Jalapeno Poppers with Garlic Mozzarella

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Garlic Mozzarella
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12 poppers
Ingredients: 12 fresh jalapenos; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup breadcrumbs; Olive oil spray

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love making Jalapeno Poppers with Garlic Mozzarella for gatherings and family dinners. The combination of crispy, spicy jalapenos and creamy, garlicky cheese creates a fantastic flavor contrast that is simply irresistible. What I enjoy the most is how easy they are to prepare—just a handful of ingredients and a little time in the oven, and you'll have a crowd-pleasing appetizer ready to serve. Whether it's for game day or a cozy night in, these poppers always hit the spot!

Created by

Ariana Brooks

Last updated on 2026-01-14T01:43:18.035Z

When I first tried making Jalapeno Poppers, I was amazed at how simple yet delicious they were. I experimented with adding garlic to the mozzarella filling, which elevated the dish to another level. The rich, creamy texture pairs beautifully with the spicy kick from the jalapenos.

An important tip I learned is to soak the jalapenos in water for a few minutes before stuffing them. This helps to reduce their heat slightly while still maintaining that signature spiciness. Trust me, it makes a difference!

        Why You'll Love These Poppers
        Irresistibly creamy garlic mozzarella filling
Perfectly balanced spice with a crispy exterior
Easily customizable with your favorite herbs and spices

      

Mastering the Jalapeno Poppers

To achieve the perfect balance of flavor and heat, selecting the right jalapenos is key. Look for firm, unblemished peppers with a vibrant green color. Smaller peppers tend to be spicier, while larger ones can be milder. If you prefer less heat, removing the seeds and membranes is essential; a small spoon or melon baller works well for this task. This step not only tones down the spice but also allows for more of the creamy filling to shine through.

The combination of cream cheese and mozzarella yields a wonderfully creamy filling that melts beautifully during baking. Cream cheese provides a tangy base, enhancing the overall flavor, while the mozzarella adds stretch and that cheesy pull we all adore. Keep both cheeses at room temperature before mixing; this ensures a smooth texture that is easier to fill into the jalapenos. If you want to try a twist, consider incorporating a bit of shredded cheddar for an extra layer of flavor!

Breading and Baking Tips

Coating your stuffed jalapenos in breadcrumbs adds a delightful crunch that contrasts with the creamy filling. For the best results, use panko breadcrumbs, as they are flakier and give a lighter, crispier finish. If you're aiming for a gluten-free option, try almond flour or crushed cornflakes as substitutes. Just remember to season your breadcrumbs with a pinch of salt or spices to add an extra kick to the exterior.

When it comes to baking, ensure your oven is fully preheated to 375°F (190°C) for even cooking. This temperature is ideal for creating a golden-brown crust without overcooking the jalapenos. If you're not sure whether they’re done, look for a light browning on the breadcrumbs and a tender but not mushy pepper. Overbaking can lead to a loss of that satisfying crunch, so keep an eye on them in the last few minutes!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for an amazing appetizer:

Ingredients

12 fresh jalapenos
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup breadcrumbs
Olive oil spray

Make sure to have all ingredients ready before you start cooking. It makes the process much smoother!

Instructions

Here's how to put these delicious poppers together:

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove seeds and membranes for a milder flavor.

Make the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella, cream cheese, minced garlic, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.

Stuff the Jalapenos

Using a spoon or a piping bag, fill each jalapeno half with the cheese mixture. Make sure to pack it in well.

Coat with Breadcrumbs

Roll the filled jalapenos in breadcrumbs, then place them on a baking sheet. Lightly spray with olive oil to help them brown.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the jalapenos are tender and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.

Serve

Let the jalapeno poppers cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious appetizer!

Serve these poppers warm for the best experience. They're sure to disappear quickly!

Pro Tips

Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese or add some bacon bits to the filling for extra flavor.

Storage and Make-Ahead Options

Jalapeno poppers can be prepared in advance, making them a convenient option for busy schedules. You can stuff the jalapenos and coat them in breadcrumbs a few hours ahead of time. Just cover them tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. This lets the flavors meld together, enhancing their taste. If you're prepping them the night before, consider baking them within 24 hours for the best quality.

Leftover jalapeno poppers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, place them on a baking sheet and heat in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10-15 minutes, which helps maintain their crispiness. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.

Serving Ideas and Variations

Serve your jalapeno poppers warm, accompanied by dipping sauces like ranch, blue cheese, or a spicy sriracha mayo. These sauces complement the richness of the cheese while adding a new flavor dimension. For added flair, consider drizzling balsamic glaze over the poppers before serving for a sweet contrast to the heat.

For variations, feel free to experiment with different cheeses or mix in various ingredients like chopped bacon, green onions, or even crumbled feta to the filling. You can also substitute jalapenos with other peppers like mini sweet peppers for a milder, colorful version of this dish—perfect for those who prefer a non-spicy option!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these poppers ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the jalapenos and fill them. Just refrigerate and bake them when you’re ready to serve.

→ What can I use instead of mozzarella?

You can substitute mozzarella with any melting cheese like cheddar or pepper jack for a spicier kick.

→ How can I adjust the spiciness?

To reduce the heat, remove all the seeds and membranes from the jalapenos. For more spice, leave some seeds.

→ Can these be made gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to keep this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet.