Jalapeno Poppers with Herb Breadcrumbs

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Herb Breadcrumbs
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 poppers
Ingredients: 12 large jalapenos, halved and seeded; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tsp garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil spray

Highlighted under: Clean Food

I love making Jalapeno Poppers with Herb Breadcrumbs for gatherings because they are always a hit! The spicy kick of the jalapenos balanced with the creamy filling and crunchy topping is simply irresistible. I’ve experimented with various fillings and toppings, but this combination of cream cheese, herbs, and crispy breadcrumbs is my favorite. It also allows the flavor of the jalapenos to shine while adding a satisfying texture. These poppers are perfect for game days or any casual get-together!

Created by

Zadie Whitmore

Last updated on 2026-01-05T19:37:35.422Z

When I first tried my hand at making Jalapeno Poppers, I never expected them to become a staple in my recipe arsenal. I remember experimenting with the filling, adding different herbs, and finally landing on a blend that complemented the jalapenos perfectly. The crunchy breadcrumb topping gives an extra crunch that makes each bite a delight!

One key tip I’ve learned is to carefully select the jalapenos; some can be milder than others. I always taste one first to gauge its heat level before proceeding. This attention to detail ensures a balanced flavor in the finished poppers!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Perfect balance of spice and creaminess
Crispy herb-infused breadcrumb topping
Great for parties or a cozy night in

Choosing the Right Jalapenos

When selecting jalapenos for your poppers, look for firm peppers that are bright green with smooth skin. The size of the jalapeno can impact the heat level and filling capacity; larger ones generally have a milder flavor and can hold more filling. If you're sensitive to spice, consider using milder varieties or removing more of the membrane and seeds, which contain much of the heat.

Don't be afraid to experiment with different types of peppers, too! For a unique twist, try using poblano peppers for a smoky flavor, or even mini sweet peppers for a non-spicy alternative. The filling can be adjusted accordingly; just keep the texture in mind to ensure it fits well within the pepper.

The Importance of Cream Cheese

Cream cheese is essential for achieving the rich and creamy filling texture that pairs so well with the spicy jalapenos. Make sure it’s softened to room temperature before mixing, as this allows for a smooth blend with the cheddar and herbs. If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute with Neufchâtel cheese, which has lower fat content while still delivering great flavor.

Flavor enhancements can be made by incorporating ingredients such as diced bacon or a blend of different cheeses like pepper jack for an extra kick. Just remember to balance out any additional ingredients so the filling maintains a cohesive consistency and can be easily packed into the jalapenos.

Perfecting the Breadcrumb Topping

For the breadcrumb topping, choose fresh breadcrumbs over dried ones for a better texture that holds moisture well during baking. If you only have dried breadcrumbs on hand, consider adding a bit of melted butter or olive oil along with herbs to enhance the flavor and ensure they crisp up nicely in the oven. This will give the poppers a satisfying crunch that contrasts perfectly with the creamy filling.

You can also switch up the herb profile according to your taste; try using thyme or oregano in place of parsley, or add grated Parmesan cheese for an umami boost. Just be sure to adjust the amount of seasoning accordingly, as some herbs can have a stronger flavor than others.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create delicious Jalapeno Poppers:

Ingredients

12 large jalapenos, halved and seeded
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil spray

Now that you have your ingredients, let's make these poppers irresistible!

Instructions

Follow these steps for perfect Jalapeno Poppers:

Prepare the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped parsley, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well blended.

Fill the Jalapenos

Spoon the filling mixture into each jalapeno half, generously packing it in.

Prepare Breadcrumb Topping

In another bowl, toss the breadcrumbs with a drizzle of olive oil to moisten them. You can also add a pinch of salt for extra flavor.

Assemble and Bake

Place the filled jalapenos on a baking sheet and sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture on top of each. Spray with olive oil for added crispiness.

Bake

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the poppers for 25 minutes or until the tops are golden brown and crispy.

Let the Jalapeno Poppers cool slightly before serving. Enjoy the amazing combination of flavors!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, try adding some diced cooked bacon to the cream cheese filling.

Make-Ahead Tips

These jalapeno poppers can be prepared ahead of time, making them a hassle-free appetizer for entertaining. After filling the jalapenos and adding the breadcrumb topping, you can cover them with plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator for up to a day. When you’re ready to bake, simply remove them from the fridge, spray with olive oil, and bake. It may take an extra few minutes in the oven since they’ll be cold at the start.

If you'd like to prepare them even further in advance, consider freezing the filled but unbaked jalapenos. Place them on a baking sheet in the freezer until solid and then transfer them to a zip-top bag. They can be baked straight from frozen; just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time, keeping an eye on them until the tops are golden brown.

Serving Suggestions

These poppers are always a crowd-pleaser and can be served with a variety of dipping sauces. A cool ranch or a zesty sour cream dip can help temper the heat, while a homemade chipotle aioli offers a smoky flavor that complements the jalapenos beautifully. Serve them on a platter with some fresh vegetables for crunch and a pop of color.

For a fun twist, consider presenting the poppers alongside cocktail toothpicks and a selection of different dips, allowing guests to choose their favorites. Adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs as a garnish before serving can elevate the presentation while also echoing the fresh flavors in the filling.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your jalapeno poppers are coming out too soggy, it’s often due to excess moisture in the filling or from not baking them long enough. Ensure you’re using properly drained or cooked ingredients, and consider adding a bit more breadcrumbs to absorb moisture. Additionally, bake them until the breadcrumbs are crispy and golden for the best texture.

In case the filling spills out during baking, this can often happen if the jalapenos are overstuffed. Be sure to pack the filling tightly, but don’t overfill them. A gentle spoonful can prevent the mess and keep all the delicious stuffing where it belongs.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these poppers ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the jalapenos and filling a day in advance. Assemble them and store in the fridge until you're ready to bake.

→ How spicy are these jalapenos?

The spice level can vary, so taste a jalapeno first. If you prefer milder poppers, you can remove more of the seeds and membranes.

→ Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

Absolutely! Low-fat cream cheese can be used for a lighter version, and it will still yield delicious results.

→ What can I serve with the poppers?

They pair wonderfully with dipping sauces like ranch or sour cream, and are great appetizers for parties!