Jalapeno Poppers with Savory Crumb Topping

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Savory Crumb Topping
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 poppers
Ingredients: 12 fresh jalapenos, halved and seeded; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 2 tbsp melted butter; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1/2 tsp paprika; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making Jalapeno Poppers with Savory Crumb Topping because they strike the perfect balance between spicy and savory. Whenever I'm hosting friends or family, these poppers always steal the show! The creamy cheese filling is complemented by a crispy topping that adds a delightful crunch. With just the right kick from the jalapenos, every bite is a burst of flavor. Plus, they are surprisingly easy to whip up and make for a fun appetizer to serve at any gathering.

Created by

Talia Preston

Last updated on 2026-01-12T00:58:09.479Z

When I first attempted making Jalapeno Poppers, I was amazed at how simple they are yet pack such a punch. After some experimentation, I found that mixing cream cheese with cheddar adds a rich flavor that beautifully complements the heat of the peppers. Each time I make these, I take extra care to ensure the jalapenos are deseeded properly, which makes all the difference in achieving the right level of heat for everyone to enjoy.

Another tip I can’t stress enough is using fresh ingredients. Whenever possible, I opt for homemade breadcrumbs mixed with herbs and spices for the topping. This little extra step elevates the dish from ordinary to extraordinary, guaranteeing a crispy finish that contrasts deliciously with the creamy filling. Trust me, your guests will be begging for the recipe!

        Why You'll Love These Poppers
        Bursting with flavor from spicy jalapenos and creamy cheese
Crunchy topping adds an irresistible texture
Perfect for parties, game days, or snack attacks

      

Perfecting the Jalapeno Filling

To achieve the ideal creamy texture in your jalapeno filling, ensure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature. This will make blending it with the shredded cheddar and spices effortless, creating a smooth mixture that is easy to spoon into the jalapenos. If you're in a hurry, microwave the cream cheese in short bursts (10-15 seconds) until soft, but be careful not to overheat it, as this can affect the final creaminess.

The combination of garlic powder and onion powder in the filling is crucial for building a flavorful base. These spices enhance the richness of the cheese while the jalapenos provide the heat. Adjust the amounts to suit your taste; if you prefer a spicier kick, feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper or even some chopped fresh jalapenos for an extra punch.

Achieving the Ultimate Crumb Topping

The crumb topping is what sets these poppers apart from traditional stuffed jalapenos. The combination of breadcrumbs, melted butter, and seasonings adds a satisfying crunch. Use panko breadcrumbs if you want an extra crispy texture—this type of breadcrumb remains lighter and crispier than traditional ones after baking. Make sure to thoroughly mix the crumbs with melted butter for an even coating that will toast beautifully in the oven.

Adding grated Parmesan cheese to the crumb mixture not only enhances the flavor but also contributes to a deeper golden color when baked. Monitor your poppers in the final minutes of baking; they’re ready when the topping turns golden brown and the cheese begins to bubble slightly. This visual cue helps prevent overcooking while ensuring a perfect texture.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to get started:

For the Jalapeno Poppers

12 fresh jalapenos, halved and seeded
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Crumb Topping

1 cup breadcrumbs
2 tbsp melted butter
1 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp paprika
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a delicious outcome:

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds. Set aside.

Make the Filling

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

Stuff the Jalapenos

Spoon the cheese mixture into each jalapeno half generously, filling them to the top.

Prepare the Crumb Topping

In another bowl, combine breadcrumbs, melted butter, oregano, paprika, and Parmesan cheese. Mix until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated.

Assemble and Bake

Place the stuffed jalapenos on a baking sheet and sprinkle the crumb topping over each one. Bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown.

Serve and Enjoy

Remove from oven and let them cool slightly. Serve warm and watch your guests devour each popper!

Enjoy your delicious jalapeno poppers!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding crumbled bacon to the cheese filling or using pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar.

Storing and Reheating

These Jalapeno Poppers can be made ahead of time! After assembling, cover them tightly with plastic wrap or foil and store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When you're ready to serve them, simply pop them into a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until heated through and the topping is golden.

Leftover poppers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This method helps maintain their crispiness compared to using a microwave, which can make the topping soggy and the cheese rubbery.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

These poppers pair beautifully with various dips! Consider serving them with a cooling ranch or blue cheese dressing to balance out the heat from the jalapenos. Alternatively, a creamy avocado dip can add a fresh and vibrant twist. They also make a fantastic addition to a larger appetizer platter alongside salsa, guacamole, and tortilla chips for a festive gathering.

For a fun twist, you can modify the filling by incorporating cooked chorizo or bacon bits for an extra layer of flavor. Additionally, experimenting with different types of cheese, such as pepper jack or gouda, can create unique flavor profiles. Just remember to keep the moisture balance in check to ensure the filling doesn’t become too runny.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare these jalapeno poppers ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble them and refrigerate before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if they're coming straight from the fridge.

→ What can I serve with jalapeno poppers?

They pair wonderfully with dipping sauces like ranch, sour cream, or even a tangy barbecue sauce.

→ How can I reduce the heat of the jalapeno poppers?

To reduce the heat, ensure to completely remove all the seeds and inner membranes of the jalapenos. You can also try using milder peppers like Anaheim.

→ Can I freeze leftover jalapeno poppers?

Yes, you can freeze them! Just make sure to freeze them unbaked. When ready to eat, bake them directly from the freezer, adding extra time as needed.