Jalapeno Poppers with Cream Cheese and Chives

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Cream Cheese and Chives
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 12 fresh jalapenos; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/4 cup fresh chives, chopped; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp smoked paprika; 12 slices bacon, cut in half

Highlighted under: Basic Quick Meals Collection

I absolutely love making Jalapeno Poppers with Cream Cheese and Chives for gatherings and special occasions. These poppers are a perfect blend of spicy and creamy, and they never fail to impress my friends and family. The smoky flavor from the bacon wrapped around the spicy jalapenos enhances the cream cheese filling, creating a delightful snack that disappears in no time. If you're looking for a finger food that’s both flavorful and easy to make, I promise you’ll enjoy this recipe as much as I do.

Created by

Ophelia Turner

Last updated on 2026-01-05T18:53:35.051Z

As someone who enjoys experimenting with flavors, I was thrilled when I first combined cream cheese with fresh chives and stuffed it into jalapenos. The combination of the heat from the peppers and the coolness of the cheese creates a balance I truly love. I added a sprinkle of garlic powder for an extra kick, which made the filling irresistible.

While perfecting the recipe, I learned that baking rather than frying gives them a lighter texture without sacrificing flavor. The poppers come out crispy on the outside with a creamy center, and trust me, they are worth the wait!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Spicy jalapenos filled with creamy cheese goodness
A burst of flavor with the addition of fresh chives
Easy to make and perfect for parties or game days

Choosing the Right Jalapenos

When making jalapeno poppers, selecting the right peppers is key to achieving the perfect balance of heat and flavor. Look for firm, vibrant green jalapenos without blemishes or soft spots. Opt for medium-sized ones, as they are usually less spicy than their larger counterparts. If you prefer a milder popper, consider removing all the seeds and membranes, as these parts hold the most heat. A great way to test the spice level is to taste a small piece of the raw pepper before preparing your dish.

If you're making these poppers for a diverse crowd, it's smart to keep some on the milder side. You can achieve this by mixing in some mini sweet peppers or using a combination of jalapenos and mild banana peppers. This way, everyone can enjoy a popper that's just right for their taste buds!

Perfecting the Filling

The cream cheese filling is what makes jalapeno poppers so irresistible. Be sure to soften the cream cheese to room temperature before mixing; this ensures a smooth, creamy texture that spreads easily. Combining cream cheese with shredded cheddar not only adds depth of flavor but also enhances the popper’s gooey interior. I sometimes add a spoonful of sour cream for added tanginess, which complements the spice of the jalapenos perfectly.

For a variation in flavor, don’t hesitate to experiment with different cheese blends such as pepper jack for additional heat or feta for a unique twist. Always taste your filling before stuffing the peppers; this allows you to adjust seasonings to your preference. The right balance of savory, creamy, and herby components will ensure a delicious bite every time.

Serving Suggestions and Storage Tips

Once your jalapeno poppers are baked to crispy perfection, let them cool for just a few minutes before serving. They are typically enjoyed hot, but they also taste great at room temperature, making them ideal for potlucks or parties. For an extra burst of flavor, serve them with a dipping sauce such as ranch dressing, guacamole, or a spicy chipotle mayo. These options add a delightful contrast to the creamy filling.

If you're preparing these poppers in advance, they can be assembled and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a day before baking. They can also be frozen—place them on a baking sheet to firm up, then transfer to a freezer bag for longer storage. When you're ready to bake, there's no need to thaw; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure they're hot throughout.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to whip up these delightful Jalapeno Poppers:

Jalapeno Poppers Ingredients

12 fresh jalapenos
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup fresh chives, chopped
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
12 slices bacon, cut in half

Now that you have all your ingredients, let's get cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Jalapeno Poppers:

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut each jalapeno in half lengthwise and remove the seeds for less heat. You can use gloves for this step to avoid burning your hands.

Make the Filling

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

Stuff the Peppers

Take the cream cheese mixture and fill each jalapeno half generously. Wrap each stuffed jalapeno with a slice of bacon, securing it with a toothpick if needed.

Bake the Poppers

Place the jalapeno poppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy.

Serve and Enjoy

Once done, let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your delicious jalapeno poppers with your favorite dipping sauce!

Enjoy these poppers hot from the oven for the best experience!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding crumbled feta or blue cheese to the cream cheese mixture. If you want a milder version, choose fewer jalapenos or remove all seeds and membranes.

Optional Ingredient Variations

While the classic jalapeno popper is a crowd-pleaser, feel free to get creative with the ingredients. For instance, adding cooked and crumbled sausage or smoked salmon into the cream cheese filling creates a hearty, savory twist. Perhaps tossing in some roasted garlic or sun-dried tomatoes can add an interesting depth of flavor that elevates the poppers beyond the standard version. Experimenting with these variations can impress your guests and keep the dish fresh!

If you want a healthier take on this recipe, consider using turkey bacon or even a vegetarian alternative like almond-based cheese to replace cream cheese. These swaps maintain a decent texture while cutting down on calories. However, just be aware that the flavor profile will vary slightly, so adjust your seasonings accordingly!

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Sometimes, jalapeno poppers may emerge from the oven with soggy bacon. This can happen if the bacon isn't cooked long enough during baking. Ensure your oven is sufficiently preheated to 400°F (200°C) before placing the poppers inside. Cooking them on a wire rack placed over a baking sheet can also help the heat circulate, resulting in crispier bacon and evenly cooked jalapenos.

If your poppers are too spicy, consider serving them with a cooling side like sour cream or a yogurt-based dip to balance the heat. Alternatively, keeping a few jalapeno halves with fewer seeds designated for heat-sensitive guests can ensure everyone enjoys the dish based on their spice tolerance. Having these strategies ready can help you address any issues that arise while making this dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these poppers ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare them a day in advance, store them in the fridge, and bake them just before serving.

→ What can I substitute for cream cheese?

You can use goat cheese or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative if you prefer.

→ How spicy are these poppers?

The level of spiciness depends on how many seeds you leave in the jalapenos. Removing all seeds will make them milder.

→ Can I freeze the jalapeno poppers?

Absolutely! You can freeze the uncooked poppers and bake them directly from frozen. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.