Jalapeno Poppers with Pepper Jack

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Pepper Jack
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 poppers
Ingredients: 12 fresh jalapenos; 8 oz pepper jack cheese, softened; 12 slices of bacon; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Cooking spray

Highlighted under: Classic Kitchen

I love making Jalapeno Poppers with Pepper Jack for gatherings and game days. The combination of spicy jalapenos and creamy, melting pepper jack cheese creates a flavor explosion that's hard to resist. I typically prepare them as a fun appetizer, and every bite offers a delightful crunch followed by a cheesy, spicy kick. These poppers are not only delicious but also surprisingly easy to prepare, making them a staple in my recipe book. Trust me, everyone will be reaching for seconds!

Created by

Leonie Fairchild

Last updated on 2026-01-13T02:00:36.784Z

When I first tried making Jalapeno Poppers, I was pleasantly surprised at how simple yet satisfying they were. I experimented with various cheeses, but pepper jack quickly became my favorite due to its excellent melt and spicy flavor. I recommend using fresh jalapenos that are firm to the touch; they hold up wonderfully during cooking.

One little tip I learned is to let the bacon cool slightly before wrapping it around the filled jalapenos. This prevents the cheese from melting away too quickly and helps it stay creamy and gooey. I always serve these with a side of ranch dressing for dipping, and it never disappoints!

Why You'll Love These Popcorns
Creamy pepper jack cheese for a bold flavor
Perfectly crispy bacon enveloping each popper
Spicy jalapenos that add a kick to every bite

Why Fresh Jalapenos Matter

Choosing fresh jalapenos is crucial for achieving the right balance of heat and flavor. Look for firm, smooth peppers that are bright in color. Avoid any that are wrinkled or have soft spots, as these may indicate spoilage. The level of spiciness can vary, so tasting a piece before using can help you gauge how much heat to expect, allowing you to adjust your ingredients accordingly.

When preparing the jalapenos, wearing gloves is strongly recommended. The capsaicin that gives jalapenos their heat can linger on your skin and irritate your eyes, so taking precautions is essential. Additionally, removing the seeds and membranes will help decrease the heat if you prefer a milder version. For those who love spice, consider leaving a few seeds behind for an extra kick!

Perfecting the Cheese Filling

The creamy pepper jack cheese is not just a flavor choice; its meltability is key to a gooey filling that complements the crunchy bacon perfectly. For a smoother mixture, make sure the cheese is softened at room temperature before mixing. This makes it easier to blend in the garlic and onion powder, creating a cohesive filling that adheres beautifully to the jalapenos.

If you want to experiment with flavors, consider mixing in some cream cheese for an even creamier texture or add diced green onions for a fresh crunch. Alternatively, substituting the pepper jack with a low-fat version can lighten up the dish while still maintaining some of the spicy characteristics. Just keep an eye on the melting properties, as some cheeses behave differently in the oven.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Once your jalapeno poppers are ready, you can elevate their presentation by serving them on a platter with a variety of dipping sauces, such as ranch, blue cheese dressing, or a zesty salsa. These sauces not only add flavor contrasts but also enhance the overall eating experience, allowing guests to customize their bites based on personal preferences.

For those looking to mix things up, consider adding different spices to the cheese filling or wrapping the poppers with seasoned turkey bacon instead of regular bacon for a healthier option. You can also top them with a sprinkle of cheddar cheese during the last few minutes of baking for a cheesy crust. The possibilities are endless, making these jalapeno poppers a versatile appetizer!

Ingredients

To create these delicious Jalapeno Poppers with Pepper Jack, gather the following ingredients:

Ingredients

12 fresh jalapenos
8 oz pepper jack cheese, softened
12 slices of bacon
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking spray

Once you have all your ingredients, you're ready to start making these fantastic appetizers!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your Jalapeno Poppers:

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice each jalapeno in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes carefully. Wear gloves to avoid irritation from the jalapenos.

Make the Filling

In a bowl, mix the softened pepper jack cheese with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Fill the Jalapenos

Stuff each jalapeno half with the cheese mixture, pressing it in to fill them generously.

Wrap with Bacon

Cut the bacon slices in half and wrap each one around a stuffed jalapeno half, securing it with a toothpick if necessary.

Bake

Place the wrapped jalapenos on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and spray lightly with cooking spray. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes or until the bacon is crispy.

Serve

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

These poppers are best enjoyed fresh from the oven, so be sure to serve them warm!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding some chopped green onions or cilantro into the cheese mixture. You can also experiment with different types of cheese based on your preference.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have any leftover jalapeno poppers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain their crispiness when reheating, place them in an oven or air fryer instead of the microwave. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10 minutes, or until they're heated through and the bacon regains its crispy texture.

For longer storage, you can freeze the unbaked stuffed jalapenos. After assembling them, lay them on a baking sheet in a single layer until frozen, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be baked directly from frozen for an extra 5-10 minutes, making them a perfect make-ahead appetizer for last-minute gatherings.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find that your bacon isn't crisping up as expected, make sure you are using thin-cut bacon and not thick cut, which may not cook through fully. Additionally, ensuring that the jalapenos are spaced apart on the baking sheet allows for proper air circulation, promoting even cooking and crisping.

Sometimes the filling may ooze out during baking. To prevent this, make sure to pack the cheese mixture tightly into each jalapeno half. Using a little toothpick to secure the bacon can also help keep everything in place while they bake, ensuring an appealing and intact presentation.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these poppers ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the poppers and refrigerate them until ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

→ What can I use instead of bacon?

You can substitute bacon with prosciutto or skip meat entirely and use a vegetarian bacon alternative.

→ Are these poppers spicy?

Yes, the jalapenos provide a spicy kick, but you can reduce the heat by removing more of the seeds and membranes.

→ Can I freeze the leftovers?

Absolutely! You can freeze the cooked jalapeno poppers and reheat them in the oven when you're ready to enjoy.