Jalapeno Poppers with Spinach Filling

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Spinach Filling
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 poppers
Ingredients: 12 large jalapeno peppers; 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp paprika; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Golden Favorites

I absolutely love making Jalapeno Poppers with Spinach Filling; they're the perfect blend of creamy, spicy, and savory. Every time I prepare them, the aroma fills the kitchen, and I know it's going to be a hit. The combination of fresh spinach, rich cream cheese, and zesty jalapenos creates a delightful contrast that excites the palate. Whether for a game night or a casual gathering, these poppers always disappear quickly, leaving everyone craving more. Plus, they're a fun way to enjoy vegetables in a deliciously indulgent format!

Created by

Selene Woodward

Last updated on 2026-01-06T12:13:35.649Z

When I first experimented with Jalapeno Poppers, I wanted something different yet satisfying. That's when the idea of adding spinach struck me. It not only gives an unexpected twist but also adds a healthy touch to an otherwise indulgent appetizer. The result was astounding, and my friends loved them!

As I refined the recipe, I focused on balancing the heat from the jalapenos with the cooling cream cheese. The addition of garlic and parmesan gives these poppers a gourmet flair. Trust me, the creamy filling paired with the spicy pepper creates an unforgettable bite!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Creamy spinach filling with a kick of spice
Perfectly balanced flavors that satisfy every palate
Easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The key to making irresistible Jalapeno Poppers is in the quality of the ingredients. Fresh spinach adds not only a vibrant color but also nutritional value, complementing the richness of cream cheese. When selecting jalapenos, look for those that are firm and shiny; this indicates freshness. The type of cheese you choose also plays a significant role: cheddar offers a sharp contrast to the creamy filling, while Parmesan adds a deep umami note that elevates the dish.

Each ingredient in these poppers contributes to the overall flavor profile. The minced garlic introduces a subtle kick and aromatic depth, while the paprika enhances the poppers' visual appeal with a touch of color. For those who love a bit more zest, consider adding a dash of cayenne pepper or even some diced sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor complexity.

Perfecting the Baking Process

Achieving the ideal texture in your Jalapeno Poppers is crucial. Baking them at 375°F (190°C) ensures that the jalapenos become tender without losing their structural integrity. Keep an eye on them during the 15-20 minutes of baking; when the tops are golden, and the filling is bubbly, you know they’re ready. For an even crispier finish, broil them for an additional 1-2 minutes at the end, but watch closely to avoid burning.

It's important to let the poppers cool slightly before serving. This not only prevents burns from the hot filling but also allows the flavors to settle, enhancing the overall taste experience. If you're serving a crowd, feel free to double or even triple the recipe; they vanish quickly!

Ingredients

For the Poppers

12 large jalapeno peppers
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

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

Instructions

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the jalapenos in half lengthwise, removing the seeds and membranes. Set aside.

Make the Filling

In a large bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, chopped spinach, cheddar cheese, parmesan cheese, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Fill the Jalapenos

Spoon the filling into each jalapeno half, ensuring they are well-stuffed.

Bake

Place the filled jalapenos on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, until the jalapenos are tender and the filling is bubbly.

Serve

Let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your spicy, creamy poppers!

These poppers pair wonderfully with sour cream or a dipping sauce of your choice!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, try adding crumbled bacon to the filling for added flavor and texture.

Make-Ahead Tips

If you're planning a gathering, you can prepare these jalapeno poppers in advance to save time. Assemble the poppers up until the baking step, cover them with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. This not only enhances the flavors as they meld but also makes final preparation a breeze on the day of your event. Just remember to add an additional 5-10 minutes to the baking time if they're going in cold.

Another option is to freeze the assembled poppers. Place them on a baking sheet in a single layer until frozen, then transfer to a zip-top bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time. This ensures you have a delicious snack ready at a moment’s notice!

Serving Suggestions

These Jalapeno Poppers are fantastic on their own, but serving them with a few dips can take your appetizer spread to the next level. Consider pairing them with a cooling yogurt-based dip, like tzatziki, which contrasts beautifully with the spicy jalapenos. A simple sour cream and chive dip can also work wonders to balance the heat.

For those looking to experiment, feel free to swap out the filling! Adding cooked bacon or swapping in different cheeses like goat cheese or feta can add unique twists to the classic recipe. You could also incorporate herbs like dill or cilantro for additional freshness, complementing the creamy filling with a herby brightness that pairs well with the savory aspects of the poppers.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these poppers ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and stuff the jalapenos in advance. Just store them in the fridge and bake when ready to serve.

→ What can I substitute for cream cheese?

You can use Greek yogurt or ricotta cheese as a lighter alternative to cream cheese.

→ Are these poppers suitable for freezing?

Yes, you can freeze the stuffed jalapenos before baking. Just bake them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

→ Can I make them spicier?

Definitely! Keep some of the seeds in the jalapenos for added heat, or mix in some hot sauce with the filling.