Jalapeño Poppers

Jalapeño poppers are an iconic appetizer, finger food, and party snack loved by pretty much everyone. If you’re a fan of the traditional deep-fried version you find at certain fast-casual restaurants, you are definitely going to love this homemade version. They are so easy and absolutely delicious—you may never want to order them out ever again.

Fresh jalapeños make these homemade poppers really, well, POP! Slightly spicy, tender baked jalapeños with a creamy, cool cream cheese-and-Cheddar filling make for the ultimate flavor combo. Mix in some smokey, salty bacon pieces, and top them off with crispy, buttery panko breadcrumbs for a super-satisfying crunch. Baked until melty, gooey, and golden brown, and you’ve got yourself a mouthwatering, crowd-pleasing, hits-all-the-points snack.

Learn how to make jalapeño poppers. Manage the spiciness level by removing all the membrane or pith and seeds for a more mild jalapeño, or leave some in for extra heat. For sensitive palates, add some extra coolness by serving your poppers with ranch or blue cheese for dipping.

Ingredients for Jalapeño Poppers

These poppers are a powerhouse of flavor, combining fresh jalapeños with tangy cream cheese, sharp Cheddar, smoky bacon, garlic, green onions, and a crispy Panko topping. To make jalapeño poppers, you'll need:

• Jalapeños: The base of the poppers, adding a mildly spicy flavor and tender texture to the dish.
• Cream cheese: The creamy, tangy base of the filling.
• Sharp Cheddar cheese: Adds a sharp, cheesy flavor to the poppers.
• Bacon: For a meaty, smoky flavor and crispy texture to contrast the creamy filling.
• Garlic powder: Adds a savory depth.
• Kosher salt and pepper: Enhances the overall flavor.
• Green onions: Adds a pop of freshness and color to the dish.
• Panko breadcrumbs: For a crispy, crunchy coating to add another layer of texture to the dish.
• Butter: Binds the panko and helps the topping brown evenly in the oven.

How To Make Jalapeño Poppers

The perfect snack for game-day get-togethers, parties, or cookouts, these jalapeño poppers are deceptively simple to pull together. Full instructions are below, but here's a brief recap before you get started:

• Step 1. Prepare oven and baking sheet: Preheat oven, and line a baking sheet with foil.
• Step 2. Slice and clean jalapeños: Slice the jalapeños in half; remove membrane and seeds.
• Step 3. Mix the filling and topping: Mix the cream cheese, Cheddar cheese, bacon, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and green onions until combined. In a separate bowl, combine panko and butter.
• Step 4. Assemble and bake poppers: Fill jalapeño halves with cream cheese mixture, and top with panko mixture. Transfer to baking sheet and bake until golden brown and bubbly.

Our Tips for the Best Jalapeño Poppers

For the best jalapeño poppers, keep these tips in mind:

• Choose the best jalapeños: Choose jalapeños that are firm, smooth, and with a bright green color.
• Wear gloves: Capsaicin is no joke. Wear gloves when handling the jalapeños to avoid any irritation.
• Softened cream cheese: Remember to let your cream cheese stand at room temperature until softened before using for the smoothest filling.
• Space apart: For even baking, space the jalapeños out on the baking sheet for good airflow.
• Serve immediately: For the most molten, cheesy center, and crispy topping, serve these poppers hot out of the oven.

Can I Make Jalapeño Poppers Ahead?

We have great news—You can make these poppers in advance of your party, and have them ready to bake when you're ready to serve. To make them ahead, halve and fill the jalapeños as directed. Transfer to a plate and wrap tightly, or place into an airtight container and seal. Refrigerate for up to two days, and bake as directed before serving.

How To Store and Reheat Leftover Jalapeño Poppers

Store leftover jalapeño poppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. You can also freeze for longer storage. Just place onto a lined baking sheet in a single layer, and freeze until firm to keep them from sticking together. Transfer to a freezer-safe zip-top bag or container, and freeze for up to three months.

Reheat straight from the fridge or freezer in a preheated 350°F oven or air fryer until hot throughout to revive that freshly-baked texture. Avoid reheating in the microwave, which could make them soggy.

What To Serve With Jalapeño Poppers

A flavorful, spicy appetizer that pairs well with a variety of dishes, pair jalapeño poppers with crudité and dip, nachos, Buffalo wings, tortilla chips and salsa, or other favorite game day snacks.

More Spicy Finger Food Recipes You'll Love

Add excitement to any gathering by serving these crowd-pleasing, spicy finger foods:

• Spicy Fried Deviled Eggs
• Spicy Cheese Twists
• Texas Twinkies
• Cheesy Chorizo-Stuffed Chiles
• Spicy Strawberry Crostini
• Spicy Cheese Straws
• Spicy Cheddar Crisps
• Spicy Bisquick Sausage Balls
• Spicy Sweet Potato Crostini

Editorial contributions by Katie Rosenhouse.