Jalapeño Poppers Recipe: Perfect Appetizer with a Crunchy Twist
If you’re a fan of bold, cheesy flavours with a hint of heat, Jalapeño Poppers are your perfect match.
This classic appetizer features creamy, savoury filling paired with crispy, golden panko breadcrumbs—a must-try for any gathering.
Whether you’re hosting a game day or a casual dinner party, these easy-to-make poppers are guaranteed crowd-pleasers.
What Are Jalapeño Poppers?
Jalapeño Poppers are halved jalapeño peppers stuffed with a rich and creamy filling. This recipe combines cream cheese, cheddar, bacon, and a hint of ranch seasoning for an irresistible flavour.
Topped with buttery panko breadcrumbs, they’re baked to perfection for a crunchy finish. These poppers are not only delicious but also versatile, offering make-ahead and keto-friendly options.
Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Filling:
- 12 jalapeños (approximately 4 inches long)
- 8 oz. cream cheese (softened)
- 1 cup cheddar cheese (shredded)
- 3 tablespoons sour cream (or mayonnaise)
- 2 tablespoons chives (finely diced)
- 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning (optional but recommended)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 4 strips bacon (cooked and finely diced)
For the Topping:
- 1/3 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon butter (melted)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
How to Make Jalapeño Poppers

Step 1: Prepare the Jalapeños
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Wear gloves while handling jalapeños to avoid irritation.
- Slice each jalapeño lengthwise, keeping the stems intact for presentation.
- Remove seeds and membranes using a small spoon or paring knife.
Step 2: Make the Filling
- In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, cheddar, sour cream, chives, ranch seasoning, garlic powder, and diced bacon.
- Mix until smooth and well-blended.
Step 3: Fill and Top the Jalapeños
- Using a spoon or butter spreader, fill each jalapeño with the prepared mixture.
- In a separate bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and garlic powder. Dip the filled side of each jalapeño into the breadcrumb mixture for an even coating.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
- Arrange the jalapeños on a light-coloured baking sheet.
- Bake for 18–20 minutes or until the topping turns golden brown.
- For an extra-crispy top, broil for an additional minute. Let cool slightly before serving.

Tips for Perfect Jalapeño Poppers
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 175°C (350°F) oven for 10 minutes.
- Freeze: Assemble without the panko topping, freeze for up to 3 months, then bake after thawing.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Assemble up to 2 days in advance, leaving off the topping until just before baking.
Customisation Ideas
- Keto Alternative: Replace panko with crushed pork rinds.
- Cheese Variety: Mix cheddar with Monterey Jack or white cheddar for extra flavour.

Why These Jalapeño Poppers Stand Out
The secret ingredient, ranch seasoning, elevates this classic recipe to a whole new level.
The combination of creamy filling, savoury bacon, and crunchy topping creates a perfect balance of textures and flavours. Whether served as a starter or a snack, these poppers are sure to impress.
FAQs About Jalapeño Poppers
How spicy are jalapeño poppers?
The spice level depends on how thoroughly you remove the seeds and membranes. For milder poppers, clean out the peppers completely.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, feel free to experiment with cheeses like Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack for a unique twist.
What can I use instead of sour cream?
You can substitute sour cream with mayonnaise or Greek yoghurt for a similar creamy texture.
How do I make these vegetarian?
Omit the bacon and add diced mushrooms or spinach for a vegetarian-friendly version.
Can I air-fry jalapeño poppers?
Yes, cook them in a preheated air fryer at 180°C (360°F) for 10–12 minutes for a crispier result.
Reference Links
- Jalapeño Nutrition Facts
- Benefits of Capsaicin
- Cheddar Cheese Varieties
- How to Handle Hot Peppers Safely
- Keto-Friendly Ingredients
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