Jalapeno Poppers with Feta Cheese

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Feta Cheese
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 poppers
Ingredients: 12 large jalapeno peppers; 8 oz feta cheese, crumbled; 4 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1/4 tsp smoked paprika; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional); Olive oil spray or melted butter for brushing

Highlighted under: Simple Planning

When I first decided to make Jalapeno Poppers, I never anticipated how wonderfully the spicy jalapenos would marry with the tangy feta cheese. The blend of flavors creates a delightful taste experience that surprises and delights. We've been making these for years, perfecting the recipe each time. Whether it's for game day or a casual get-together, these poppers are always a hit. The best part? They're super easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time, making them an excellent appetizer for any occasion!

Created by

Violet Kingsley

Last updated on 2026-01-06T12:45:35.227Z

Trying out different stuffing options for jalapeno poppers has been quite the culinary adventure for me. One day, I stumbled upon pairing jalapenos with feta cheese, and the results were astonishing. The creaminess of the feta balances the heat perfectly, making each bite a flavorful explosion. With a touch of herbs, it becomes a crowd favorite.

To ensure they bake up crispy rather than soggy, I learned to pat the jalapenos dry after halving them. This small step really enhances the texture and keeps the poppers even more enjoyable. I've also experimented with adding spices, but the feta with a hint of garlic stands out as my personal favorite.

        Why You Will Love These Poppers
        The perfect balance of spice and creamy feta
A crowd-pleasing appetizer that disappears quickly
Easy to customize with your favorite herbs and spices

      

Choosing the Right Jalapenos

Selecting the perfect jalapenos is crucial for making these poppers stand out. Look for large, firm peppers with a vibrant green color. They should feel heavy for their size. If you prefer mild poppers, opt for peppers that are slightly duller and not as vibrant; they typically contain less heat. Alternatively, for an extra kick, select peppers that are slightly wrinkled, which usually indicates they are more mature and will have a spicier flavor profile.

To prepare your jalapenos, cutting them in half lengthwise allows for easy stuffing. Removing the seeds and membranes significantly reduces their heat level. If you want a bit more spice, reserve some seeds and mix them into your filling. Just be cautious, as too many seeds can overpower the flavor balance we aim for with the creamy feta cheese.

Crafting the Perfect Filling

The combination of feta and cream cheese in the filling is what gives these poppers their creamy texture and tangy flavor, making them irresistible. Feta cheese provides a salty bite, while cream cheese helps bind the mixture and adds softness. For a lighter version, consider using low-fat cream cheese without sacrificing the taste. If you want to enhance the flavor profile even further, try adding finely chopped herbs like dill or parsley to the mixture.

Mixing the ingredients well until smooth is essential; this ensures an even distribution of flavors. If the filling seems a bit too thick, a splash of milk or a small dollop of sour cream can help achieve the right consistency. This step is key—if your filling is too runny, it may leak out during baking, while overly thick filling can lead to uneven stuffing in the jalapenos.

Baking Tips for Perfectly Crisp Poppers

Baking time is critical for achieving that golden, crispy exterior while keeping the filling nice and creamy. Aim for a temperature of 375°F (190°C), which allows the poppers to cook evenly. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of baking—look for a bubbly texture and slightly browned tops. If the breadcrumbs are not browning enough, a quick broil for 1-2 minutes can add that desired crunch but watch closely to prevent burning.

For the best results, placement on the baking sheet matters. Line your sheet with parchment paper to make transferring the poppers easier without sticking. If making a large batch, ensure there’s enough space between each popper to allow for proper air circulation, which helps achieve that crunchy finish. Once baked, allow the poppers to cool for a couple of minutes before serving; this will help release some heat and allow the flavors to meld beautifully.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to prepare your delicious Jalapeno Poppers with Feta Cheese:

Ingredients

12 large jalapeno peppers
8 oz feta cheese, crumbled
4 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
Olive oil spray or melted butter for brushing

With these ingredients ready, you are all set to make the poppers!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps for delicious jalapeno poppers:

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the jalapenos in half lengthwise, removing the seeds and membranes for less heat. Pat them dry with a paper towel.

Make the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the crumbled feta and cream cheese. Add garlic powder, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Mix until smooth and creamy.

Stuff the Jalapenos

Using a spoon or a piping bag, fill each jalapeno half generously with the cheese mixture.

Add Toppings

If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the filled poppers for a crunchy topping. Lightly spritz with olive oil or brush with melted butter.

Bake the Poppers

Arrange the stuffed jalapenos on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden and bubbly.

Once they are done, allow them to cool slightly before serving.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding diced jalapenos or diced bacon to the filling. You can also try different cheese options such as goat cheese for a tangy twist.

Storage and Make-Ahead Options

If you plan to make these poppers ahead of time, assemble them up to a day in advance and store them, unbaked, in the refrigerator. Cover them tightly with plastic wrap to prevent drying out. When ready to bake, simply remove them from the fridge and pop them into a preheated oven; they may require an additional 5 minutes of cooking time to ensure they heat through fully.

For leftover poppers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through, which helps maintain their crispy texture rather than using a microwave, which can make them soggy.

Experimenting with Variations

These jalapeno poppers are incredibly versatile! You can easily infuse new flavors by swapping out the feta for alternatives like goat cheese or cheddar to change the flavor profile. For a unique twist, consider adding a scoop of prepared pesto or a dollop of gourmet aioli to the filling for an herby, garlicky punch.

For protein lovers, you might incorporate cooked bacon bits into the cheese mixture, providing a savory depth. Alternatively, a sprinkle of your favorite hot sauce into the mixture can amplify the heat and excite your tastebuds, making each popper unique and tailored to your palate.

Serving Suggestions

These jalapeno poppers shine as stand-alone appetizers but can also be paired with delicious dips. A cooling sour cream or yogurt-based dip can balance the heat, while a sweet chili sauce can add contrasting sweetness. For a festive presentation, serve them on a platter garnished with fresh herbs or sliced limes to brighten up the dish.

Incorporating seasonal vegetables or a fresh salad on the side can complement the richness of the poppers. If you’re serving these at a gathering, consider making them a part of a larger spread featuring various dips and snacks for an enticing appetizer table that will impress your guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of cheese?

Absolutely! Cream cheese pairs well, but you can experiment with mozzarella or goat cheese for different flavors.

→ How can I make them less spicy?

Remove all seeds and membranes from the jalapenos before stuffing them; this will significantly reduce the heat.

→ Can I prepare the poppers in advance?

Yes! You can stuff the jalapenos and keep them in the fridge for a few hours before baking.

→ What can I serve with jalapeno poppers?

They go well with ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping. They also pair nicely with a chilled beer.