Jalapeno Poppers with Mozzarella and Herbs

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Mozzarella and Herbs
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 poppers
Ingredients: 12 large jalapenos; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; Olive oil spray

Highlighted under: Simple Baking Collection

When I decided to make Jalapeno Poppers with Mozzarella and Herbs, I was excited to create a dish that would balance heat with creamy goodness. The combination of fresh herbs paired with gooey mozzarella creates a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist. I’ve experimented with various fillings, but this one stands out for its simplicity and freshness. Whether it's game day, a party, or just a cozy night in, these poppers are sure to impress. Trust me, they'll disappear before you know it!

Created by

Serena Whitaker

Last updated on 2026-01-14T03:06:36.728Z

Creating the perfect Jalapeno Popper was a delightful challenge that taught me about balancing flavors. By incorporating fresh herbs like parsley and cilantro, I added an unexpected freshness that cut through the richness of the mozzarella. This combination elevates the dish from just a snack to a crowd-pleasing appetizer!

I’ve learned that the key to the perfect balance of flavors lies in how you prepare the jalapeños. I choose to pre-bake them just enough to soften without losing their crunch, allowing for a delightful textural contrast with the creamy filling. It's a small detail, but it makes a huge difference!

Why You'll Love These Poppers
Creamy mozzarella filling with a hint of freshness from herbs
Spicy kick balanced with rich flavors
Perfect for sharing at parties or enjoying as a snack

Jalapeno Prep Secrets

The key to achieving the perfect jalapeno popper begins with selecting the right jalapenos. Look for firm, glossy peppers with an even green color. I recommend using large jalapenos as they have a good balance of heat and room for stuffing. When slicing them in half, be careful to maintain the integrity of the pepper halves, ensuring they hold the filling well without splitting.

When removing the seeds and membranes, it's advisable to wear gloves to avoid irritating your skin. The seeds contain most of the heat, so adjust the amount you leave in according to your heat preference. If you want a milder flavor, ensure you remove both the seeds and membranes thoroughly, but for a spicier kick, leave a few seeds intact.

Crafting the Filling

For the filling, the combination of cream cheese with mozzarella not only enhances the creaminess but also aids in achieving that classic gooey texture once baked. I find that using full-fat cream cheese gives the best results, as it yields a richer flavor compared to reduced-fat alternatives. To bring out the best in the herbs, ensure they are fresh; dried herbs won’t provide the same vibrant taste.

Mixing the filling ingredients thoroughly is crucial. Aim for a consistency that allows it to hold together but is also easy to spoon into the jalapenos. If the mixture feels too stiff, you can add a splash of milk or a bit more cream cheese to loosen it. Conversely, if it's too runny, adding a bit more mozzarella or breadcrumbs can help it set up perfectly.

Perfecting the Bake

When it comes to baking, ensuring your poppers are evenly spaced on the baking sheet allows for proper heat circulation, leading to an evenly cooked result. Lining the baking sheet with parchment paper not only assists in easy cleanup but also prevents sticking, which is essential for achieving that crispy breadcrumb coating. Bake them for 15 minutes, but keep an eye out for when the breadcrumbs turn a lovely golden brown.

If you find that the tops aren't browning as much as you'd like, consider broiling them for an additional 1-2 minutes at the end of the baking time. Just watch closely to avoid burning. For added flavor, you can sprinkle some grated Parmesan on top before baking to create a crunchier, cheesier finish!

Ingredients

For the Jalapeno Poppers

12 large jalapenos
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
Olive oil spray

Make sure to wear gloves when handling the jalapenos!

Instructions

Prepare Jalapenos

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes.

Make Filling

In a bowl, combine mozzarella, cream cheese, parsley, cilantro, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Fill Jalapenos

Stuff each jalapeno half with the cheese mixture and then dip the filled poppers in breadcrumbs, coating evenly.

Bake

Place the poppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and spray lightly with olive oil. Bake for 15 minutes or until golden.

Allow the poppers to cool for a few minutes before serving to ensure the filling is not too hot!

Pro Tips

For a twist, try adding some chopped cooked bacon to the filling for an extra layer of flavor.

Variations and Customizations

While the classic mozzarella-herb combination is fantastic, there are endless possibilities for customizing your jalapeno poppers. Try adding cooked bacon bits for a smoky flavor or jalapeño slices in the filling for added heat. You could also incorporate chopped sun-dried tomatoes or olives for a Mediterranean twist, which will add incredible depth to the flavor profile.

For a cheesy twist, consider mixing in crumbled feta or goat cheese alongside the mozzarella. This can enhance the tanginess of the poppers. Or, if you're in the mood for something unique, substitute some of the breadcrumbs with crushed tortilla chips for an extra crunch and flavor boost.

Make-Ahead and Storage

These jalapeno poppers can be made ahead of time, making them perfect for entertaining. After stuffing and coating them with breadcrumbs, you can freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag. They can be kept frozen for up to three months, and you can bake them straight from the freezer; just slightly increase the baking time by about 5-10 minutes.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until they're heated through and the breadcrumbs regain their crispness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy.

Serving Suggestions

These poppers are fantastic on their own, but serving them with a homemade dip can elevate your appetizer game. A cooling sour cream or yogurt dip with a hint of lime complements the heat beautifully. For a spicy kick, mix in some salsa or hot sauce into your dip, perfect for those who love extra heat.

Consider pairing these jalapeno poppers with a refreshing salad or a platter of fresh veggies to contrast the richness. They're also a hit when served with cocktails or cold beers, making them your next go-to party snack. Your guests won't be able to resist!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these poppers ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the filling and stuff the jalapenos ahead of time. Just bake them just before serving.

→ What can I use instead of mozzarella?

You can substitute with cheddar or pepper jack for a spicier kick.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze jalapeno poppers?

Yes, you can freeze them before baking. Just make sure to thaw them before baking.