Jalapeno Poppers with Mozzarella

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Mozzarella
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 poppers
Ingredients: 12 fresh jalapenos; 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded; 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup cheddar cheese, shredded; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup breadcrumbs; Olive oil spray

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making Jalapeno Poppers with Mozzarella for parties or just as a tasty snack at home. These cheesy, spicy bites pack a punch with their flavorful filling and crunchy exterior. The blend of creamy mozzarella and spices perfectly complements the heat of the jalapenos, making each bite an explosion of flavor. They are surprisingly easy to make, and I often find myself whipping up a batch whenever I have unexpected guests. Trust me, these poppers are sure to be a hit!

Created by

Diana Brooks

Last updated on 2026-01-13T05:28:15.471Z

When I first tried making Jalapeno Poppers with Mozzarella, I was amazed at how easy it was to create restaurant-quality appetizers at home. The freshness of the jalapenos combined with the gooey mozzarella creates a delightful experience. I learned that using fresh jalapenos gives a better crunch than frozen ones, making each bite more enjoyable.

Another thing that really took these poppers to the next level was the seasoning I added to the cheese mixture. Mixing in a touch of garlic powder and smoked paprika provided a depth of flavor that pairs beautifully with the heat of the peppers. I can't wait for you to try them!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        The perfect balance of spicy and cheesy goodness
Crispy on the outside, melty on the inside
Great for game day or casual gatherings

      

Choosing the Right Jalapenos

Selecting the right jalapenos is crucial for achieving the perfect balance of heat and flavor in your poppers. Look for firm, bright green peppers with a smooth skin; these indicate freshness. Keep in mind that the heat level can vary significantly between individual jalapenos. If you prefer a milder version, choose smaller peppers, as they are often less spicy than their larger counterparts. To test the heat, sample a small piece of the raw pepper before preparing your poppers.

Preparation of the jalapenos is equally important. When cutting the peppers, use a sharp knife to halve them lengthwise, which allows for easy stuffing. I recommend wearing gloves to protect your hands from the oils, which can linger long after washing. After slicing, remove the seeds and membranes thoroughly for reduced heat. If you enjoy a more intense kick, leave some seeds in the mixture to spice things up!

Perfecting the Cheese Filling

The cheese filling is the heart of jalapeno poppers, so choosing high-quality cheese is key. I find that using a blend of mozzarella for melting, cream cheese for creaminess, and sharp cheddar for flavor creates a delightful creamy texture and a rich taste. If you're looking for a dairy-free option, there are vegan cream cheese and cheese alternatives available that can give a similar texture; just ensure they melt well.

Mixing the filling properly ensures an even distribution of flavors. Make sure the cream cheese is softened at room temperature; this will help it mix smoothly with the shredded cheeses. I use a spatula or fork to mash it all together until the mixture is well combined and glossy. A properly blended filling not only enhances flavor but also creates a satisfying mouthfeel in every bite.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients for a perfect mouthful of flavor:

Ingredients

12 fresh jalapenos
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup breadcrumbs
Olive oil spray

Make sure you have everything ready before starting the process!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make the jalapeno poppers:

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes for less heat.

Make the Filling

In a bowl, combine the mozzarella, cream cheese, cheddar, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Stuff the Jalapenos

Fill each jalapeno half generously with the cheese mixture.

Coat with Breadcrumbs

Sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top of each stuffed jalapeno, pressing down slightly to adhere.

Bake

Place the jalapeno poppers on a baking sheet and spray lightly with olive oil. Bake for 15 minutes or until golden brown.

Let them cool for a few minutes before serving!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, try adding cooked bacon bits to the cheese mixture or drizzle some sriracha on top before serving.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftover jalapeno poppers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. They can also be frozen for up to two months. When freezing, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a container; this prevents them from sticking together. To reheat, simply bake them directly from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and the tops are golden.

For a quick reheat, you can also microwave them for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, although this may affect the crispness of the exterior. If you want to restore some of that crunch, I recommend briefly broiling them after microwaving; just keep a close eye to prevent burning.

Serving Suggestions

These jalapeno poppers can be served as an appetizer or as part of a larger spread. Pair them with a creamy dip, such as ranch or blue cheese dressing, which offers a cool contrast to the spicy poppers. Another great option is to drizzle them with a tangy hot sauce for an extra kick and vibrant presentation.

For a fun twist, consider stuffing the jalapeno halves with different flavor combinations. Try adding cooked bacon bits or diced vegetables like bell peppers for added texture and flavor. Another creative variation is to use different types of cheese, such as pepper jack, to introduce even more spice. Experimenting with different fillings keeps this classic appetizer fresh and exciting!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these poppers ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare them a day in advance and store them in the fridge until you're ready to bake.

→ How can I make them spicier?

Leave some of the seeds in the jalapenos or add chopped jalapenos to the cheese filling.

→ Can I freeze the poppers?

Absolutely! Assemble them and freeze before baking. Just bake them from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

→ What can I serve these poppers with?

They pair great with ranch dressing, guacamole, or a spicy salsa for dipping.