Jalapeno Poppers with Creamy Spinach Dip

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Creamy Spinach Dip
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 poppers
Ingredients: 12 large jalapenos; 1 cup cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped; 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup breadcrumbs; Olive oil spray for baking

Highlighted under: Inspired Cooking

I absolutely love making Jalapeno Poppers with Creamy Spinach Dip because they combine the perfect balance of heat and rich, creamy flavor. Every bite offers a delightful crunch, followed by a deliciously cheesy center that never fails to impress guests. Whether it's a game day snack or a party appetizer, these poppers are always the highlight of the spread. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to whip up, allowing me to enjoy my time with friends while the flavors meld beautifully in the oven.

Created by

Willow Harries

Last updated on 2026-01-14T01:33:35.115Z

Creating the perfect Jalapeno Poppers with Creamy Spinach Dip has become a staple in my home. I’ve experimented with various fillings, but the spinach and cream cheese mix adds a lush texture that elevates the poppers to an entirely new level. The key is to spice the dip precisely and not skimp on the herbs, balancing the heat from the jalapenos.

After many trials, I realized that roasting the jalapenos slightly before filling them not only enhances their flavor but also ensures they cook evenly. It’s a simple yet effective tip that made a world of difference in my final results. Now, each popper is bursting with flavor and has a satisfying crunch when bitten into!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        The perfect blend of spicy jalapenos and creamy dip.
An easy-to-follow recipe that impresses every time.
Great for any gathering or casual get-together.

      

Choosing the Right Jalapenos

When selecting jalapenos for this recipe, look for firm peppers with smooth, shiny skin. Fresher jalapenos not only provide a better crunch but also enhance the overall flavor of your poppers. If you're sensitive to heat, pick smaller jalapenos; they tend to be milder. On the other hand, larger jalapenos usually pack a bit more punch, so be sure to taste one before committing to your batch.

To ensure an even cooking process, try to pick jalapenos that are similar in size. This uniformity helps them cook evenly in the oven, resulting in a consistent texture and flavor throughout. Remember, if you prefer a spicier filling, leaving some seeds or membranes can kick up the heat without altering the creamy, comforting essence of the filling.

Perfecting the Creamy Spinach Filling

The creamy spinach filling is the heart of this dish. Using softened cream cheese is essential as it mixes smoothly with the other ingredients, creating a luscious texture. Be sure to mix it well until it's glossy; lumps can lead to uneven distribution and a less enjoyable eating experience. If you want to add a tangy twist, consider using Greek yogurt in place of sour cream. This substitution keeps the filling creamy while adding a protein boost.

Chopping the spinach finely is crucial for even distribution. If not properly chopped, it can overpower each bite and affect the texture of your poppers. For added depth, you might also stir in cooked and crumbled bacon or diced bell peppers to create variations of this classic recipe, adding layers of flavor that complement the spicy jalapenos.

Serving and Storing Tips

These jalapeno poppers are best served fresh from the oven, allowing guests to enjoy the crispy exterior and warm, melty interior. If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, which will help restore their crunchiness rather than opting for a microwave that can make them soggy.

For entertaining, consider serving these poppers with a cooling dip like ranch or yogurt sauce. The cool creaminess balances the heat of the jalapenos, making them even more enjoyable. If you're scaling up for a larger crowd, these poppers freeze well before baking. Just assemble them, freeze on a baking sheet, then transfer to a bag once frozen. You can bake them directly from the freezer, just increase the cooking time by 5-10 minutes.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Jalapeno Poppers

For the Poppers

12 large jalapenos
1 cup cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup sour cream
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup breadcrumbs
Olive oil spray for baking

Instructions

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Carefully slice each jalapeno in half and remove the seeds and membranes for less heat, if desired.

Make the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, sour cream, chopped spinach, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well blended.

Stuff the Jalapenos

Spoon the creamy spinach mixture into each jalapeno half, pressing down gently to pack them well.

Coat with Breadcrumbs

Sprinkle the breadcrumbs over the stuffed jalapenos and lightly spray with olive oil.

Bake the Poppers

Place the jalapeno poppers on a baking sheet and bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.

Pro Tips

Feel free to add some cooked bacon bits to the filling for extra flavor and texture! Also, for a smoky twist, try adding some smoked paprika into the filling.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your poppers come out too soggy, it could be due to excess moisture in the jalapenos or a lack of breadcrumb coating. Make sure to pat the jalapenos dry after slicing and consider using panko breadcrumbs for an extra crunch. Alternatively, you can bake at a slightly higher temperature but keep an eye on them to avoid burning.

Another common issue is the filling overflowing during baking. To prevent this, ensure that you pack the filling tightly without overstuffing. You can also gently flatten the filling with a spatula before adding breadcrumbs; this helps maintain the integrity of the poppers while they cook.

Flavor Variations to Try

Experimenting with different cheeses can elevate the flavor profile of your poppers. For a smoky flavor, substitute smoked gouda or pepper jack cheese in place of cheddar. This not only adds a unique twist but also complements the jalapenos' heat beautifully. Consider introducing herbs like dill or cilantro into the filling for a refreshing taste.

For a more decadent treat, you could wrap each jalapeno popper in bacon before baking. This will require adjusting the baking time, as the poppers will need an extra 5-10 minutes to ensure the bacon is crispy. Not only does the bacon add flavor, but it also creates a delicious contrast in textures.

Make-Ahead Strategies

To streamline your prep process, you can prepare the filling a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container to keep it fresh. Just be sure to give it a good stir before stuffing the jalapenos when you're ready to bake.

Another make-ahead option is to stuff the jalapenos and freeze them unbaked. This allows you to have poppers on hand for spontaneous gatherings. When it's time to serve, bake directly from frozen, extending the cook time as mentioned earlier. This way, you can enjoy fresh, hot poppers without all the last-minute fuss.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make Jalapeno Poppers ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the stuffed jalapenos and refrigerate them for a few hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

→ How can I reduce the spiciness of the jalapenos?

Removing the seeds and membranes will significantly reduce the heat. You can also soak the jalapenos in water for a few minutes before preparing.

→ What can I substitute for cream cheese?

You can substitute cream cheese with Greek yogurt for a lighter option, although the texture will be slightly different.

→ Can I freeze these poppers?

Yes, you can freeze the uncooked poppers. Just layer them in an airtight container, freeze, and bake them from frozen when ready to serve.