Jalapeno Poppers with Herb Cream Cheese

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Herb Cream Cheese
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 poppers
Ingredients: 12 fresh jalapenos, halved and seeded; 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 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp pepper; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; Olive oil spray

Highlighted under: Hearty Family Meals

I absolutely adore making Jalapeno Poppers with Herb Cream Cheese. These spicy little bites are not only deliciously addictive but also super easy to prepare. Whenever I serve them at gatherings, they tend to disappear in a flash! The creamy herb-filled center perfectly balances the heat of the jalapenos, making them a crowd-pleaser. Whether it's a game day snack or a party appetizer, these poppers never fail to impress. Trust me, once you try them, you'll be making these again and again!

Created by

Arabella Scott

Last updated on 2026-01-12T03:16:14.961Z

When I first experimented with Jalapeno Poppers, I knew I wanted to elevate the standard filling. I decided to incorporate fresh herbs into the cream cheese, creating a flavor explosion that just sweeps you off your feet. Using a mix of chives, parsley, and just a hint of garlic gives these poppers a unique taste that differentiates them from typical recipes. The fresh herbs really enhance the creaminess of the cheese, and every bite bursts with flavor.

One detail that transformed my poppers was not skimping on the cooking time. I found that baking them until they're golden and melty yields the perfect texture. The end result is a satisfying crunch on the outside and a creamy, herb-infused surprise inside. Trust me, they're worth the wait!

        Why You'll Love These Poppers
        Spicy and creamy flavor contrast that keeps you coming back for more
Homemade herb cream cheese adds freshness and depth
Perfectly crispy while being irresistibly gooey inside

      

The Essential Elements of Flavor

The cream cheese in this recipe serves as a rich and creamy base, which complements the heat of the jalapenos beautifully. When selecting cream cheese, opt for full-fat varieties for the richest flavor and texture. This creaminess helps to tame the burn from the jalapenos, balancing the overall flavor profile. Incorporating fresh herbs like chives and parsley not only adds brightness but also enhances the flavor complexity, making each bite more satisfying.

Shredded cheddar cheese is another key player that brings not only taste but also a delightful melting quality to the dish. For a variation, experimenting with different types of cheese like pepper jack can add an extra layer of flavor and heat. Keep in mind that fresh ingredients like garlic and herbs should be chopped finely to ensure even distribution in the filling, promoting a harmonious blend of tastes.

Mastering the Stuffing Technique

When stuffing the jalapenos, ensure each half is filled generously but not overflowing. Using a small spoon can help control the amount of filling without making a mess. Press down gently to pack the filling in, which helps avoid any gaps where filling can escape during baking. If you're concerned about the initial heat level, remove more seeds and membranes, as these parts hold most of the spiciness.

After you've stuffed the jalapenos, consider chilling them in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before baking. This can help the filling firm up, making it easier to handle and preventing it from oozing out during cooking. If you're preparing these for a gathering, you can stuff the jalapenos a day in advance and store them in an airtight container until you're ready to bake.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients for these delicious Jalapeno Poppers:

Ingredients

12 fresh jalapenos, halved and seeded
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 tsp salt
1/2 tsp pepper
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
Olive oil spray

Make sure to prepare everything before you start assembling your poppers!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Jalapeno Poppers:

Prepare the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, chives, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and fully integrated.

Stuff the Jalapenos

Using a small spoon, fill each jalapeno half with the cream cheese mixture until generously stuffed.

Coat with Breadcrumbs

Place the stuffed jalapenos on a baking sheet. Sprinkle breadcrumbs over each popper, ensuring an even coating.

Bake Them

Spray the tops lightly with olive oil, then bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15 minutes, or until they are golden and bubbling.

Let the poppers cool for a minute before serving. Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add some crumbled bacon into the cheese mixture or sprinkle some cayenne pepper in for heat!

Serving Suggestions

Jalapeno poppers are versatile and can be served with a variety of dips to enhance the flavor experience. A cool ranch or blue cheese dip pairs excellently with the spicy poppers, providing a contrast that many enjoy. Alternatively, a rich avocado crema can complement the jalapenos’ heat while offering a fresh twist.

To elevate your appetizer spread, consider pairing these poppers with other finger foods like meatballs or mini sliders. This combination not only creates an appealing presentation but also allows your guests to try different flavor profiles throughout the gathering.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have any leftover jalapeno poppers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for about 3-4 days. To maintain their crispy texture, avoid stacking them and separate layers with parchment paper if needed. When you’re ready to reheat them, placing them in an air fryer or oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 8-10 minutes will restore their crispness.

For longer-term storage, these poppers can be frozen before baking. After stuffing and coating with breadcrumbs, spread them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be baked directly from frozen, just add an additional 5-10 minutes to the cooking time and ensure they’re cooked through.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen jalapenos?

While fresh jalapenos are recommended for the best flavor and texture, you can use frozen ones if necessary. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Leftover Jalapeno Poppers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

→ Can I prepare these ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can stuff the jalapenos and coat them with breadcrumbs ahead of time. Just pop them in the oven when you're ready to serve.

→ Are these poppers spicy?

The spice level can vary depending on the jalapenos used. If you prefer a milder version, choose large, lighter-colored jalapenos.