Jalapeno Poppers with Garlic Herb Filling

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Garlic Herb Filling
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 24 poppers
Ingredients: 12 fresh jalapeno peppers; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp dried parsley; Salt and pepper to taste; Bacon bits (optional, for topping)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making these Jalapeno Poppers with Garlic Herb Filling for gatherings, as they bring a perfect blend of spice and flavor. The creaminess of the herb-infused cheese filling balances the heat of the jalapenos, creating a delightful bite that everyone enjoys. On a lazy weekend, we often whip these up as a snack, and they never disappoint. Plus, they are relatively easy to prepare, making them a go-to recipe for entertaining friends or just indulging at home.

Created by

Amber Walsh

Last updated on 2026-01-13T00:37:11.850Z

When I first made these Jalapeno Poppers with Garlic Herb Filling, I was amazed at how easy they were to pull together. The combination of cream cheese, herbs, and grated cheese creates a filling that boasts incredible flavor and a luscious texture. I recommend baking them instead of frying, as this keeps them lighter and lets the jalapeno's spice really shine through.

One trick I learned is to choose jalapenos that are similar in size for even cooking. If you want an extra kick, try leaving a few seeds in the peppers! The poppers are perfect for parties, and they disappear quickly, leaving our guests asking for the recipe.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        A perfect blend of creamy and spicy flavors
Great as an appetizer or a snack for game day
Easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser

      

Perfecting the Jalapeno Preparation

When choosing jalapenos, opt for firm, vibrant peppers free from wrinkles or blemishes. The size can vary, so aim for medium-sized jalapenos, which provide a good balance between heat and the amount of filling. After slicing them in half, use a small spoon or melon baller to carefully scoop out the seeds and membranes. This not only reduces the heat but also creates more space for the delicious filling, ensuring each popper is stuffed generously.

If you prefer a spicier kick, consider keeping some of the membranes intact. Alternatively, cherry or poblano peppers can also be used for a milder flavor profile. Just remember, different peppers may require slight adjustments in baking time due to size and thickness.

Enhancing the Filling

The filling is the star of the dish, so using high-quality ingredients is key. I prefer to use full-fat cream cheese for a creamier texture; it blends beautifully with the shredded cheddar and Parmesan. You can experiment with different cheeses too. For instance, adding pepper jack cheese can introduce a new layer of flavor and heat.

While garlic and herbs provide a classic taste, feel free to customize the filling with ingredients like smoked paprika or chopped fresh herbs for an extra zing. If you're looking to lighten the recipe, swap the cream cheese with a lower-fat alternative, but be aware that texture may slightly change. Always taste and adjust seasoning before stuffing the jalapenos.

Baking and Serving Tips

To achieve the best results, space the jalapeno poppers evenly on the baking sheet to allow for even cooking and browning. Baking at 375°F (190°C) is ideal; this temperature ensures the cheese filling melts beautifully without overcooking the jalapenos. Keep an eye on them; they should take about 20-25 minutes, but you might want to check for a bubbly, golden top slightly earlier, as oven temperatures can vary.

These poppers are best served immediately while warm, but they can also be made ahead of time. If preparing in advance, assemble the poppers and store them in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 24 hours before baking. For meal prep enthusiasts, you can freeze the unbaked poppers for up to two months. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you’re starting from frozen!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create these delicious jalapeno poppers:

Ingredients

12 fresh jalapeno peppers
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried parsley
Salt and pepper to taste
Bacon bits (optional, for topping)

Once you have all your ingredients ready, you can start preparing the filling!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare 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 for a milder taste. Set them aside.

Make the Filling

In a bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Stuff the Jalapenos

Fill each jalapeno half with the cheese filling, ensuring a generous amount is packed in.

Bake the Poppers

Place the stuffed jalapenos on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. If desired, sprinkle bacon bits on top. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the jalapenos are tender and the tops are golden brown.

Serve and Enjoy

Remove the jalapeno poppers from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm for the best flavor!

These jalapeno poppers can be served with a side of ranch or your favorite dipping sauce!

Pro Tips

For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like chives or cilantro to the filling mixture. You can also experiment with different cheese types for varied tastes.

Variations and Customizations

Feel free to play around with the filling ingredients to match your taste. You could add crumbled feta or goat cheese for a tangy twist, or throw in some finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes for depth. For a herbaceous boost, increase the amounts of oregano and parsley or introduce fresh basil or cilantro for a lighter note.

Another fun variation is to incorporate a diverse mix of toppings before baking. Aside from bacon bits, consider adding breadcrumbs mixed with herbs for added crunch, or drizzle with a spicy sauce to enhance the overall flavor profile. Each addition can dramatically change the dish, giving your poppers a unique flair.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheating them in the oven will help maintain their crispy texture, so place them back in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. The microwave is convenient, but it may result in a soggy texture, so use it as a last resort.

If you’ve made a large batch for a party and want to save them for later, freezing is a fantastic option. After baking the poppers, let them cool completely, then pack them tightly in a freezer-safe container for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, bake them straight from the freezer, increasing the baking time by 5-10 minutes until they're heated through and crispy on top.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these poppers ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the stuffed jalapenos in advance and keep them in the fridge until you're ready to bake them.

→ What can I substitute for cream cheese?

Neufchâtel cheese is a great alternative if you're looking for a lower-fat option, or you can use ricotta cheese for a different flavor profile.

→ How spicy are these jalapeno poppers?

The spice level largely depends on the jalapenos you choose. Removing the seeds and membranes makes them milder, but you can leave some seeds in for extra heat.

→ Can I freeze the jalapeno poppers?

Absolutely! You can freeze the uncooked stuffed jalapenos and bake them straight from frozen, just increasing the baking time slightly.