Jalapeno Poppers with Avocado Cream

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Avocado Cream
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 large jalapenos; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp onion powder; 1/2 tsp smoked paprika; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 12 slices of bacon, cut in half; 2 ripe avocados; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1 lime, juiced; 1 clove garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Cultural World Food Favorites

I absolutely love making Jalapeno Poppers with Avocado Cream for gatherings or a cozy night in. The spicy jalapenos combined with a cool and creamy avocado dip create a perfect balance of flavors. The crunch of the poppers as they bake is truly satisfying, and the vibrant colors make them a feast for the eyes. Preparing these poppers is surprisingly easy, and once you try them, you’ll understand why they disappear so quickly. They are always a hit and never fail to impress my friends and family!

Created by

Esme Caldwell

Last updated on 2026-01-06T14:01:34.780Z

When I first decided to make these Jalapeno Poppers, I wanted to create a dish that combined a kick of heat with a refreshing contrast. So, I paired them with a homemade avocado cream that's not only creamy but complements the fiery jalapenos perfectly. I was thrilled with how simple it was to make the filling using just cream cheese and spices, ensuring maximum flavor with minimal fuss.

The secret to the perfect texture is to roast the jalapenos before stuffing them. This enhances their flavor and ensures they don’t turn soggy while baking. With a little drizzle of lime juice in the avocado cream, the dip becomes irresistible! Every bite leaves you craving more.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Spicy and savory flavor explosion with a creamy cool finish
Easy to prepare in batches for a crowd or just a cozy night
Freshly made avocado cream takes these poppers to the next level

      

Techniques for Perfectly Stuffed Jalapenos

One of the critical factors for achieving tasty jalapeno poppers is how you prepare the jalapenos themselves. After cutting them in half, you can use a small spoon or a melon baller to efficiently remove the seeds and membranes. This will not only lower the heat but also create a cavity that can hold the cheesy filling well. If you're after a spicier kick, you might want to leave a few seeds in, but remember, they can pack a punch!

When mixing the cheese filling, be sure to bring the cream cheese to room temperature before combining. This makes it easier to mix and ensures a smoother filling. I recommend using a fork or a hand mixer to achieve the desired consistency. The result should be creamy and well-blended, allowing it to adhere better to the jalapeno halves.

Flavor Variations and Ingredient Swaps

While the classic combination of cream cheese and cheddar is delightful, feel free to experiment with different types of cheeses. For a sharper flavor, try incorporating pepper jack or gouda. Additionally, if you're in the mood for something less rich, using a blend of Greek yogurt and cream cheese can lighten the dish while still maintaining creaminess.

If you're serving a crowd with diverse dietary preferences, consider alternative fillings. You can make a vegetarian version by using a mixture of black beans, corn, and spices, thus keeping the essence of the popper while catering to everyone's tastes. Swap out the bacon for turkey bacon or even a plant-based alternative for a lighter touch.

Ingredients

For the Jalapeno Poppers

12 large jalapenos
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
12 slices of bacon, cut in half

For the Avocado Cream

2 ripe avocados
1/2 cup sour cream
1 lime, juiced
1 clove garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds. This helps reduce the heat a little, but if you like it spicy, you can leave some seeds.

Make the Filling

In a bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until well combined.

Stuff the Jalapenos

Spoon the cheese mixture into each jalapeno half and wrap each stuffed jalapeno with half a slice of bacon, securing it with a toothpick if needed.

Bake the Jalapenos

Place the stuffed jalapenos on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and the cheese is bubbly.

Prepare the Avocado Cream

While the poppers are baking, combine the avocados, sour cream, lime juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper in a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth and creamy.

Serve

Once the poppers are done, let them cool slightly before serving with the avocado cream dip. Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding diced jalapenos or diced onions to the cream cheese filling. Also, using different types of cheese can change the flavor profile to suit your taste.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Jalapeno poppers are an excellent make-ahead option, allowing you to prepare them in advance for parties. After assembling the stuffed jalapenos, you can arrange them on a baking sheet and cover them tightly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking; this can enhance the flavors as they meld together overnight.

If you have leftovers, store the cooled poppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them back in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid using the microwave, as this can make the bacon soggy.

Serving Suggestions

These jalapeno poppers serve wonderfully as appetizers, but you can also make them the star of a light meal. Pair them with a crisp salad or some grilled corn to balance the richness of the poppers. For added flair, sprinkle fresh herbs like cilantro or chives over the avocado cream before serving for an extra pop of color and flavor.

To elevate your presentation, consider serving the poppers on a wooden board with various dipping sauces, like a tangy ranch dressing or a spicy sriracha mayo. This not only looks appealing but also allows guests to choose their preferred dipping flavor, enhancing their culinary experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make jalapeno poppers ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare them and refrigerate before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

→ Are jalapeno poppers spicy?

They can be! Removing the seeds and membranes helps reduce the heat significantly, but using larger jalapenos may still pack a punch.

→ Can I bake them instead of frying?

Absolutely! Baking gives the poppers a crispy texture without the added oil that frying requires.

→ What can I use instead of bacon?

You can use turkey bacon, or if you're looking for a vegetarian option, consider using cheese or tofu instead.