Jalapeno Poppers with Mozzarella

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Mozzarella
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 pieces
Ingredients: 12 large jalapenos; 8 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded; 4 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil spray

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely adore making Jalapeno Poppers with Mozzarella, a dish that never fails to impress at gatherings. When you bite into these cheesy, spicy delights, you're met with a burst of flavor that keeps everyone coming back for more. The creamy mozzarella is perfectly balanced with the heat from the jalapenos, making each pop a taste sensation. I've experimented with various fillings, but this combination always wins hearts. Serve them hot, and watch your guests devour these irresistible treats in no time!

Created by

Noelle Chambers

Last updated on 2026-01-12T01:16:09.839Z

Making these Jalapeno Poppers with Mozzarella has turned into a cherished tradition in my household. The first time I made them, I was amazed at how the smoky, spicy notes of the jalapeno complemented the rich creaminess of the mozzarella. It was, quite frankly, a flavor revelation!

I learned that baking the poppers instead of frying allows the flavors to shine without the extra oiliness. Adding a sprinkle of breadcrumbs on top adds a delightful crunch. Trust me, these poppers are the life of any party!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A delightful balance of creamy mozzarella and spicy jalapeno
Baked for a healthier twist without sacrificing flavor
Perfect for game days, parties, or as a snack
Easily customizable to suit your taste preferences

      

Ingredient Insights

The centerpiece of Jalapeno Poppers is undoubtedly the filling, where mozzarella and cream cheese create a luxurious, creamy texture. The mozzarella adds stretchiness that enhances the overall mouthfeel, while cream cheese brings a tangy balance. If you want a stronger cheese flavor, consider substituting half of the mozzarella with sharp cheddar. This will introduce a rich depth but may slightly alter the gooey texture that’s so delightful.

Jalapenos are key not just for their heat but also for their crunchy texture. When selecting jalapenos, look for firm, glossy peppers with no blemishes. The smaller the pepper, often the hotter it is, but for a milder experience, opt for larger jalapenos. Adjust the filling according to your taste; adding diced roasted red peppers or herbs can create an exciting twist on the traditional flavor profile.

Techniques for Success

When preparing the jalapenos, it’s important to use gloves if you're sensitive to spice. Removing the seeds and membranes significantly reduces the heat but still retains enough flavor for a balanced dish. If you mistakenly cut too deeply, it’s a good idea to have some additional cream cheese mixture to patch any holes, ensuring that the filling doesn’t leak out during baking.

Baking the Jalapeno Poppers rather than frying not only keeps them lighter but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. To achieve that crispy breadcrumb topping, make sure to spray the poppers lightly with olive oil before baking; this will help them brown evenly. Keep an eye on them in the oven; you want the breadcrumbs golden brown and the cheese to be bubbling for the best textural contrast.

Ingredients

For the Jalapeno Poppers

12 large jalapenos
8 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
4 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup breadcrumbs
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil spray

Ensure you wear gloves while handling jalapenos to avoid irritation.

Instructions

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 flavor. If you prefer extra heat, you can leave some seeds in.

Make the Filling

In a bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella, cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Stuff the Jalapenos

Spoon the cheese mixture into each halved jalapeno. Press down gently to pack the filling and then sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for extra crunch.

Bake the Poppers

Arrange the stuffed jalapenos on a baking sheet and spray lightly with olive oil. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and the breadcrumbs are golden.

Serve

Allow the poppers to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy them hot as a delicious appetizer or snack!

These poppers are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

Pro Tips

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

Storing and Reheating

If you find yourself with leftover Jalapeno Poppers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheating is simple; just pop them back in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until they regain their crispiness. Avoid the microwave, as it can turn the breadcrumb topping soggy and dull.

For longer storage, consider freezing the poppers before baking. Place the stuffed and breadcrumbed jalapenos on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be baked straight from frozen, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time. This makes it easy to serve fresh, hot poppers on demand!

Serving Suggestions

These Jalapeno Poppers shine as an appetizer, but they can also work wonderfully as a main dish when paired with a nice salad or guacamole. For added freshness, consider serving them with a cooling dipping sauce made from sour cream mixed with lime juice and cilantro, which contrasts beautifully with their spiciness.

To elevate your poppers, consider drizzling them with a balsamic glaze after baking for a touch of sweetness that complements the savory filling. You can also sprinkle some chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley on top right before serving to add a pop of color and freshness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these jalapeno poppers ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare them up to an hour in advance and refrigerate before baking.

→ What if I don't have mozzarella cheese?

You can substitute with cheddar or any cheese of your choice.

→ Are these poppers spicy?

They have a mild to moderate heat level. Removing the seeds and membranes reduces the spice.

→ Can I freeze the stuffed jalapenos?

Yes, you can freeze the stuffed jalapenos before baking. Just thaw and bake when ready to eat!