Jalapeno Poppers with Cheddar and Chives

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Cheddar and Chives
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 12 fresh jalapenos; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; Bacon bits (optional, for topping)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making Jalapeno Poppers with Cheddar and Chives for gatherings or a cozy night in. The combination of spicy jalapenos and creamy, tangy cheddar fills my kitchen with an irresistible aroma that gets everyone excited. I've experimented with various fillings, but the classic mixture of cream cheese and cheddar, accented with fresh chives, is simply unbeatable. Baking them until golden and crispy keeps the heat in check and makes for a delightful appetizer that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. I can’t recommend it enough!

Created by

Chloe Bennett

Last updated on 2026-01-14T00:49:16.643Z

Making Jalapeno Poppers always brings back fond memories of summer barbecues with family. I remember the first time I made them, the anticipation was palpable as they baked in the oven, filling the air with a mouthwatering scent. I love the way the cheese melts perfectly, creating a satisfying contrast to the jalapeno's heat.

One tip I've found useful is to soak the jalapenos in water before stuffing them. This helps to reduce some of the heat while also ensuring they cook evenly. Whether you're serving them at a party or enjoying them as a snack, these poppers never disappoint!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Spicy kick with a creamy filling that’s deliciously addictive
Easy to make and perfect for any occasion
A fun and interactive dish that your guests will enjoy

      

Perfecting Your Jalapeno Poppers

To achieve the best flavor and texture, choose fresh jalapenos that are firm and glossy. The heat level varies between jalapenos, so if you're unsure about spice tolerance, taste a small piece from the top before deciding how much filling to enjoy. Also, using a spoon to remove the seeds and membranes can help mitigate the spice while ensuring you still get that nice jalapeno flavor. If you prefer more heat, leave some seeds in!

The balance of cream cheese and cheddar is key to achieving a rich and satisfying filling. Cream cheese provides a creamy base that binds the cheddar cheese and chives, while the cheddar adds a sharper flavor. For a variation, consider using pepper jack cheese for an extra kick or a smoky cheese like gouda for a different flavor profile. Just make sure to maintain the proportions, so the consistency remains appropriate for stuffing.

Baking to Perfection

When you bake the stuffed jalapenos, monitor them closely after the 20-minute mark. You’re looking for a bubbly cheese filling with golden edges that signal they are perfectly cooked. If preferred, you can switch to the broiler for the last couple of minutes—just keep an eye on them to avoid burning. This technique enhances browning, giving your poppers a tempting appearance.

Cooling the poppers for a few minutes after baking helps the filling set slightly, making them easier to handle and preventing burns. If you plan to serve them with a dipping sauce, ranch dressing pairs beautifully here and complements the spiciness of the jalapenos. Drizzling a bit on top before serving also adds a nice presentation touch!

Ingredients

For the Jalapeno Poppers

12 fresh jalapenos
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Bacon bits (optional, for topping)

Make sure to wear gloves when handling jalapenos to avoid skin irritation!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Prepare the Jalapenos

Slice the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes using a spoon. Be careful, as the jalapeno oils can be quite intense.

Make the Filling

In a bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, chopped chives, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Stuff the Jalapenos

Using a spoon or a piping bag, fill each jalapeno half with the cheese mixture, packing it in generously.

Bake

Arrange the stuffed jalapenos on the prepared baking sheet. Bake them in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve

Allow the poppers to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy them warm, possibly with a side of ranch dressing!

For an extra kick, consider adding a dash of hot sauce to your cheese mixture!

Pro Tips

If you're looking for a milder version, you can remove more of the seeds and membranes when preparing the jalapenos.

Make-Ahead Tips

Jalapeno poppers can be prepared a day in advance, making them an excellent choice for stress-free entertaining. After preparing and stuffing the jalapenos, cover them with plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake. Just remember to extend the baking time by a few minutes if baking them straight from the fridge to ensure they heat through thoroughly.

If you're considering freezing jalapeno poppers, it's best to do so before baking. Lay them out on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. When you're ready to bake, there’s no need to thaw—add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time, and you’ll have delicious poppers ready to enjoy.

Serving Suggestions

For a party platter, consider serving jalapeno poppers alongside a variety of dips like guacamole, salsa, or a smoky chipotle aioli for added variety and flavor. This not only enhances the taste experience but also encourages guests to mix and match with their favorites. The creamy filling of the poppers pairs wonderfully with fresh or zesty dips, balancing the heat effectively.

If you're a fan of garnishes, try topping the baked jalapeno poppers with a sprinkle of additional chopped chives or a drizzle of hot sauce for an eye-catching and flavorful finish. You could also serve them on a bed of mixed greens to make the dish visually appealing and add a light, crunchy contrast to the creamy filling.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare these ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the jalapeno poppers in advance and store them in the fridge until you're ready to bake.

→ What can I substitute for cheddar cheese?

You can use pepper jack for extra spice or a milder cheese like mozzarella if you prefer.

→ How do I make them spicy?

Leave some of the seeds and membranes intact when prepping the jalapenos to keep the heat.

→ Can I use a different filling?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other ingredients like cooked sausage or different herbs to customize your poppers.