Jalapeno Poppers with Mozzarella

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Mozzarella
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 poppers
Ingredients: 12 large jalapenos; 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded; 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened; 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon onion powder; 1/4 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; Salt and pepper to taste; Cooking spray or olive oil for drizzling

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I can’t get enough of these Jalapeno Poppers with Mozzarella! They have quickly become my go-to appetizer for gatherings, game days, or even a cozy night in. The combination of spicy jalapenos and creamy mozzarella creates an explosion of flavor that’s simply irresistible. I love pairing these with a tangy dipping sauce, which perfectly complements their warmth and spice. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to make - even for a novice cook. I’m excited to share this recipe with you!

Created by

Lucy Price

Last updated on 2026-01-12T00:10:09.456Z

When I first tried making jalapeno poppers, I was amazed at how easily they came together and how much flavor they packed. I decided to stuff them with creamy mozzarella instead of the traditional cheddar, and the result was heavenly! The mozzarella melts beautifully, creating a gooey filling that contrasts perfectly with the crunchy exterior.

One of my best tips is to use fresh jalapenos for a vibrant flavor and to adjust the spice level by choosing larger or smaller peppers. The result is a delightful blend of heat and cheesy goodness that always leaves my guests asking for the recipe!

        Why You'll Love These Poppers
        Spicy jalapenos filled with gooey mozzarella cheese
Crispy, golden exterior that adds texture
Perfect for parties, movie nights, or a snack attack

      

Choosing the Right Jalapenos

Selecting the perfect jalapenos is crucial for your poppers. Look for firm, bright green peppers that are free of blemishes. The size also matters; larger jalapenos provide more filling space, but keep in mind that they tend to be milder. If you enjoy heat, opt for smaller, slightly wrinkled peppers which are often spicier. Remember, if the heat is too intense for your taste, removing the seeds and membranes will significantly reduce the spice level while still allowing those vibrant flavors to shine.

Jalapenos can vary in heat from one pepper to another, so it's wise to taste a small piece before committing to your dish. If you’re looking for a milder alternative, consider using banana peppers or even mini sweet peppers, which offer a similar shape without the intense heat. This way, everyone at your gathering can enjoy the poppers!

The Importance of the Cheese Blend

The choice of cheese greatly influences the flavor and texture of your jalapeno poppers. While mozzarella provides a creamy, melted consistency, combining it with cream cheese elevates the richness and helps bind the filling. This combination ensures a gooey interior that contrasts beautifully with the crispy breadcrumb topping. Feel free to experiment with other cheese options such as cheddar or pepper jack for an extra kick, but keep mozzarella as your base for that perfect meltiness.

When mixing your cheese filling, it's important to ensure that both the mozzarella and cream cheese are at room temperature. This makes for easier blending and allows for a smooth, cohesive filling. If you have any leftover filling, it can be spread onto crackers or used as a dip for fresh veggies—nothing goes to waste!

Perfecting Your Baking Technique

Baking these poppers to perfection requires attention to both time and temperature. Preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) is essential for achieving that golden, crispy exterior. If you find that the breadcrumbs aren’t browning to your liking, feel free to extend the baking time by a couple of minutes, but keep a close eye on them to avoid burning. The cheese should be bubbling and the breadcrumbs should be a vibrant golden brown when they're done.

For an extra level of crispiness, consider broiling the poppers for the last 1-2 minutes of baking. Just be sure to watch them closely during this step to prevent them from burning. Letting the poppers cool for a few minutes before serving will help the cheese set, making them easier to handle and helping the filling stay intact when you take a bite.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your delicious Jalapeno Poppers:

Ingredients

12 large jalapenos
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon paprika
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking spray or olive oil for drizzling

Check your kitchen to make sure you have everything ready to go!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Jalapeno Poppers:

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Carefully slice the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes for less heat if desired.

Make the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the mozzarella, cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well until fully combined.

Stuff the Jalapenos

Spoon the cheese mixture into each jalapeno half, making sure to pack it in generously.

Coat with Breadcrumbs

Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the stuffed jalapenos to create a crispy topping. Drizzle with olive oil or spray lightly with cooking spray to help them crisp up.

Bake

Arrange the poppers on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.

Serve

Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce!

Enjoy your delicious jalapeno poppers!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding chorizo or bacon to the cheese filling. You can also experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack for added flavor.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you’re looking to make your jalapeno poppers ahead of time, consider preparing them and storing them uncooked in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just make sure to cover them well to prevent them from drying out. When ready to bake, you can either cook them straight from the fridge or let them come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking for even cooking.

Cooked jalapeno poppers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat them, place them in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. This method helps maintain that crispy texture you desire.

Serving Suggestions

These jalapeno poppers pair wonderfully with a variety of dipping sauces. A classic ranch or blue cheese dressing complements their spiciness beautifully. For a zesty touch, consider mixing sour cream with lime juice and chopped cilantro. This adds a refreshing element that balances the heat perfectly.

Additionally, you can serve them with a side of salsa or guacamole for an extra layer of flavor. For those who enjoy a kick, try a spicy BBQ sauce. The versatility of these poppers makes them suitable for any occasion, ensuring every bite is full of excitement.

Variations and Creative Twists

Don’t hesitate to get creative with your jalapeno popper filling! Adding cooked bacon or chorizo can provide a savory depth that many will love. Alternatively, for a vegetarian version, consider incorporating diced bell peppers or corn into the cheese mixture for added texture and flavor.

You can also experiment with different spice levels by incorporating diced jalapenos into the filling for an extra kick. If you prefer a sweet-savory combination, try adding a touch of honey or maple syrup to the filling, complementing the heat of the jalapenos beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these poppers ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the jalapenos and filling ahead of time, then just bake them when you're ready to serve.

→ How can I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I use other types of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, such as cheddar or pepper jack, to suit your taste.

→ What if I want them spicier?

To increase the heat, leave some seeds in the jalapenos or use smaller jalapenos, which tend to be spicier.