Jalapeno Poppers with Onion Dip

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Onion Dip
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 poppers
Ingredients: 12 large jalapeno peppers; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp onion powder; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; Oil for frying; 1 large onion, finely chopped; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 cup sour cream; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Cozy Comfort Meals Ideas

I absolutely adore spicy snacks, and Jalapeno Poppers have become one of my favorite treats to prepare. Combining the heat of jalapenos with a creamy, cheesy filling is simply irresistible! The addition of a rich onion dip elevates the flavor and gives this appetizer a delightful twist. Whether I’m hosting friends or enjoying a cozy night in, these poppers are sure to impress. With every bite, I love the balance of flavors and the satisfying crunch of the crispy exterior. Let me share how to create these delicious bites!

Created by

Maribel Sutton

Last updated on 2026-01-12T04:33:34.945Z

Creating Jalapeno Poppers at home brings me immense joy, especially when I can customize the filling to match my taste. I’ve experimented with various cheeses, but a blend of cream cheese and cheddar has proven to be the ultimate choice. The creaminess perfectly complements the spicy jalapenos. I recently discovered that soaking the peppers in water before filling them helps to temper their heat without losing that signature flavor.

When making the onion dip, I like to sauté the onions until they're caramelized, which adds a deep sweetness that balances the poppers' heat. I've found that serving the poppers hot out of the oven with a side of this dip turns them into a crowd-pleaser. It’s all about layering flavors for an unforgettable experience!

        Why You'll Love These Jalapeno Poppers
        Spicy and cheesy explosion in every bite
Creamy onion dip adds a delightful contrast
Perfect for game days or casual gatherings

      

Mastering the Jalapeno Poppers

When preparing jalapeno poppers, the key step is selecting the right peppers. Look for firm, shiny jalapenos; they should be plump and not wrinkled. The peppers will be cut lengthwise, so make sure you have a sharp knife to ensure clean cuts. Removing the seeds and membranes is crucial for controlling the heat level; if you prefer a spicier kick, leave a few seeds intact or choose hotter varieties, like serranos.

The filling is where the magic happens! Combining the cream cheese with shredded cheddar creates a creamy base that balances well with the jalapeno's heat. Softening the cream cheese beforehand is essential; place it at room temperature for about 30 minutes to make mixing easier. For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding crumbled bacon or finely chopped herbs like chives or cilantro into the filling.

Perfecting the Crunch

Achieving that satisfying crunch is all about the breadcrumb coating. For optimal texture, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs; panko will create a lighter, airier crust. As you coat the jalapenos, gently press the breadcrumbs into the filling to ensure they adhere well. If you find that some breadcrumbs aren't sticking, a light spray of cooking oil on the poppers before baking can help crust them beautifully.

Baking the poppers creates a lovely crispness without the mess of frying. Once you've placed them on the parchment-lined baking sheet, be sure to space them out evenly to allow hot air to circulate, promoting an even bake. Baking time is critical; watch for golden edges, as it usually indicates they are perfectly cooked. If you want to get them extra crispy, briefly broil them for an additional 1-2 minutes after baking.

Ingredients for Jalapeno Poppers

For the Jalapeno Poppers

12 large jalapeno peppers
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
Oil for frying

For the Onion Dip

1 large onion, finely chopped
2 tbsp olive oil
1 cup sour cream
1/2 cup mayonnaise
Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation Instructions

Steps to Prepare Jalapeno Poppers

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membrane. This will help reduce the heat.

Make the Filling

In a bowl, mix the cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, and onion powder until well combined. Spoon the mixture into each jalapeno half.

Coat in Breadcrumbs

Dredge the filled jalapenos in breadcrumbs, ensuring they are well-coated. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake the Poppers

Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the tops are golden and crispy.

Prepare the Onion Dip

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until caramelized. Remove from heat and let cool before mixing with sour cream and mayonnaise. Season with salt and pepper.

Serve

Serve the jalapeno poppers hot out of the oven with the onion dip on the side for dipping.

Enjoy Your Delicious Appetizer!

Pro Tips

For an extra crunch, broil the poppers for an additional 2-3 minutes after baking. This will give them that perfect golden color.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers or want to prepare them ahead of time, jalapeno poppers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the poppers on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crispy again, avoiding the microwave to prevent them from becoming soggy.

For optimal flavor and texture, consider freezing the uncooked poppers. After coating them with breadcrumbs, place them on a baking sheet in a single layer in the freezer. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be baked directly from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for an extra 5-10 minutes than the usual baking time.

Serve with Flair

Presenting jalapeno poppers with an onion dip elevates the experience. To make your serving platter more appealing, consider garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro. Additionally, adding hot sauce or a lime wedge can enhance the dipping experience for those who crave extra zest.

These poppers also make fantastic finger foods for parties. To complement the poppers, a refreshing side like a cucumber salsa or a tangy slaw balances the heat effectively. You can also serve them with an array of dipping sauces, such as ranch or chipotle mayo, to cater to different flavor preferences among your guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make Jalapeno Poppers ahead of time?

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

→ What can I substitute if I don’t like spiciness?

Try using mini sweet bell peppers instead of jalapenos for a milder flavor.

→ Can I bake instead of fry?

Absolutely! Baking is a healthier option; just ensure they are well-coated with oil for crispiness.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best result.