Jalapeno Poppers Baked Crispy

Name: Jalapeno Poppers Baked Crispy
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 24 poppers
Ingredients: 12 large jalapeno peppers, halved and seeded; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

We love making Jalapeno Poppers Baked Crispy on game days or for casual get-togethers. The crispy outside with the cheesy, spicy filling is irresistible! I can never get enough of these zesty bites, and the best part is, they're healthier than the traditional fried version. With just the right amount of heat and a delightful crunch, these poppers always impress our guests. Plus, they’re easy to prepare ahead of time, making them a staple in our recipe rotation!

Created by

Cassidy Moore

Last updated on 2026-01-10T12:13:06.944Z

Creating Jalapeno Poppers Baked Crispy has become a delightful venture in my kitchen. The combination of cream cheese and spices inside the jalapenos creates a savory filling that bursts with flavor. I found that mixing in some cheddar cheese adds a melty richness that balances the heat beautifully.

During my many attempts, I discovered that baking them instead of frying not only makes them healthier but also allows for an evenly crispy exterior. A sprinkle of panko breadcrumbs before baking takes the crunch to another level!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Crispy texture with a cheesy, spicy filling
Healthier than traditional fried poppers
Perfect for parties or game days

      

Understanding the Key Ingredients

The combination of cream cheese and cheddar cheese creates a rich and creamy filling that balances the heat of the jalapenos perfectly. Cream cheese adds a smooth texture, while the cheddar brings a sharp flavor that heightens the overall profile of these poppers. Always opt for block cheddar over pre-shredded for a richer taste and better melt. When mixing the cheeses, blend until completely smooth for the best texture.

Panko breadcrumbs are crucial for achieving that perfect crispy crust. Unlike regular breadcrumbs, panko is lighter and airier, which ensures a better crunch once baked. Mixing them with olive oil not only enhances the flavor but also aids in browning. If you're looking for a gluten-free option, you can easily substitute panko with crushed gluten-free crackers or cornflakes.

The jalapenos' heat level varies significantly, so tasting a piece before preparation can help gauge how spicy your poppers will be. If you prefer milder jalapenos, choose lighter green ones, which tend to be less spicy, and ensure you've removed all the seeds and membranes. For a bolder version, leave some seeds intact or experiment with hotter varieties like serrano peppers.

Tips for Perfectly Baked Poppers

To ensure even cooking and browning, arrange the stuffed jalapenos on the baking sheet with a small space between them. This allows hot air to circulate freely, which is crucial for achieving that desirable crunch on the outside. Line the baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easy clean-up afterward.

Baking times can vary based on your oven and the size of the jalapenos. Keep a close eye on them as they near the 20-minute mark. You should look for a golden-brown topping with a visibly bubbly filling. If you find that the fill is not as golden, consider broiling for an additional 1-2 minutes, but watch carefully to avoid burning.

If you're prepping these ahead of time, you can assemble and freeze the poppers before baking. Just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to an airtight container. When you're ready to enjoy them, bake from frozen, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time.

Ingredients

For the Jalapeno Poppers

12 large jalapeno peppers, halved and seeded
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix all ingredients thoroughly before stuffing the jalapenos.

Instructions

Prepare the Jalapenos

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

Make the Filling

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

Stuff the Jalapenos

Spoon the cheese mixture generously into each jalapeno half, ensuring they are well-filled.

Prepare for Baking

In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with olive oil. Sprinkle the mixture over each stuffed jalapeno.

Bake

Arrange the stuffed jalapenos on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the breadcrumbs are golden and crispy.

Serve

Remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve warm and enjoy!

Serve with your favorite dipping sauce.

Pro Tips

To reduce spiciness, soak the jalapenos in a mixture of vinegar and water for about 30 minutes before preparing. You can also add crispy bacon bits to the cheese filling for an extra flavor boost.

Serving Suggestions

Jalapeno poppers are versatile and can be served in various ways to cater to different tastes. For a fun twist, serve them with dipping sauces like ranch dressing or a zesty garlic aioli. You can also top them with a drizzle of barbecue sauce or a sprinkle of sliced green onions for added color and flavor.

For those looking to make it a full meal, these poppers pair well with sides like homemade guacamole, fresh salsa, or a light salad. Providing an array of sides can help balance the heat from the jalapenos, making for an enjoyable dining experience.

If you're hosting a party, consider serving these alongside other finger foods, such as mini sliders or buffalo wings. This way, your guests can mix and match flavors, and you'll have a spread that keeps everyone satisfied throughout the event.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftover jalapeno poppers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain their crispiness, reheat them in an oven instead of a microwave; this will help revive the crunchy texture. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place them on a baking sheet for about 10-15 minutes, checking for warmth throughout.

If you plan on making a large batch, the unbaked poppers can be stored in the freezer. After assembling, freeze them before baking, and they can last up to three months. When ready to bake, simply add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure they’re cooked through and crispy.

To make them more budget-friendly, consider using leftover cheeses from other meals. You can play around with different cheese blends or add in ingredients like crumbled bacon or spices to customize the flavors based on what you have on hand.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the stuffed jalapenos and refrigerate them for a day before baking.

→ Can I freeze Jalapeno Poppers?

Absolutely! You can freeze them before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from frozen.

→ What can I serve with Jalapeno Poppers?

These poppers go great with ranch dressing, sour cream, or guacamole as a dipping sauce.

→ Are they very spicy?

The spice level depends on the jalapenos. Removing the seeds reduces the heat significantly.