Jalapeno Poppers with Panko Crust

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Panko Crust
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 poppers
Ingredients: 12 large jalapeños; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 cup panko breadcrumbs; 2 tbsp olive oil

Highlighted under: Easy Baking Inspiration

I’ve always been a fan of appetizers that pack a punch, and these Jalapeno Poppers with Panko Crust are no exception. They combine the heat of jalapeños with a creamy filling and a perfectly crunchy exterior. Over the years, I’ve tweaked this recipe to enhance the flavors and texture, creating a delightful snack that never fails to impress my friends at parties. Whether you serve them as a game day treat or at a casual gathering, they’re sure to be a hit.

Created by

Grace Walker

Last updated on 2026-01-12T04:25:35.125Z

When making Jalapeno Poppers, I found that the right balance of creaminess and crunch is crucial. Initially, I experimented with different fillings, but I discovered that mixing cream cheese with a hint of cheddar and spices creates a perfect flavor bomb. Baking them instead of frying not only keeps them lighter but also allows the panko crust to achieve its ideal golden crispness.

One essential tip I've learned is to remove the seeds from the jalapeños for a milder taste; however, if you crave more heat, leave a few seeds in. This approach gives everyone the option to enjoy them at their preferred spice level, making these poppers a versatile choice for any gathering!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        The spicy kick of fresh jalapeños combined with creamy filling
A crunchy panko crust that adds perfect texture
Ideal for sharing at parties or enjoying on a cozy night in

      

Perfecting the Filling

The filling for these jalapeno poppers is the heart of the dish, and the combination of cream cheese and cheddar cheese creates a luscious texture that perfectly balances the heat of the jalapeños. Make sure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature; this allows for easy mixing and a smooth filling that easily spreads into the jalapeño halves. If you prefer a spicier flavor, consider adding a few dashes of hot sauce to the filling for an extra kick.

For a touch of sophistication, you can blend in additional ingredients like crumbled bacon or diced green onions). Both add depth and complexity to the poppers, enhancing their flavor while maintaining the necessary creaminess. Don’t hesitate to get creative and play around with your favorite cheeses or flavors; goat cheese or pepper jack would make delicious alternatives.

Achieving the Ideal Crunch

The panko breadcrumbs are crucial for achieving a crispy, golden exterior on your jalapeno poppers. For optimal results, choose high-quality panko, which is coarser and will yield a superior crunch compared to regular breadcrumbs. Sprinkling the panko with olive oil is essential; this not only helps the breadcrumbs brown uniformly but also adds flavor and aids in achieving that crunchy texture we crave in each bite.

To ensure an even coating of panko, gently press it into the filling after sprinkling it on top of each jalapeno. This will help the breadcrumbs adhere during baking. Keep an eye on the poppers as they bake; if they aren’t browning evenly, you can rotate the baking sheet halfway through for consistent results.

Serving and Storing

Once your jalapeno poppers come out of the oven, let them cool for about five to ten minutes before serving. This not only makes them safer to eat but also allows the filling to set slightly, preventing it from spilling out when you take a bite. They pair wonderfully with dipping sauces like ranch or a tangy garlic aioli, which complement the heat of the jalapeños beautifully.

If you have leftovers (though good luck with that!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes; this will help maintain their crispiness. If you're making these ahead of time, you can also freeze them before baking; simply bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the oven time for even cooking.

Ingredients

For the Jalapeno Poppers

12 large jalapeños
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

Prepare the Jalapeños

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the jalapeños in half lengthwise and remove the seeds using a spoon. Set them aside.

Make the Filling

In a medium bowl, mix the cream cheese, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Stuff the Jalapeños

Using a spoon or piping bag, fill each jalapeño half with the cheese mixture until full.

Prepare Panko Crust

In a separate bowl, toss panko breadcrumbs with olive oil until they are evenly coated.

Bake the Poppers

Place the stuffed jalapeños on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Top each with panko mixture and bake for about 20 minutes, or until golden brown.

Serve

Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your Jalapeno Poppers with your favorite dipping sauce!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding cooked crumbled bacon to the cheese filling. Serve with ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you’re looking for a healthier alternative to the usual fillings, consider using Greek yogurt in place of cream cheese. It provides a similar creaminess while being lower in fat. Another option is to experiment with different types of cheese; for a smokier flavor, try smoked gouda or even crumbled feta for a salty twist that pairs well with jalapeños.

For those avoiding gluten, you can substitute panko breadcrumbs with crushed cornflakes or ground almonds, both of which will maintain a crunchy texture once baked. If you want a dairy-free option, look for dairy-free cream cheese and cheese alternatives made from nuts or soy.

Variations to Try

Feeling adventurous? Explore different flavor profiles by adding southwestern spices to your filling mixture, such as cumin or smoked paprika, which can enhance the overall taste. You can also throw in diced tomatoes or finely chopped spinach to the mix for added nutrition and a pop of color.

For a crowd-pleasing variation, you could wrap the filled jalapeños in bacon before coating them in panko. The bacon adds a savory layer that complements the heat, creating a flavor explosion. Just be sure to adjust your baking time, as bacon may require a few extra minutes to become crispy.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these jalapeno poppers ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can stuff the jalapeños and keep them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.

→ How do I make them less spicy?

Remove all the seeds and inner membranes of the jalapeños. Alternatively, use sweet mini peppers instead.

→ Can I freeze jalapeño poppers?

Yes, you can freeze them before baking. Just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer to an airtight container.

→ What dipping sauces pair well with these poppers?

Ranch dressing, sour cream, or a spicy aioli are excellent choices for dipping.