Jalapeno Poppers with Mozzarella and Herbs

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Mozzarella and Herbs
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 fresh jalapenos, halved and seeded; 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded; 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper, to taste; Breadcrumbs, for topping (optional)

Highlighted under: Creative Baking Recipes

I absolutely love making Jalapeno Poppers with Mozzarella and Herbs for gatherings or even just a cozy night in. These spicy little bites are not only bursting with flavor but also super easy to prepare. The combination of creamy mozzarella and fresh herbs takes the classic popper to a whole new level. I usually pair them with a tangy dip that complements the heat and creaminess perfectly. Trust me, once you try them, you'll keep coming back for more!

Created by

Florence Keaton

Last updated on 2026-01-14T02:37:35.064Z

When I first discovered Jalapeno Poppers, I was instantly hooked. The combination of the spicy jalapenos and the creamy filling struck me as a match made in heaven. I experimented with various cheeses, but I found that mozzarella is the perfect choice for its melty texture and mild flavor that balances the heat of the peppers.

What really elevates these poppers is the addition of fresh herbs. I recommend using a mix of parsley and chives, which not only add a lovely freshness but also enhance the overall flavor profile. Baking them instead of frying is a game changer, allowing for a crispy exterior while keeping the filling deliciously gooey.

        Why You'll Love These Jalapeno Poppers
        The perfect balance of spice and creaminess.
Fresh herbs add a delightful twist to the classic recipe.
Easy to make and always a hit at gatherings.

      

Mastering the Cheese Filling

When making the filling for your jalapeno poppers, the blend of mozzarella and cream cheese is crucial for creating a creamy texture that complements the spice of the jalapenos. Mozzarella provides that gooey stretchiness, while cream cheese gives it a rich, velvety consistency. Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature to ensure a smooth mix; otherwise, you may end up with lumps that won't spread easily.

Incorporating fresh herbs like parsley and chives not only brightens the flavor but also adds a pop of color to your poppers. Herb choices can be flexible; for a bolder flavor, consider adding a hint of cilantro or even a sprinkle of smoked paprika to the filling. Remember to adjust the amount of salt based on the saltiness of your cheeses, ensuring a well-rounded flavor.

Perfecting the Baking Technique

Baking jalapeno poppers requires balancing the heat so they cook through without becoming too soft or losing their shape. When you place the stuffed jalapenos on a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensure they have some space between them; this promotes even cooking and helps achieve that crispy topping if you decide to use breadcrumbs. Watch for the cheese to bubble and begin to slightly brown, which generally takes about 15 minutes at 400°F (200°C).

For an extra layer of flavor, consider broiling the poppers for the last minute or two of baking. Just keep a close eye on them, as they can go from perfectly golden to burned very quickly. If you prefer a crunchier texture, opt for panko breadcrumbs, which are lighter and crisp up better than traditional breadcrumbs.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make these delicious Jalapeno Poppers:

Ingredients

12 fresh jalapenos, halved and seeded
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
Breadcrumbs, for topping (optional)

Prepare your ingredients as instructed, and you're ready to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create mouthwatering Jalapeno Poppers:

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes. This will help reduce the heat and make them more palatable.

Make the Filling

In a bowl, combine the mozzarella cheese, cream cheese, parsley, chives, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Stuff the Jalapenos

Spoon the cheese mixture into each jalapeno half, ensuring they are generously filled. If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for added crunch.

Bake

Place the stuffed jalapenos on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the jalapenos have softened.

Serve

Allow the poppers to cool slightly before serving. Pair with a dipping sauce of your choice for an extra flavor kick!

Enjoy your homemade Jalapeno Poppers with Mozzarella and Herbs!

Pro Tips

For a spicier kick, leave some seeds in the jalapenos. If you're trying to cut down on carbs, you can skip the breadcrumbs entirely.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, jalapeno poppers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake them for about 10 minutes to reheat. If they seem dry, spritzing them lightly with cooking spray can help retain moisture during reheating.

For longer storage, you can freeze the assembled, unbaked poppers. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Bake directly from the freezer at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes; just ensure they are fully cooked through before serving.

Serving Ideas

Pairing your jalapeno poppers with the right dipping sauce can elevate them further. A tangy ranch dressing or a zesty cilantro-lime crema creates a refreshing balance against the heat of the jalapenos. For those who prefer a punchier flavor, a homemade buffalo sauce or a creamy sriracha dip works wonders, enhancing the overall experience.

You can also get creative with serving options. Plating the poppers on a bed of mixed greens not only looks beautiful but also adds a fresh crunch that complements the creamy filling. Including a variety of dipping sauces can make it a fun tasting experience, perfect for gatherings or game day snacking!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare these poppers in advance?

Yes! You can stuff the jalapenos a few hours ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you are ready to bake.

→ What other cheeses can I use?

Feel free to experiment with cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for a different flavor.

→ Are these poppers suitable for freezing?

Definitely! Just freeze them before baking and bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

→ What's a good dip for jalapeno poppers?

A simple sour cream and chive dip works great to complement the heat and creaminess!