Jalapeno Poppers with Feta Cheese

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Feta Cheese
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 poppers
Ingredients: 12 fresh jalapenos; 4 oz feta cheese, crumbled; 4 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1/2 tsp onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil for drizzling

Highlighted under: Authentic Global Cuisine Favorites

I absolutely love making Jalapeno Poppers with Feta Cheese, as they are the perfect party snack or appetizer for any gathering. Each bite is a delightful combination of creamy, tangy feta and the playful heat of jalapenos. I enjoy experimenting with different spices and seasonings to take the flavor profile to the next level. These poppers are not only simple to prepare, but they also pack a flavorful punch that keeps everyone coming back for more. Trust me; you won't be able to resist these delicious bites!

Created by

Ottoline Reeves

Last updated on 2026-01-06T13:57:34.960Z

When I first created this Jalapeno Poppers with Feta Cheese recipe, I wanted to achieve a balance of heat and flavor. I noticed that mixing feta with cream cheese created an irresistible filling. The creamy texture contrasts perfectly with the crunchy breadcrumb topping. I also tried adding a touch of garlic powder, which amplifies the flavor without overpowering the jalapenos.

One of my favorite tips is to soak the jalapenos in water for about 30 minutes before filling them. This technique mellows out the heat a bit, allowing more people to enjoy them without the fear of overpowering spice. Trust me, this small step can make a big difference in the overall taste!

        Why You'll Love These Poppers
        Unique flavor combination of spicy jalapenos and creamy feta
Great for party platters or game day snacks
Easily customizable with your favorite herbs and spices

      

Baking Techniques for Perfect Poppers

Baking jalapeno poppers at the right temperature is crucial for achieving the perfect texture. I recommend preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure even cooking. This temperature allows the cream cheese filling to become creamy and luscious while giving the breadcrumbs enough time to turn golden brown and crisp up. Keep an eye on the poppers during the last few minutes of baking, as they can quickly go from perfectly baked to overcooked.

An excellent way to enhance the crispiness of your poppers is to let them cool for a few minutes after baking. This allows the cheese to set a bit, preventing the filling from spilling out when you take a bite. If you desire an even crunchier texture, consider placing the baking sheet under the broiler for the last minute of cooking, but be vigilant to avoid burning the breadcrumbs.

Customizing Your Poppers

One of the best aspects of jalapeno poppers is their versatility. Feel free to swap the feta cheese for other cheeses like goat cheese or shredded cheddar for a different flavor profile. If you’re looking to cut calories or accommodate dietary restrictions, using low-fat cream cheese is an excellent substitute. For a dairy-free option, consider using vegan cream cheese and adjusting the spices to match your preferences.

You can also play with the spice levels in your filling. Adding a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes or smoked paprika can elevate the flavor and add depth. If you prefer a milder version, use fewer jalapenos or choose larger ones with fewer seeds, as these tend to be less spicy.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create these mouthwatering jalapeno poppers!

For the Jalapeno Poppers

12 fresh jalapenos
4 oz feta cheese, crumbled
4 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1 clove garlic, minced
1/2 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for drizzling

Make sure to have all your ingredients prepared before you start assembling!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make the perfect Jalapeno Poppers with Feta Cheese.

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice each jalapeno in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes for less heat.

Make the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine feta cheese, cream cheese, minced garlic, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended.

Fill the Jalapenos

Spoon the cheese mixture into each jalapeno half, pressing slightly to pack it in.

Crust the Poppers

Sprinkle breadcrumbs generously over the filled jalapenos. Drizzle with olive oil.

Bake

Place the jalapenos on a baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes or until the breadcrumbs are golden and crispy.

Let them cool slightly before serving to enjoy at their best!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding shredded cheddar cheese on top before baking. Adjust the amount of garlic and spices in the filling based on your taste preferences.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftover jalapeno poppers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, I recommend using the oven rather than the microwave to maintain their crispy texture. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the poppers on a baking sheet for about 10-12 minutes until they are heated through and the breadcrumbs are crisp.

For longer storage, these poppers can also be frozen. After baking, let them cool completely, then arrange them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When you're ready to enjoy them, bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for approximately 20-25 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

Jalapeno poppers make for a fantastic appetizer, but they can also be a fun addition to a dinner party table. Serve them with a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping, or even a homemade spicy aioli to complement the flavors. Fresh cilantro or parsley sprinkled on top before serving adds a lovely color and freshness to the dish.

For a more substantial snack, consider pairing the poppers with a selection of cheeses, nuts, and a charcuterie board. They also work wonderfully as a game-day bite, alongside flavorful dips like guacamole or salsa, creating a delightful array of textures and flavors that will keep your guests engaged and satisfied.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these jalapeno poppers ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare them up to the baking step and refrigerate. Just bake them when you're ready to serve.

→ How can I make them less spicy?

Removing the seeds and membranes will help reduce the spice level. You can also soak them in cold water for a while before filling.

→ What can I serve with jalapeno poppers?

They pair beautifully with a cooling dip like ranch dressing or sour cream.

→ Can I freeze the poppers?

Absolutely, just make sure to wrap them well before freezing. Bake straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.