Cream Cheese-Stuffed Jalapenos

Name: Cream Cheese-Stuffed Jalapenos
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 fresh jalapenos; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making Cream Cheese-Stuffed Jalapenos for gatherings or just a cozy night at home. The creamy, spicy filling perfectly balances with the crunchy jalapeno shells, creating an irresistible appetizer. Plus, they are surprisingly easy to prepare. We often whip these up for game day or as a fun treat for our friends. With a delicious combination of flavors and textures, these stuffed jalapenos are always a hit, leaving everyone wanting more. Give them a try—you won’t be disappointed!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-15T11:33:30.968Z

Preparing these Cream Cheese-Stuffed Jalapenos has become a cherished tradition in my kitchen. The process is straightforward, but the results are always impressive! I start by carefully selecting firm jalapenos to ensure they hold up well during baking, which makes a huge difference in texture.

After experimenting with different fillings, I found that blending cream cheese with spices and herbs gives a creamy mixture that melds beautifully with the heat of the peppers. Roasting them until golden not only brings out a smoky flavor but also creates a delightful crunch. They disappear quickly at any gathering!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and creamy filling that perfectly complements the spice of jalapenos
Easy to prepare and ready in just 35 minutes
Addictive appetizer that guests will rave about

      

Perfecting the Stuffing

Achieving the ideal cream cheese filling texture is key to making these stuffed jalapenos truly delightful. Make sure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature before mixing; this ensures a smooth, creamy consistency without any lumps. For added depth of flavor, consider blending in some crumbled bacon or chopped green onions into the filling. These ingredients complement the spiciness of the jalapenos beautifully.

If you're a fan of heat, try swapping out half of the cream cheese for pepper jack cheese to escalate the flavor and spice. Alternatively, for a milder version, use a blend of cream cheese and sour cream, which adds tanginess while cooling down the heat of the jalapenos. Rotating these variations can keep this recipe fresh every time you make it.

Baking Tips for Perfection

Baking the stuffed jalapenos at the right temperature is crucial for the best texture and flavor. As they bake, aim for a final internal temperature of about 165°F (74°C) for the filling to ensure that it's heated through, while keeping the jalapeno shells tender. Keep an eye on them around the 12-minute mark; you'll know they’re ready when the tops are slightly golden and bubbling.

For a crispy topping, consider adding a sprinkle of breadcrumbs or additional shredded cheese right before the end of baking. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a satisfying crunch. If you're preparing a larger batch, just make sure to space the jalapenos out adequately on the baking sheet to allow even heat circulation.

Ingredients

For the Stuffed Jalapenos

12 fresh jalapenos
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

These ingredients will create a delicious combination to fill each jalapeno pepper and satisfy your guests!

Instructions

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes carefully to reduce the heat level, if desired.

Make the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended and creamy.

Stuff the Jalapenos

Using a spoon or a piping bag, fill each jalapeno half with the cream cheese mixture, ensuring they are generously filled.

Bake

Place the stuffed jalapenos on a baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes or until the jalapenos are tender, and the tops are slightly golden.

Serve

Allow the jalapenos to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy them hot as a mouthwatering appetizer!

These jalapenos are best served hot but can also be enjoyed at room temperature.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding chopped cooked bacon or sausage to the filling mix.

Make-Ahead and Storage

Preparing these stuffed jalapenos ahead of time can be a game changer for busy cooks. You can stuff them up to a day in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just remember to bring them back to room temperature for about 20 minutes before baking to ensure they cook evenly.

If you're looking to freeze the stuffed jalapenos, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze fully before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored this way for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy them, bake them directly from the freezer, but increase the baking time by about 5-10 minutes for best results.

Serving Suggestions

These jalapenos can be a versatile appetizer, perfect for pairing with various dips and sauces. Try serving them with ranch dressing or sour cream for dipping, which can help balance the heat. They also pair well with a tangy salsa or a vibrant avocado crema for an added layer of flavor.

For a more substantial snack, consider placing the stuffed jalapenos on a platter alongside some tortilla chips or a fresh salad. The contrast of textures and flavors not only enhances the eating experience, but also makes for a visually appealing presentation.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffed jalapenos and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.

→ What can I serve with stuffed jalapenos?

These jalapenos pair beautifully with ranch dressing, salsa, or guacamole for dipping.

→ Are these spicy?

They can be! Removing the seeds and membranes reduces the heat. If you're unsure, taste a little of the pepper before stuffing.

→ Can I freeze the stuffed jalapenos?

Yes, you can freeze them! Just ensure they are well-wrapped before placing them in the freezer. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.