Jalapeno Poppers with Creamy Spinach Dip

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Creamy Spinach Dip
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 poppers
Ingredients: 12 large jalapenos; 1 cup 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 paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

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I absolutely love making Jalapeno Poppers with Creamy Spinach Dip for gatherings. The combination of spicy jalapenos stuffed with a luscious and cheesy spinach mixture is irresistible! Every bite delivers a delightful crunch followed by a creamy, savory filling that warms the palate. I especially enjoy how easy they are to prepare, making them the perfect appetizer for any occasion, whether it’s a game day or a cozy dinner with friends. Trust me, these poppers will be the star of the table!

Created by

Celia Winterbourne

Last updated on 2026-01-14T00:37:45.043Z

When I first tried my hand at making Jalapeno Poppers, I was blown away by how much flavor a small pepper could hold. I experimented with different fillings, but the creamy spinach mix is hands-down my favorite. It's rich and satisfying without being overly heavy. I often add a touch of garlic to enhance the flavors, and trust me, it makes a significant difference!

One of the key tips I've learned is to deseed the jalapenos thoroughly to control the heat level. You still get that delightful spiciness, but it won't overwhelm the creamy spinach dip. This balance is crucial, especially for guests who may not tolerate too much heat. Each popper is a perfect bite of flavor that I just can't resist!

        Why You'll Love These Poppers
        The perfect blend of spicy and creamy flavors.
Packed with wholesome spinach and cheese goodness.
Great for parties, game days, or a cozy night in.

      

Perfecting the Filling

The filling for these jalapeno poppers plays a crucial role in balancing the heat of the peppers with creamy, rich flavors. Using softened cream cheese is essential as it allows for easy mixing and a smooth texture that clings to each jalapeno half. I recommend bringing it to room temperature before mixing, as this ensures an even distribution of ingredients. Fresh spinach not only adds a vibrant color but also deepens the flavors without overwhelming the spice level.

Don’t shy away from experimenting with the cheese blend! While cheddar and Parmesan create a fantastic flavor profile, feel free to swap in cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for an extra punch. This versatility means you can customize the poppers to your taste and even tailor them for different gatherings, like adding a hint of blue cheese for a bold twist.

Stuffing and Baking Tips

When stuffing the jalapenos, it's important to fill them generously. Pressing the filling in helps prevent it from spilling out during baking, ensuring every bite is loaded with creamy goodness. Using a small spoon or piping bag makes this process much easier. Additionally, pay attention to the size of your jalapenos; if some are significantly larger, consider adjusting the filling quantity accordingly to maintain balance.

Baking at 375°F (190°C) is critical to achieving perfectly tender jalapenos that maintain their shape. Keep an eye on them in the last few minutes of baking to ensure they don’t overcook; a golden brown top and tender texture are ideal indicators that they are ready to come out of the oven. If you prefer an extra crispy topping, you can broil them for the last 2-3 minutes, but watch closely to avoid burning.

Ingredients

For the Poppers

12 large jalapenos
1 cup 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 paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup breadcrumbs

Make sure to prepare all your ingredients before starting!

Instructions

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Carefully slice each jalapeno in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes using a spoon or knife.

Make the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, chopped fresh spinach, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Stuff the Jalapenos

Scoop the filling into each jalapeno half, pressing it gently to fill completely. Once stuffed, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top for an added crunch.

Bake the Poppers

Place the stuffed jalapenos on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the jalapenos are tender and the tops are golden brown.

Allow the poppers to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your flavorful treat!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding cooked bacon or diced tomatoes to the filling.

Serving Suggestions

These jalapeno poppers can serve as an exciting appetizer or a fun party snack. To elevate your presentation, consider serving them on a rustic wooden board alongside dipping sauces like ranch or a zesty yogurt dip. A sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley adds a touch of color and freshness that complements the dish beautifully.

For a heartier option, pair the poppers with a side of hearty salsa or guacamole. The cooling effects of these dips provide a wonderful contrast to the heat of the jalapenos, making each bite even more enjoyable. If you’re serving them at a gathering, I suggest preparing them ahead of time and reheating them in the oven just before your guests arrive to keep them warm and inviting.

Storage and Freezing

If you find yourself with leftovers, these jalapeno poppers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. This method helps to retain their crispy texture, unlike microwaving, which can make them soggy.

For long-term storage, you can freeze the stuffed jalapenos either before or after baking. Lay them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to cook them from frozen, just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time to ensure they’re heated all the way through.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these poppers ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the jalapenos and filling a day in advance, just bake them right before serving.

→ How can I make them spicier?

Leave some seeds in the jalapenos or add hot sauce to the filling for an extra kick!

→ What can I serve with these poppers?

They're fantastic with ranch dip or a creamy avocado dip for a fresh twist.

→ Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes! Just be sure to thaw and drain excess moisture before mixing it into the filling.