Jalapeno Poppers with Spinach Filling

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Spinach Filling
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 poppers
Ingredients: 12 large jalapenos; 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella); 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 tsp onion powder; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp smoked paprika; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)

Highlighted under: Favorite Baking Inspiration

I absolutely love making Jalapeno Poppers with Spinach Filling for parties and casual gatherings. The bold flavors of the jalapenos combined with the creamy spinach create an irresistible appetizer that always gets rave reviews. Each bite offers a delightful kick balanced by the richness of the filling. I enjoy experimenting with the spices in the filling, and I find that adding a hint of garlic really elevates the dish. If you're looking for a crowd-pleaser that's as fun to make as it is to eat, this recipe is a must-try!

Created by

Honoria Blake

Last updated on 2026-01-06T15:13:34.951Z

My journey with Jalapeno Poppers began one summer evening when I craved something spicy yet creamy. I fiddled with the traditional cream cheese filling and decided to incorporate spinach for a fresh twist. The vibrant green adds a pop of color while the spinach helps cut the richness. The result was a deliciously satisfying appetizer that I couldn't get enough of!

In working on this recipe, I discovered that baking the poppers instead of frying them not only made them healthier but also kept the jalapenos delightfully crisp while maintaining the filling's creamy texture. Don’t skip the step of pre-baking the jalapenos; it enhances the flavor tremendously!

        Why You'll Love These Poppers
        Spicy kick from fresh jalapenos
Creamy spinach filling with a burst of flavor
Easy to make and perfect for sharing

      

The Perfect Balance of Spice and Creaminess

Creating the perfect jalapeno popper is all about achieving a harmonious blend of spicy and creamy textures. The natural heat of the jalapenos can sometimes be overpowering, but by carefully removing the seeds and membranes, you can adjust the spice level to your liking. This allows the rich, creamy spinach filling to shine through, delivering a delightful contrast that keeps everyone coming back for more. Trust me, this careful balancing act is what makes these poppers a standout appetizer.

The filling plays a crucial role here; the cream cheese acts as a rich base while the chopped spinach adds a fresh, vibrant element. The shredded cheese adds both flavor and helps bind everything together. If you're feeling adventurous, consider adding a bit of feta or goat cheese for a tangy twist. The key is to ensure every component is well seasoned, enhancing rather than masking the freshness of the spinach.

Tips for Perfectly Baked Poppers

Baking your jalapeno poppers to perfection involves more than just sticking them in the oven. Preheating to 375°F (190°C) is essential to ensure even cooking. You'll want to bake them for about 20-25 minutes, but keep an eye on them; you’re looking for a filling that is bubbly and slightly golden. This visual cue is your best indicator that the poppers are ready to be enjoyed. If you notice that the edges begin to brown too quickly, consider covering them loosely with foil towards the end of the baking time.

If you choose to top your poppers with breadcrumbs, a quick tip is to toast them lightly in a pan before sprinkling on top of the filling. This extra step not only adds flavor but also enhances the crunch factor. If you’re planning to prepare these for a gathering, I recommend baking a test batch first to dial in the cooking time based on your oven. Each oven behaves differently, and a little practice can make a significant difference in the final result.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create these delightful poppers:

Ingredients for Jalapeno Poppers

12 large jalapenos
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)

Make sure to have all your ingredients prepped before starting the cooking process!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Jalapeno Poppers:

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes to reduce the heat, if desired. Place them on a baking sheet, cut side up.

Make the Spinach Filling

In a bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, chopped spinach, shredded cheese, minced garlic, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and smoked paprika until well combined.

Stuff the Jalapenos

Spoon the spinach filling into each jalapeno half generously, and if you like, top with breadcrumbs for added crunch.

Bake the Poppers

Bake the jalapeno poppers in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is bubbly and the jalapenos are tender.

Let the poppers cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, you can add crumbled bacon to the filling. Adjust the jalapeno heat to your liking by keeping or removing the seeds.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

While traditional jalapeno poppers use cream cheese as a base, you can experiment with various options. If you're looking for a lighter alternative, consider using Greek yogurt or cottage cheese, which will offer a similar creaminess with less fat. For a dairy-free version, vegan cream cheese works well and can still provide that satisfying texture and taste. Just ensure to check the seasoning, as some brands tend to have less flavor than regular cream cheese.

In terms of flavor variations, switch up the spices to cater to your palate. Adding some diced jalapenos or other chilis to the filling can bring an extra layer of spice, or consider mixing in ingredients like cooked bacon bits or roasted peppers for a smoky element.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you're planning to make these jalapeno poppers ahead of time, you can prepare the filling and stuff the jalapenos up to two days in advance. Simply store them covered in the refrigerator, and when it's time to bake, pop them directly into the preheated oven. They may need an extra minute or two to cook through if they start off cold from the fridge.

For leftovers, jalapeno poppers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and the filling is bubbly again. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the jalapenos soggy, rather than maintaining that lovely texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these Jalapeno Poppers ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble them ahead of time, cover, and refrigerate until you're ready to bake.

→ What can I substitute for cream cheese?

You can use goat cheese, ricotta cheese, or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative.

→ Are these poppers spicy?

The spice level can vary based on the jalapenos used. Removing the seeds will help reduce the heat.

→ Can I freeze leftover poppers?

Yes! Once baked and cooled, you can freeze them in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven before serving.