Jalapeno Poppers with Panko Crust

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Panko Crust
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 12 large jalapenos; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/4 tsp onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup panko breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Cooking spray

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making Jalapeno Poppers with Panko Crust for gatherings and game days! The crunch of the panko combined with the creamy cheese filling is utterly irresistible. Each bite is a delightful blend of spice and richness that always gets a good reaction from friends and family. I especially enjoy customizing the filling with different cheeses and herbs to get just the right flavor. Trust me, making these at home is much better than store-bought!

Created by

Rosalie Mitchell

Last updated on 2026-01-10T12:34:12.311Z

When I first tried Jalapeno Poppers, I was amazed by how flavorful they were. I always enjoyed spicy food, but the addition of creamy cheese made the heat so much more enjoyable. I experimented multiple times to find the perfect balance between heat and creaminess. It turns out, using a mixture of cream cheese and sharp cheddar provides that ideal contrast, making each bite a flavor explosion!

One of the best tips I learned is to remove the seeds and membranes thoroughly, as this makes the poppers milder and lets the cheese shine through. Plus, baking them with panko creates an incredibly satisfying crunch that I can't get enough of. Every time I serve them, they disappear in no time!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Irresistible crunch from the panko topping
Delicious creamy cheese filling that balances spice
Easily customizable with various cheese and spice options

      

Mastering the Jalapenos

When preparing jalapenos, always opt for large, firm ones, as they provide more flesh to hold the filling. After slicing them in half, take the time to thoroughly remove the seeds and membranes, especially if you prefer a milder flavor. If you're feeling adventurous, you can leave a few seeds for extra heat, but be aware that this significantly ramps up the spiciness level. Once prepped, you can set the jalapenos aside and focus on creating the perfect filling.

If you have sensitive skin, I recommend wearing gloves while handling jalapenos. The oils from the peppers can irritate your skin and stay on for hours, leading to discomfort. Take care to avoid touching your face, especially your eyes, after handling these vibrant peppers. A simple kitchen tool like a spoon or a small melon baller can work wonders for scooping out the seeds and membranes efficiently.

Achieving the Perfect Cheese Mixture

The cream cheese adds a rich, creamy base to your jalapeno poppers, providing a delightful contrast to the heat of the jalapenos. Mixing it with sharp cheddar not only amplifies the overall flavor but also contributes to a lovely melting quality. For added depth, consider incorporating smoked gouda or pepper jack for a twist on the traditional recipe. Just keep the ratios balanced to maintain the creamy texture that ensures every bite remains velvety smooth.

When mixing your filling, ensure that the cheeses are well combined and the mixture is free from lumps. A hand mixer or food processor works well for this purpose, allowing you to achieve a creamy consistency in no time. If you're opting for any herbs or additional spices, blend them seamlessly into the mixture for an even better flavor distribution throughout the poppers.

Baking to Golden Perfection

The baking process is crucial for achieving that coveted crispy layer from the panko breadcrumbs. Spraying the poppers lightly with cooking spray helps the panko adhere and offers a significant crunch. Make sure to arrange the stuffed jalapenos on a baking sheet with sufficient space between them to promote even cooking. This prevents them from steaming and ensures they develop a nice golden-brown hue on all sides during the bake.

Keep an eye on the jalapeno poppers as they bake. After about 15 minutes, you can rotate the baking sheet to promote even browning. The poppers are ready to come out of the oven when they've developed a beautiful golden color and the cheese filling is bubbly. Let them cool for a few minutes before serving, as the filling will be quite hot and will need a moment to firm up.

Ingredients

For the Jalapeno Poppers

12 large jalapenos
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Cooking spray

Prepare all ingredients before starting to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Instructions

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes for a milder flavor.

Make the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sharp cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Stuff the Jalapenos

Spoon the cheese mixture into each jalapeno half, filling them generously.

Coat with Panko

In another bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with grated Parmesan cheese. Dredge the stuffed jalapenos in the panko mixture, pressing gently to adhere.

Bake

Place the jalapeno poppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly spray with cooking spray. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and crispy.

Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce!

Pro Tips

For a different flavor experience, try adding cooked bacon bits to the cheese mixture. They add a smoky richness that complements the spice of the jalapenos perfectly.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Jalapeno poppers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain their texture, reheat them in the oven rather than the microwave. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the poppers on a baking sheet for about 10-15 minutes until they're heated through and the topping is crisp again.

For longer storage, consider freezing the unbaked stuffed jalapenos. Arrange the prepared jalapenos on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze them until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag and store them in the freezer for up to three months. Whenever you're ready, bake them directly from frozen, increasing the baking time to about 30-35 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

For a delicious serving experience, pair your jalapeno poppers with a cool dipping sauce like ranch, sour cream, or even a zesty avocado crema. The creaminess of these dips balances perfectly with the spicy kick from the poppers, making each bite even more enjoyable. Consider garnishing with fresh cilantro or a sprinkle of green onions for an added pop of color and flavor.

These poppers are excellent as appetizers for game day or gatherings, but you can also serve them as part of a festive platter. They pair beautifully with other finger foods such as mini sliders, nachos, or even a fresh vegetable crudité. This way, you can create a truly fun and engaging spread that will impress your guests!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these poppers ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble them a day in advance and keep them in the fridge before baking.

→ Can I use other types of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with different cheese mixtures, such as mozzarella or pepper jack.

→ How spicy are jalapeno poppers?

The heat level depends on the type of jalapenos used and how much of the seeds and membranes you remove.

→ How can I make these healthier?

You can use reduced-fat cream cheese and Greek yogurt in place of some of the cream cheese to cut calories.