Jalapeno Poppers with Mozzarella

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Mozzarella
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 10 fresh jalapenos; 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded; 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup breadcrumbs; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making Jalapeno Poppers with Mozzarella for gatherings and casual get-togethers. These little bites of deliciousness are always a hit, thanks to their perfect combination of spicy jalapenos and creamy mozzarella cheese. When I serve them, the first batch usually disappears in minutes! I've found that balancing the heat of the jalapenos with the rich, gooey cheese makes them incredibly satisfying. Plus, they’re easy to prepare, and you can customize the fillings based on your preferences. Trust me, these poppers are going to be your new favorite appetizer.

Created by

Imogen Price

Last updated on 2026-01-11T23:49:10.496Z

When I first tried making Jalapeno Poppers, I was amazed by how well the flavors blended. The heat from the jalapenos layered with the mild mozzarella creates an irresistible flavor profile. I learned early on that soaking the jalapenos in water before stuffing them helps reduce some of the heat while still keeping that delightful kick. This method ensures everyone can enjoy them without being overwhelmed by spice.

One technique that has worked wonders for me is to grill them instead of baking. Grilling gives them a smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the cheese. Just be careful they don’t fall through the grates—using a grill pan can help with that. Every time I serve these, they’re gone before I know it. They truly make for a perfect appetizer!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy mozzarella cheese that perfectly complements the spicy jalapeno
Great for parties or casual nights in with friends
Stuffed with your choice of ingredients for a personal touch

      

Choosing the Right Jalapenos

Selecting the right jalapenos is crucial for the perfect balance of heat and flavor. Fresh jalapenos should be firm and shiny, with a vibrant green color. For poppers, medium-sized peppers are ideal, as they provide enough space for stuffing while ensuring a good heat level without overwhelming spiciness. If you're sensitive to heat, consider using milder jalapenos or removing all the seeds and membranes, which hold most of the capsaicin.

Don't be afraid to taste a small piece of the jalapeno before preparing your dish. The heat level can vary significantly from one pepper to another. If you want to reduce the heat further, you can soak them in a vinegar solution for about 30 minutes before preparing. This not only reduces the spiciness but also adds a slight tang that can enhance the overall flavor of your poppers.

The Perfect Cheese Filling

For the filling, the combination of mozzarella and cream cheese creates a gooey, creamy texture that contrasts beautifully with the crispy exterior. Mozzarella offers a mild flavor that allows the jalapeno heat to shine through, while cream cheese adds richness and smoothness. You can experiment with adding other cheese varieties, such as sharp cheddar or pepper jack, for an extra kick. Just be sure to maintain a balance since too much flavor can overpower the jalapenos.

If you're feeling adventurous, consider adding chopped fresh herbs, like cilantro or chives, into the cheese mixture for added freshness. Herbs can brighten the flavors and create a more complex taste. Additionally, you could mix in some crumbled bacon or cooked sausage for a savory twist. Just remember to adjust the seasoning accordingly, as these additions can change the overall saltiness of your filling.

Cooking and Serving Suggestions

When cooking the jalapeno poppers, closely monitor them as they grill or bake. The key visual cue is when the cheese starts bubbling and the jalapenos become tender, which typically happens around 10-15 minutes. For grilling, placing the jalapenos cut-side up can help keep the filling from spilling out while allowing the heat to circulate evenly. If using the oven, consider placing them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

For serving, a homemade dipping sauce can elevate your poppers even further. A simple ranch or sour cream dip, possibly combined with a hint of lime and cumin, pairs wonderfully. Additionally, serving them with a salsa verde or a sweet chili sauce can complement the spice of the jalapenos flawlessly. Try garnishing with chopped green onions or fresh cilantro for an appealing presentation that’s sure to impress your guests.

Ingredients

For Jalapeno Poppers

10 fresh jalapenos
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Feel free to customize the stuffing with spices or other cheeses!

Instructions

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat your grill or oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds for less heat.

Make the Filling

In a bowl, mix the mozzarella cheese, cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and season with salt and pepper until combined.

Stuff the Jalapenos

Spoon the cheese mixture into each jalapeno half until it's filled generously.

Add Breadcrumbs

Top each stuffed jalapeno with breadcrumbs for a crunchy finish.

Cook the Poppers

Place jalapenos on the grill or in the oven. Grill for about 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and the jalapenos are tender.

Let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Pro Tips

Serve these poppers with a dipping sauce like ranch or a spicy aioli for an extra kick.

Make-Ahead and Storage

These jalapeno poppers can be made ahead of time, making them a convenient party appetizer. After stuffing the jalapenos, place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and cover them with plastic wrap. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. Just remember to remove them from the fridge about 30 minutes before cooking to ensure even heating.

If you want to prepare them even earlier, consider freezing the stuffed jalapenos. Lay them out on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. Cook them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the grilling or baking time to ensure they're heated through.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common issue with jalapeno poppers is the filling leaking out during cooking. To avoid this, be sure not to overfill the jalapenos, leaving a small space at the top for the cheese to expand. Additionally, ensure the jalapenos are cut evenly for uniform cooking. If you're grilling, consider placing the poppers on a piece of foil to catch any spills.

Another potential problem could be uneven cooking, where some jalapenos are tender while others remain firm. Make sure you arrange the poppers in a single layer without overcrowding them on the grill or baking sheet. If cooking in the oven, rotating the tray halfway through cooking can help promote even browning and cooking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these poppers ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the poppers and refrigerate them before cooking. Just bake them when you're ready to serve!

→ What's the best way to store leftovers?

Store any leftover jalapeno poppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze jalapeno poppers?

Absolutely! You can freeze them before baking. Just thaw and bake when you're ready to eat.

→ What can I use instead of mozzarella?

You can use any cheese you prefer, like cheddar or pepper jack for a spicier kick.