Jalapeno Poppers with Mozzarella and Herbs

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Mozzarella and Herbs
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 10 large jalapenos; 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded; 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup fresh herbs (parsley, cilantro, or chives), chopped; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional)

Highlighted under: Cozy Comfort Food Ideas

I absolutely love making Jalapeno Poppers with Mozzarella and Herbs! These spicy, cheesy delights have a way of stealing the show, especially at gatherings. The balance of heat from the jalapenos and the smoothness of the melted mozzarella creates a wonderful texture in every bite. It's a fantastic way to impress guests, and I enjoy experimenting with different herbs to elevate their flavor. Whether it’s a game day or a cozy evening at home, these poppers never disappoint!

Created by

Olivia Martin

Last updated on 2026-01-14T08:13:37.086Z

Trying out different flavors for my Jalapeno Poppers was a game-changer for me. I discovered that mixing various herbs not only adds freshness but also enhances the overall flavor profile. Using Mozzarella cheese gives it a wonderfully gooey texture that's hard to resist! In fact, I once added a sprinkle of smoked paprika to the filling, and it turned out to be a hit with my guests.

The technique of pre-soaking jalapenos in a vinegar solution really helps in balancing their heat level. It’s a simple step but made a world of difference in achieving the perfect pop. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe; I’m confident it will become a favorite!

        Why You'll Love These Poppers
        A perfect blend of spicy and cheesy goodness
Fresh herbs elevate the flavors to new heights
Great as an appetizer or a party snack

      

Elevating Your Poppers

When making Jalapeno Poppers, the choice of herbs can significantly enhance the flavor profile. Fresh herbs like cilantro bring brightness, while parsley adds a subtle earthiness. You could even try using a mix of these herbs for a more complex taste. Additionally, consider adding a hint of spice by incorporating crushed red pepper flakes into the cheese mixture to intensify that heat and flavor balance, especially if your jalapenos are on the milder side.

Don’t shy away from experimenting with cheese blends. While mozzarella is favored for its meltiness, combining it with a sharper cheese, such as cheddar or pepper jack, can elevate the flavor. This will not only introduce a contrasting sharpness but also contribute varying textures as the cheeses melt together. The right cheese combination can transform your poppers into a standout snack that prompts everyone to ask for your recipe.

Stuffing Techniques

Stuffing jalapenos can be a bit tricky if you’re not careful about the filling consistency. Aim for a thick yet spreadable mixture that easily holds its shape. If your cheese mix is too runny, the filling may ooze out during baking, leading to a messy popper. To fix this, ensure your cream cheese is adequately softened but not overly whipped; you want it to maintain structure. A good tip is to use a piping bag to fill your jalapenos, which allows for a cleaner application.

Pay attention to how you prep the jalapenos; halving them evenly ensures each half has an adequate surface area for filling. If some halves are larger than others, try using a melon baller to scoop out even more of the insides. This gives you extra space for that delicious filling. Lastly, remember to push the mixture down gently but firmly, allowing it to occupy all crevices without spilling out over the edges.

Ingredients

For the Jalapeno Poppers

10 large jalapenos
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup fresh herbs (parsley, cilantro, or chives), chopped
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional)

Feel free to adjust the herb selection based on your personal preferences!

Instructions

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes. For less heat, consider soaking them in a vinegar solution for 15 minutes.

Make the Filling

In a bowl, combine the mozzarella cheese, cream cheese, chopped herbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Stuff the Jalapenos

Spoon the cheese mixture into each jalapeno half, pressing down gently to ensure it’s filled well.

Add Breadcrumbs (Optional)

If using breadcrumbs, sprinkle them over the stuffed jalapenos for an added crunch.

Bake

Place the jalapenos on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and lightly golden.

Allow them to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor kick, add cooked bacon bits into the cheese filling. You can also serve these poppers with a dipping sauce of your choice, like ranch or a spicy aioli.

Make Ahead and Storage

Preparing jalapeno poppers ahead of time can be a real time-saver, especially for parties. Once stuffed, you can place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to two days. Just remember to add the breadcrumbs right before baking to maintain their crispiness. If you do not plan to cook them immediately, you can also freeze them in a single layer before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for about three months, making them a quick-fix appetizer for spontaneous gatherings.

When reheat frozen jalapeno poppers, there’s no need to thaw them out. Simply place them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for approximately 20-25 minutes. This will retain their crispness while ensuring the interior is piping hot. Look for visual cues like bubbling cheese and golden edges to know they are done, providing that satisfying bite you crave.

Serving Suggestions

These Jalapeno Poppers pair beautifully with a variety of dips. A creamy ranch or cooling sour cream can balance the heat, while a tangy salsa or zesty guacamole adds a fresh contrast. For a fun twist, consider serving them with homemade cilantro-lime sauce to enhance the herbaceous notes of your poppers. Plating them on a colorful platter garnished with fresh herbs makes for an eye-catching presentation at your next event.

If you're looking to spice up the meal, try these poppers alongside grilled meats or tacos. They can serve as an excellent side to any Tex-Mex dish, complementing the flavors seamlessly. Alternatively, consider adding them as a topping on nachos; simply slice the baked poppers and scatter them over a bed of tortilla chips with melted cheese for a new take on a classic dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these poppers ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the poppers, stuff them with the filling, and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking.

→ Are there any substitutes for mozzarella cheese?

Absolutely! You can use cheddar, pepper jack, or a mix of different cheeses for added flavor.

→ How spicy are these poppers?

The spice level depends on the type of jalapenos used. Removing the seeds and membranes helps to tone down the heat.

→ Can I grill these instead of baking?

Yes! Grilling is a great alternative. Just place them on a grill-safe pan and cook until the cheese melts and the peppers are tender.