Jalapeno Poppers with Mozzarella and Herbs

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Mozzarella and Herbs
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 poppers
Ingredients: 12 large jalapenos; 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded; 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened; 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped; 2 tablespoons fresh oregano, chopped; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil for drizzling; Bread crumbs (optional, for topping)

Highlighted under: Easy Meals

I love making Jalapeno Poppers with Mozzarella and Herbs for gatherings because they are always a hit with friends and family. The spicy kick of jalapenos tied with the creamy mozzarella creates a delightful flavor combination that’s hard to resist. We’ve perfected the balance of heat and herbiness, ensuring that each bite is not only flavorful but also comforting. Plus, preparing these poppers is straightforward and doesn’t require any special skills, making it an accessible treat for everyone to enjoy.

Created by

Yvette Harrington

Last updated on 2026-01-14T03:06:45.603Z

When I first tried making Jalapeno Poppers, I was amazed at how simple it was to create such a tasty and satisfying snack. I played around with different herbs and cheeses, discovering that combining mozzarella with fresh basil and oregano adds an unexpected freshness that balances the spice perfectly. This is a fantastic way to use fresh herbs from the garden!

Over the years, I've learned that the key to achieving the best texture is to bake them until they’re golden on the outside. I recommend serving them with a zesty dipping sauce for that extra punch of flavor. Trust me, once you make these, you'll want to whip them up for every occasion!

Why You Will Love These Poppers
Spicy yet creamy flavor profile that tantalizes your taste buds
Fresh herbs add a garden-fresh touch to every bite
Perfect as a starter at parties or a fun snack anytime

Mastering the Jalapeno Handling

Getting the jalapenos just right is crucial for these poppers. When choosing your jalapenos, look for firm, unblemished peppers that have a deep green color. For a milder popper, be sure to remove all seeds and membranes, as these parts contain most of the heat. If you're craving that kick, you can leave some seeds intact. Always wear gloves when handling jalapenos, as their oils can irritate your skin and eyes.

If you're concerned about the spice level, consider blanching the jalapenos in boiling water for 2-3 minutes before stuffing them. This quick technique will tame their heat slightly, resulting in a milder flavor in the finished product, making them more accessible for guests who may not enjoy spiciness.

The Perfect Cheese Mixture

The filling for these poppers shines with the use of both mozzarella and cream cheese. The mozzarella melts beautifully, creating a stretchy texture that's delightful to bite into, while the cream cheese adds a rich creaminess that balances the heat of the jalapenos. I recommend opting for full-fat cream cheese for the best flavor and texture, as lower-fat options can result in a less satisfying consistency when baked.

To elevate the flavor, consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese mixture. These additions can enhance the overall taste, giving your poppers an additional layer of complexity. Just be cautious not to overpower the fresh herbs – they should still be the star of the filling.

Ingredients

For the Jalapeno Poppers

12 large jalapenos
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh oregano, chopped
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for drizzling
Bread crumbs (optional, for topping)

Feel free to adjust the herbs according to your taste!

Instructions

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice each jalapeno in half, lengthwise, and remove the seeds and membranes to control the spice level.

Make the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the mozzarella, cream cheese, basil, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Stuff the Jalapenos

Spoon the cheese mixture into each jalapeno half, ensuring they are generously filled. If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for added crunch.

Bake

Place the stuffed jalapenos on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and bake for about 25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbling and the jalapenos are tender.

Serve

Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy these poppers warm with your favorite dipping sauce!

Don’t forget to garnish with additional fresh herbs for a lovely presentation!

Pro Tips

For a milder version, use less jalapenos or substitute with mini sweet peppers. Additionally, feel free to play around with different cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for a unique twist.

Serving Suggestions

These jalapeno poppers are fabulous served warm on their own, but for a complete snack experience, consider pairing them with homemade ranch or a zesty cilantro lime dip. The coolness of these sauces complements the heat brilliantly, making every bite more enjoyable. You could also serve them alongside tortilla chips and salsa for an appetizer spread at your next gathering.

For a twist, try serving the poppers atop a fresh arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. The peppery greens provide a nice contrast to the creamy filling, creating a well-rounded dish that’s easy to enjoy.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

These jalapeno poppers are perfect for advance prep! You can stuff the jalapenos a day ahead and store them covered in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake. Just drizzle with olive oil right before they go in the oven. This makes them an excellent choice for parties since all you need to do is bake them when the time comes.

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them back in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until they’re heated through and the cheese is bubbly again.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these poppers ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the jalapenos and fill them the day before. Just bake them fresh before serving.

→ What should I serve with jalapeno poppers?

They pair wonderfully with ranch dressing, sour cream, or a spicy dipping sauce like sriracha mayo.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.

→ Can I freeze these poppers?

Absolutely! You can freeze them before baking. Just bake them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.