and Cheddar Jalapeño Poppers should be baked in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes. This bake time ensures the peppers soften slightly, the cheeses melt perfectly, and the breadcrumb topping turns golden and crispy. For a little extra crunch, you can broil them for the last 1–2 minutes—just watch them closely so they don’t burn.

How does jalapeño poppers taste?

These poppers deliver a mouthwatering mix of flavors—a creamy, rich filling from the cream cheese and cheddar, a slightly smoky kick from the paprika, and a crunchy topping that brings it all together. The jalapeños add a punch of heat, but when balanced with the smooth cheese blend, the result is a savory, mildly spicy snack that’s both satisfying and addictive.

Conclusion

Cream Cheese and Cheddar Jalapeño Poppers are a perfect balance of heat, creaminess, and crunch. With their smoky flavor, creamy filling, and crispy breadcrumb coating, these poppers are sure to be a crowd-pleaser at your next gathering. Whether you’re making them for a game day snack, a holiday party, or just as a savory treat for yourself, these poppers never disappoint.

The versatility of this recipe also allows for plenty of customization, from the type of cheese used to the heat level of the peppers. No matter how you make them, you’re guaranteed to enjoy these delicious poppers every time. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your oven, and get ready to enjoy one of the tastiest snacks around!

Cream Cheese and Cheddar Jalapeño Poppers Baked Easy

Author: MixMealMagic
Total Time: 35-40 minutes
Yield: 20 jalapeño poppers 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Looking for a snack that’s spicy, creamy, and irresistibly crispy? These Cream Cheese and Cheddar Jalapeño Poppers are the perfect appetizer for your next gathering! With a rich filling of cream cheese and sharp cheddar, a touch of smoky paprika, and a crunchy panko coating, every bite is a burst of flavor. Plus, they’re super easy to make in just under 30 minutes—perfect for game day or any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Poppers

10 fresh jalapeños (medium-sized)
8 oz cream cheese (room temperature)
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1 clove garlic, minced (or ½ tsp garlic powder)
½ tsp onion powder
½ tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Crispy Coating

1 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 tbsp butter, melted
¼ cup parmesan cheese, grated

Instructions

Prepare Jalapeños: Cut jalapeños in half lengthwise, removing seeds (leave some for a spicier popper).
Mix Filling: In a bowl, combine cream cheese, shredded cheddar, garlic, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy.
Stuff Peppers: Fill each jalapeño half generously with the cheesy mixture.
Make Crispy Coating: In a separate bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and parmesan cheese.
Coat Peppers: Dip each stuffed jalapeño into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to coat.
Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the poppers on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
Serve: Let the poppers cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy hot and cheesy, optionally with a dipping sauce!

Notes

Milder option: For a less spicy popper, remove all the seeds from the jalapeños.
Make it dairy-free: Use dairy-free cream cheese and cheddar for a vegan-friendly version.
Topping ideas: You can drizzle a bit of ranch dressing or serve with a spicy dipping sauce to enhance the flavor.
Freezing: These poppers freeze well! Prepare them up to the point of baking, then store them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen at 375°F for 25-30 minutes.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Category: Appetizer, Snack, Party Food
Method: Baked
Cuisine: American, Tex-Mex

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 Jalapeño Popper
Calories: 150 kcal
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 210mg
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 6g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 6g
Cholesterol: 30mg

Keywords: Cream Cheese and Cheddar Jalapeño Poppers, Baked Jalapeño Poppers, Cheesy Jalapeño Poppers, Spicy Appetizers, Party Snacks, Cream Cheese Appetizer, Tex-Mex Snacks, Jalapeño Appetizers