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: 12 poppers
Ingredients: 12 large jalapeno peppers; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 cup breadcrumbs; Olive oil spray

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love serving Jalapeno Poppers with Garlic Herb Filling at gatherings! There's something about the crispy, cheesy goodness combined with just the right amount of heat that really gets everyone excited. I often make these as a fun appetizer for game days or casual get-togethers with friends. By using fresh herbs and cream cheese, I’ve found that the filling becomes incredibly creamy and flavorful. This is a recipe I always return to because it never fails to impress, plus it's super easy to whip up in no time.

Created by

Madeline Archer

Last updated on 2026-01-12T02:10:16.864Z

I often experiment with fillings for jalapenos, but the garlic herb combination has become a favorite. The addition of herbs like parsley and dill enhances the creaminess of the cheese, creating a delightful contrast with the spicy peppers. I make sure to balance the seasoning perfectly, which elevates the taste without overpowering the jalapeno's natural flavor.

When baking these poppers, I always opt for a higher oven temperature to ensure that they turn golden brown and crispy on the outside. It's also essential to remove the seeds properly if you prefer a milder kick. Trust me—everyone will be asking for the recipe once they get a taste!

        Why You'll Love These Jalapeno Poppers
        Crispy bacon bits add an irresistible crunch
Creamy garlic herb filling bursting with flavor
Perfectly balanced heat for any palate
Quick and easy to prepare for any occasion

      

Ingredient Insights

The stars of this recipe are, of course, the jalapeno peppers. Choosing fresh, firm jalapenos is key to achieving the perfect popper. They should be vibrant green, with a few minor blemishes being acceptable but avoid any that are overly soft or shriveled. The heat level can vary between jalapenos, so taste one before you begin to gauge how spicy your poppers might turn out.

For the filling, cream cheese serves as the creamy base, but it's important to bring it to room temperature before mixing. This ensures a smooth consistency and allows the other ingredients to blend seamlessly. Adding freshly minced garlic not only enhances flavor but also gives the filling a delightful aroma that wafts through your kitchen as they bake.

Assembly Tips

When filling the jalapenos, be generous but also cautious; overfilling can lead to spilling and uneven cooking. Use the back of a spoon for an even spread, pushing the filling firmly into each pepper half. This not only helps to ensure a good amount of cheese in every bite but also reduces the chances of the cheese bubbling over in the oven.

If you're short on time, consider preparing the filling in advance. It can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before filling the jalapenos, as it may thicken slightly when chilled. This is a great way to save time on party day while still serving a fresh, homemade appetizer.

Serving Suggestions

These jalapeno poppers are fantastic on their own, but you can elevate them with a couple of dips. A side of ranch dressing or creamy avocado dip complements the poppers' heat and richness beautifully. For an artisan touch, serve them alongside a charcuterie board filled with cured meats and cheeses for a mouthwatering contrast.

If you anticipate leftovers (which I doubt you will!), these poppers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat them in the oven to retain their crispy texture—just 10 minutes at 350°F (175°C) should do the trick, restoring their initial crunchiness.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for delicious jalapeno poppers:

Ingredients for Jalapeno Poppers

12 large jalapeno peppers
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup breadcrumbs
Olive oil spray

Once you have gathered your ingredients, you're ready to start preparing these tasty treats!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your jalapeno poppers:

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes using a small spoon or knife.

Make the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, cheddar cheese, parsley, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, crumbled bacon, and Parmesan cheese. Mix until well blended.

Fill the Jalapenos

Spoon the cheese mixture into each halved jalapeno, packing it in generously.

Coat with Breadcrumbs

Place the filled jalapenos on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top of each and lightly spray with olive oil.

Bake

Bake the poppers in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes or until the tops are golden brown.

Serve

Allow the jalapeno poppers to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm!

These jalapeno poppers are best served warm and make a fantastic starter for any meal!

Pro Tips

For a spicier version, leave some seeds in the jalapenos. You can also experiment with different cheeses in the filling!

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter jalapenos that are particularly spicy, consider soaking them in milk for about 30 minutes before filling. The dairy helps to neutralize some of the heat. Alternatively, if you prefer a milder flavor, you can substitute some of the jalapenos with mini sweet peppers, which provide a similar crunch without the heat.

Another common issue is uneven cooking, which can happen if your jalapenos are not uniformly cut. Aim for evenly-sized halves to promote consistent cooking. If you notice they aren't browning evenly, rotate the baking sheet halfway through cooking to ensure all sides receive adequate heat.

Variations You Can Try

For a unique flavor twist, consider adding different types of cheese to your filling. Creamy goat cheese or spicy pepper jack can provide an interesting depth and complexity to the usual flavors. You can also play around with fresh herbs; basil or cilantro can create a refreshing contrast that pairs perfectly with the richness of the filling.

If bacon isn't your thing or you want a vegetarian option, try incorporating black beans or chopped spinach for added texture and nutrition. This variation will still keep the poppers deliciously creamy while ensuring that everyone can enjoy this flavorful appetizer, regardless of dietary restrictions.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make jalapeno poppers ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the filling and stuff the jalapenos a day in advance. Just cover them and keep them in the fridge until you're ready to bake.

→ What if I don't like spicy food?

You can use milder peppers like banana peppers instead of jalapenos or remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapenos to reduce the heat.

→ Can these poppers be frozen?

Absolutely! Freeze the stuffed jalapenos before baking. Just bake them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

→ What can I serve with these poppers?

They pair wonderfully with ranch or sour cream for dipping, or you can serve them alongside a zesty salsa.