Jalapeno Poppers with Creamy Spinach Dip

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Creamy Spinach Dip
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 poppers
Ingredients: 12 large jalapenos; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped; 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 tsp onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; Olive oil spray

Highlighted under: Party Inspiration

I absolutely love making Jalapeno Poppers with Creamy Spinach Dip for gatherings and game days. The perfect blend of spicy jalapenos and a rich, creamy spinach dip makes every bite an experience to savor. Preparing these poppers is surprisingly easy, and I enjoy adding my own twist by adjusting the spice level to match my guests' preferences. The crispy exterior contrasts beautifully with the luscious filling, making these poppers a must-try. Serve them hot for the ultimate crowd-pleaser!

Created by

Tallulah Brooks

Last updated on 2026-01-14T03:54:35.038Z

While developing this recipe, I experimented with various spinach dip fillings and found that blending cream cheese with fresh spinach, garlic, and some spices truly elevates the flavors. I remember the first time I made these; I noticed how quickly they disappeared at the party!

Another tip I discovered is to keep an eye on the jalapenos during cooking; depending on their size, the baking time can vary. Utilize your favorite cheese for an even more personalized flavor, and don't be afraid to adjust the creaminess to suit your taste. Each batch can turn out uniquely delicious!

Why You'll Love These Poppers
Perfect balance of spicy and creamy flavors
Crispy texture that adds a satisfying crunch
Versatile recipe that caters to different spice levels

Perfecting the Filling

The filling for these jalapeno poppers is crucial for achieving the right balance of flavors and textures. The combination of cream cheese and cheddar provides a creamy base, while the Parmesan adds a sharp, nutty flavor that enhances the overall taste. I recommend using freshly grated Parmesan for the best results, as pre-grated varieties can include anti-caking agents that affect melting and flavor. Mix the filling until it is smooth, ensuring even distribution of the spinach and seasonings, which will contribute to a consistent taste in every bite.

It's also important to consider the spinach. Fresh spinach should be thoroughly washed and chopped finely, so it blends seamlessly into the filling. If you're short on time, you can use thawed frozen spinach, but be sure to squeeze out excess moisture; otherwise, the filling can become too watery and prevent the poppers from crisping up in the oven. This step will ensure that your poppers are not only flavorful but also have a delightful texture.

Baking Tips for Crunchy Poppers

To achieve a perfect crispy exterior on your jalapeno poppers, the method of breading is key. After filling the jalapenos, make sure to evenly coat them in breadcrumbs. You can customize the breadcrumbs by mixing in spices or herbs like paprika, cumin, or Italian seasoning for added flavor. A light spray of olive oil over the breadcrumbs before baking will help them brown evenly. For an extra crunch, consider using panko breadcrumbs, which are coarser and will provide a more textured finish.

Baking times can vary based on your oven and the size of your jalapenos, so keep an eye on them. Look for a golden-brown color on the breadcrumbs and a bubbly filling as indicators they are ready. If you find that the poppers are not browning sufficiently, you can switch your oven to broil for the last minute or so—just be sure to watch them closely to prevent burning.

Flavor Variations and Serving Suggestions

While this recipe provides a delicious base, feel free to experiment with different ingredients to tailor the flavors to your liking. For a smoky twist, try adding cooked bacon bits or smoked cheddar to the filling. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider mixing in diced jalapeno or even crushed red pepper flakes. Cheeses like feta or goat cheese can also be introduced for a tangy flavor profile and different texture, giving you endless possibilities to personalize your poppers.

When it comes to serving, these jalapeno poppers shine on their own, but they can also benefit from a dipping sauce. A cool ranch dressing or a zesty salsa complements the heat well. Alternatively, you can whip up a creamy avocado dip for a fresh touch. If you have leftovers, they store well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop them back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 10 minutes, for restoration of crunch.

Ingredients

Gather these delicious ingredients to start your Jalapeno Poppers journey:

For the Jalapeno Poppers

12 large jalapenos
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
Olive oil spray

Now that you have everything, let's make these poppers come to life!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Jalapeno Poppers:

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice each jalapeno in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes. Set aside.

Make the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, chopped spinach, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until thoroughly combined.

Stuff the Jalapenos

Using a spoon or a piping bag, fill each jalapeno half with the creamy spinach mixture. Press gently to ensure the filling is secured.

Coat and Bake

Sprinkle breadcrumbs over the stuffed jalapenos and lightly spray with olive oil. Arrange them on a baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes or until golden and crispy.

Serve and Enjoy

Let the poppers cool slightly before serving. They’re delicious on their own or paired with a dipping sauce of your choice.

Enjoy your creation and share with friends for a delightful experience!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding cooked chorizo or bacon bits to the filling mixture. Additionally, if you prefer a milder flavor, opt for smaller jalapenos or remove more of the seeds. Always taste as you go to achieve your desired seasoning!

Key Techniques for Stuffing

When filling the jalapenos, a piping bag can make the task much easier and cleaner. If you don’t have one, simply cut the corner off a resealable bag and use it to pipe the filling. This approach allows for precision and ensures that you pack the mixture in without making a mess. Be generous with the filling, as it will meld beautifully when baked, creating a delectable pocket of flavor with each bite.

If you find the jalapenos to be particularly spicy, soaking them in a mixture of water and vinegar for about 30 minutes before stuffing can help mellow their heat. This technique draws out some of the capsaicin, the compound that makes them spicy, making them more palatable for those who may be sensitive to spice while still retaining enough kick for flavor.

Storage and Make-Ahead Options

These jalapeno poppers can be made ahead of time, making them ideal for parties and gatherings. After preparing the stuffed jalapenos, you can cover them and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to bake, simply add a few extra minutes to your cooking time if they go into the oven cold. This works well, as it ensures all the flavors meld together perfectly while still providing that fresh, crisp exterior.

If you happen to have leftovers, store the poppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be reheated in the oven or air fryer to restore their crispiness. Alternatively, for longer storage, consider freezing unbaked poppers by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen solid, then transferring them to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for an additional 5-10 minutes, adjusting the time as needed.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute Greek yogurt for half the cream cheese in the filling. This modification will maintain the creaminess while reducing the fat content and adding a slight tang that enhances the flavor. For a vegan alternative, consider using a plant-based cream cheese and nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan, along with your favorite dairy-free cheese in the filling.

In addition to the cheeses, you can include other vegetables like roasted red peppers or artichokes for a different texture and flavor combination. These additions provide both health benefits and variety, making each bite unique. Experimenting with different pepper varieties, such as poblanos for a milder version, can also create a new twist while retaining the fun of stuffing and baking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare these poppers in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the filling and stuff the jalapenos ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake.

→ What can I serve with these poppers?

These poppers pair wonderfully with ranch dressing, sour cream, or a simple salsa for dipping!

→ Are there any vegetarian options?

Absolutely! You can create a vegetarian filling by using only cheese and vegetables, or try adding beans for added protein.

→ How spicy are these poppers?

The spice level can vary based on the jalapenos used. You can choose milder varieties or remove the seeds to reduce the heat.