Jalapeno Poppers with Spinach Filling

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Spinach Filling
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 poppers
Ingredients: 12 large jalapenos; 1 cup cream cheese, softened; 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped; 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup bread crumbs; Olive oil spray

Highlighted under: Modern Baking Favorites

I always look forward to making Jalapeno Poppers with Spinach Filling for gatherings. There’s something exhilarating about the combination of heat from the jalapenos and the creamy, savory spinach filling. I love experimenting with the filling, adding just the right amount of cheese and spices to create a mouthwatering bite. These poppers are not only easy to prepare but also make an impressive appetizer that guests will rave about. Trust me, once you serve these, they will disappear in no time!

Created by

Esme Caldwell

Last updated on 2026-01-06T16:45:36.122Z

Jalapeno Poppers have always been a favorite in my kitchen, especially when I'm hosting a party. I discovered that a blend of cream cheese, spinach, and spices makes the filling extra delightful. The crunchy exterior compliments the creamy interior perfectly, and I love that they can easily be made in advance and popped in the oven right before serving.

One crucial tip I learned is to remove as many seeds and membranes from the jalapenos as possible to control the spice level. It makes a world of difference! I also enjoy experimenting with different cheeses in the filling, so feel free to explore variations that suit your palate.

        Why You'll Love These Jalapeno Poppers
        The perfect balance of spicy and creamy flavors
Easy to customize with your favorite cheeses and spices
Great finger food for parties and gatherings

      

Crafting the Perfect Filling

The filling for these Jalapeno Poppers is the heart of the dish. The cream cheese serves as a rich base, providing a luscious texture that complements the slight crunch of the jalapenos. When mixing in the cheddar cheese, opt for a sharp variety to enhance the flavor profile. The garlic and onion powders add depth, so avoid skipping them; they infuse the filling with aromatic qualities that elevate the overall taste. Be sure to mix thoroughly until the filling is creamy and fully incorporated, which avoids any dry patches.

In addition to spinach, feel free to get creative with other ingredients! Adding cooked bacon or sausage can introduce a savory note, while sun-dried tomatoes could contribute an unexpected sweetness and texture contrast. If you want a little heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeno stems or a dash of your favorite hot sauce into the filling. This makes the dish even more personalized and can showcase different flavor nuances.

Baking and Serving Tips

When baking your stuffed jalapenos, monitoring them closely is key to achieving that perfectly golden exterior. After about 20 minutes in the oven, check for visual cues like bubbling cheese and lightly browned breadcrumbs. If they haven't reached your desired level of crispness, feel free to give them an additional 5 minutes, keeping a watchful eye to prevent burning. This slight additional time can make all the difference in perfecting their texture and flavor.

For serving, these poppers are best enjoyed warm and fresh out of the oven. To enhance the experience, consider serving them with a zesty dipping sauce, like ranch or a bright cilantro-lime crema. These bright flavors contrast nicely with the richness of the poppers. If you have leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, and reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to revive their crunchy texture.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make these delicious Jalapeno Poppers:

Ingredients

12 large jalapenos
1 cup cream cheese, softened
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup bread crumbs
Olive oil spray

Make sure to have fresh ingredients for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your Jalapeno Poppers:

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the jalapenos in half lengthwise and carefully remove the seeds and membranes using a spoon or knife.

Make the Filling

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

Stuff the Jalapenos

Fill each jalapeno half generously with the cream cheese mixture. Press down gently to ensure the filling is secure.

Coat with Bread Crumbs

Sprinkle the tops of the stuffed jalapenos with bread crumbs. Lightly spray with olive oil for extra crunch.

Bake

Arrange the poppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25 minutes, or until the poppers are golden brown and the filling is bubbling.

Let the poppers cool for a few minutes before serving for the best texture!

Pro Tips

For an added kick, consider adding crumbled bacon or jalapeno slices into the filling.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you’re looking to make this recipe dairy-free, substitute the cream cheese with a vegan alternative made from nuts or soy. Nutritional yeast can add a cheesy flavor to mimic the taste of cheddar. When using this variation, remember to test the moisture level of your filling; adding a little almond or coconut milk might help maintain that creamy texture. Also, consider using vegan cheese shreds to maintain the melty quality without animal products.

For those who are gluten-sensitive, you can replace traditional breadcrumbs with crushed gluten-free crackers or panko. These replacements will provide a similar texture while keeping this dish safe for those with dietary restrictions. Alternatively, for a low-carb option, simply omit the breadcrumbs altogether; the poppers will still be satisfying and delicious without them.

Scaling the Recipe

Scaling this recipe for a larger gathering is simple and effective. Just multiply the ingredients according to the number of guests you are expecting. For example, doubling the filling can easily fill 24 jalapenos. You may need to adjust the baking time slightly depending on the size of your baking sheet, ensuring that the poppers are still spaced apart for even cooking. An overcrowded pan can lead to uneven browning and steaming instead of baking.

If you're hosting a smaller gathering, you can easily halve the recipe. I've done this successfully without sacrificing flavor or texture. Just make sure to adjust your baking time down by about 5-10 minutes, keeping a close watch on them to ensure they reach that ideal golden brown finish. This flexibility makes jalapeno poppers a wonderfully versatile appetizer for any get-together.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these poppers ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the jalapenos and filling ahead of time. Assemble them and store in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.

→ What can I substitute for cream cheese?

You can use ricotta cheese or goat cheese as a substitute for a different flavor profile.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover poppers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

→ Can these poppers be frozen?

Yes, you can freeze the assembled poppers before baking. Just make sure to thaw and bake when you're ready to enjoy them.