The Best Jalapeño Poppers & Perfect for Super Bowl & Game Day!

Downshiftology

Video Stats

Channel: Downshiftology
Host: Downshiftology
Published: Jun 21, 2025
Views: 42.9k

Recipe Overview

Prep: 15 min
Cook: 20 min
Difficulty: Intermediate
Serves: 10

Overview

Jalapeño poppers are a classic party snack that never fails to impress. This recipe takes the beloved appetizer to new heights with a creamy filling of softened cream cheese and sharp cheddar, complemented by crispy crumbled bacon. The combination of flavors and textures makes these poppers a must-have for any gathering, especially during the Super Bowl.

The preparation begins with softening the cream cheese, which is essential for easy mixing. Once combined with the cheese and bacon, the filling is spooned into halved jalapeños, ensuring not to overstuff them to prevent a messy bake. The result is a delightful balance of spicy, cheesy, and savory goodness that is hard to resist.

Baking the poppers allows for a healthier alternative to frying while still achieving that satisfying crunch. As they bake, the aroma fills the kitchen, making it nearly impossible to wait until they cool down before indulging. These poppers are not just a snack; they are a crowd-pleaser that will disappear quickly at any event.

For those who might have leftover filling, it can be used creatively in scrambled eggs or as a topping for baked potatoes, ensuring nothing goes to waste. This versatility, combined with the ease of preparation, makes jalapeño poppers a fantastic addition to your recipe repertoire.

Recipe Details

Steps & Tips

1
00:38

Put eight ounces of cream cheese in a bowl at room temperature.

00:44

Tip: Let cream cheese soften at room temperature for easier mixing.

01:03

Tip: Bake bacon separately for even crispiness.

2
01:08

Bake six slices of bacon in the oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 15 to 18 minutes.

3
01:31

Slice 10 large jalapeno peppers in half and scoop out the seeds and membrane.

02:03

Tip: Wash hands with soap and water after handling jalapenos to avoid irritation.

4
02:05

Lay the halved jalapeno peppers on a baking sheet.

5
02:10

Grate 1 1/2 cups of cheddar cheese and set aside.

6
02:31

Transfer cooked bacon to a paper towel to drain excess grease.

7
02:43

In a bowl, combine softened cream cheese, grated cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, thinly-sliced chives, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.

03:09

Tip: If cream cheese is too firm, microwave in five-second increments to soften.

8
03:20

Use a small spoon to fill each jalapeno half with the cheese mixture.

03:25

Tip: Keep filling level with the peppers to prevent spillage during baking.

04:04

Tip: Use leftover filling in scrambled eggs or on baked potatoes to avoid waste.

9
04:09

Bake the filled jalapeno peppers in a 400-degree Fahrenheit oven for 15 to 20 minutes.

10
04:29

Crumble extra bacon on top and garnish with sliced chives before serving.

Ingredients

Serves: 10
Chives3 tbsp
Garlic2 cloves
Salt1 tsp
Pepper1 tsp
Allergen Alerts

Ingredient: Dairy

    → Substitution: Almond Milk

Ingredient: Eggs

    → Substitution: Flaxseed Meal + Water

Nutrition

Calories
300
kcal per serving
Protein
12
per serving
Carbs
10
per serving

Skill Level

Skill Level Intermediate
Beginner Intermediate Advanced

Frequently asked questions

Below you will find answers to the most common questions about this recipe.

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Interesting Tidbits

  • Jalapeño poppers can be made with various fillings, but this recipe uses a creamy mixture of cream cheese and cheddar.
  • Baking the bacon separately ensures it becomes crispy before being added to the filling.
  • Removing the seeds and membranes from jalapeños reduces their heat level, making them more palatable.
  • These poppers are a popular choice for game day snacks due to their flavor and finger-food convenience.