Jalapeño Popper Stuffed Peppers

Name: Jalapeño Popper Stuffed Peppers
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 large jalapeño peppers; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 4 oz cooked bacon, crumbled; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/4 tsp smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Easy Recipes | Simple Food

When I first made Jalapeño Popper Stuffed Peppers, it was a spontaneous decision based on what I had in my fridge. The combination of spicy jalapeños, rich cream cheese, and savory bacon creates an irresistible flavor explosion. I love how you can customize the spice level by choosing milder or hotter peppers. Plus, they are easy to prepare and perfect as appetizers or a main course. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll be making it over and over again for gatherings or family dinners!

Created by

Kyle

Last updated on 2026-02-08T18:45:28.130Z

I first stumbled upon the idea of stuffing jalapeños after a friend mentioned their love for spicy snacks. I couldn’t resist the thought of bringing cream cheese and bacon into the mix. This method of roasting the peppers, rather than frying them, allows all the flavors to meld beautifully while maintaining a slight crunch.

To ensure that the filling stays creamy and flavorful, I like to mix in some shredded cheese as well. Not only does this add richness, but it also helps the filling hold together during baking. Each bite is a delightful blend of spice and creaminess that’s perfect for any occasion.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Perfect balance of spicy and creamy flavors
Great for parties, game days, or a cozy dinner
Easy to customize with your favorite toppings

      

Choosing the Right Peppers

Selecting the right jalapeño peppers can greatly affect the final outcome of your dish. Aim for peppers that are firm and glossy, with shiny skin, as they will have the best flavor and texture. If you're looking for a milder kick, consider using poblano peppers instead, as they have a similar structure but offer a gentler heat. For a spicier version, try serrano peppers; they will elevate the heat level significantly.

If you want to keep some of the heat but still make them accessible for everyone, consider leaving a few seeds in some of the peppers while removing most from others. This mix will create a variety of heat levels in your dish and ensure that everyone has a pepper suited to their taste!

Perfecting Your Filling

The filling for these stuffed peppers is not only creamy but also packed with flavor from the combination of cheeses and bacon. Make sure your cream cheese is fully softened, as this allows for easier blending and ensures a smooth texture in the filling. If you'd like to add an extra layer of flavor, consider incorporating finely chopped green onions or a bit of diced jalapeño for more heat. Adjust the garlic powder according to your preference—just a half teaspoon can be enough to add depth without overpowering the other flavors.

When mixing the filling, pay attention to the consistency; it should be thick enough to hold its shape but still easy to scoop into the pepper halves. If the mixture feels too stiff, adding a tablespoon of sour cream or Greek yogurt can create a more spreadable texture and added tang.

Ingredients

For the Stuffed Peppers

4 large jalapeño peppers
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
4 oz cooked bacon, crumbled
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

Feel free to add other spices or toppings as you like!

Instructions

Prepare the Peppers

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the jalapeños in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes to reduce the spice level.

Make the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated.

Stuff the Peppers

Spoon the cheese mixture into each jalapeño half, filling them generously. Place the stuffed peppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes or until the peppers are tender and the tops are golden brown. Let them cool slightly before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Jalapeño Popper Stuffed Peppers!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, sprinkle leftover bacon bits or extra cheese on top of the stuffed peppers before baking.

Serving Suggestions

These Jalapeño Popper Stuffed Peppers are incredibly versatile and can cater to various occasions. For a fun twist, consider serving them with a dipping sauce; a cool ranch or creamy avocado dip pairs beautifully with the spicy peppers. Alternatively, they can be served atop a bed of lettuce, drizzled with a vinaigrette, turning them into a delightful salad.

To enhance your presentation, sprinkle some chopped cilantro or parsley on top before serving. This not only adds a pop of color but also a fresh flavor that complements the richness of the filling. These stuffed peppers can even be placed on a skewer for easy handling during parties!

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Preparing these stuffed peppers in advance can save time on busy days. You can stuff the peppers a day ahead and store them in the refrigerator, covered tightly with plastic wrap. Just be sure to bake them fresh when you're ready to serve, as this will provide the best texture and flavor. Alternatively, if you're short on time, you can prepare the filling and fill the peppers in the morning, leaving them in the fridge until you're ready to bake them that evening.

If you have leftovers, they're easy to store. Place the cooled stuffed peppers in an airtight container in the fridge, and they should last for 4 to 5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the unbaked peppers. Just pack them in a freezer-safe container or bag with parchment paper to prevent sticking. To bake from frozen, no need to thaw; simply add about 10 minutes to the baking time, checking for tenderness and golden tops before serving.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen jalapeños?

Yes, but fresh jalapeños usually provide a better texture.

→ Can I prepare these in advance?

Absolutely! You can stuff the peppers a day ahead and bake them when you’re ready.

→ How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

You can substitute the bacon with chopped mushrooms or cooked quinoa for added texture.

→ What can I serve with these stuffed peppers?

They pair well with a side salad, tortilla chips, or a cool dip like ranch or sour cream.