Jalapeno Poppers with Feta Cheese

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Feta Cheese
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 poppers
Ingredients: 12 jalapenos, halved and seeded; 8 oz feta cheese, crumbled; 4 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tablespoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil for brushing

Highlighted under: Comfort Inspiration

I absolutely love making Jalapeno Poppers with Feta Cheese for my gatherings. The spicy kick from the jalapenos perfectly balances with the creamy, tangy feta, creating a delightful explosion of flavors in every bite. These poppers are not just easy to prepare, but they're also a crowd-pleaser. Whether it's for a game day or a festive party, these poppers always get rave reviews. I can’t resist their charm, and I’m excited to share this irresistible recipe with you!

Created by

Esmeray Collins

Last updated on 2026-01-06T14:01:34.874Z

When I first tried Jalapeno Poppers with Feta Cheese, I was instantly hooked. The combination of the crunchy exterior and the creamy filling is simply irresistible. I experimented a bit by adding some herbs, which really took these poppers to the next level. If you want a bit more heat, feel free to leave some of the seeds in the jalapenos, but I find that removing them offers a nice balance.

I've found that baking them instead of frying makes them lighter and just as delicious without sacrificing flavor. Pairing them with a cool dipping sauce is also a great way to enhance their spiciness. Trust me; these poppers will be the star of your appetizer table!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Spicy heat balanced by creamy feta cheese
Easy to make and perfect for gatherings
A unique twist on a classic appetizer

      

Perfecting the Jalapeno Preparation

When preparing jalapenos, selecting the right level of heat is essential. Opt for firm, bright green jalapenos, which typically offer a balanced flavor profile. If you prefer milder poppers, ensure you remove all the seeds and membranes, as these contain most of the heat. For those who like it spicier, you can leave some seeds in or choose larger jalapenos that tend to have a higher heat level.

Once halved and seeded, you can lightly char the jalapenos on a grill or under a broiler for a few minutes to deepen their flavor. This step adds a smoky note that complements the creamy filling beautifully. Just be cautious not to burn them; a few minutes should suffice for that desirable, roasted taste.

Understanding the Filling's Role

The mixture of creamy feta and softened cream cheese is central to the creamy texture of these poppers. The feta adds a tangy richness, while the cream cheese ensures a smooth, spreadable consistency that holds well in the jalapenos. Make sure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature, as this will make incorporating the cheeses much easier and avoid lumps in your filling.

I often add a bit of extra shredded cheddar for its melty quality, which enhances the gooeyness of the poppers once baked. If you're looking for a healthier version, you can substitute low-fat cream cheese and use a reduced-fat cheddar, keeping the taste largely intact while trimming some calories.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your Jalapeno Poppers:

Ingredients

12 jalapenos, halved and seeded
8 oz feta cheese, crumbled
4 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for brushing

Make sure to adjust the amount of jalapenos depending on how spicy you want your poppers to be.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Jalapeno Poppers:

Prep the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Carefully slice the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds. Place them on a baking sheet.

Make the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the crumbled feta cheese, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Stuff the Jalapenos

Spoon the cheese mixture generously into each jalapeno half, filling them well.

Bake the Poppers

Brush the filled jalapenos with olive oil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve

Let the poppers cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm, perhaps with a dipping sauce on the side!

Feel free to modify the cheese blend according to your taste preferences!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor kick, consider adding some chopped bacon to the cheese mixture. It adds a delightful smokiness paired with the spiciness of the jalapenos.

Tips for Serving and Enjoying

These Jalapeno Poppers are best served warm, as this enhances the flavors and the creaminess of the cheese. I recommend letting them cool for about 5 minutes after removing them from the oven to avoid burning your mouth! You can also pair them with a refreshing dipping sauce like ranch or a cool yogurt-based dip, which helps to balance the heat.

To impress your guests, consider garnishing them with a sprinkle of extra chopped parsley or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an added touch of flavor and presentation. For a more adventurous twist, try adding some diced bacon into the filling for a smoky accent.

Storage and Make-Ahead Options

These poppers can easily be made ahead of time. Once you assemble them, store the stuffed jalapenos covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This not only saves time but allows the flavors to meld together, making them even tastier when baked fresh.

If you have leftovers, store the baked poppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply place them on a baking sheet at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and the cheese is melted again. This ensures they're still delicious, even a few days after the initial bake.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the poppers ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. Bake them when you’re ready to serve.

→ What dipping sauces go well with jalapeno poppers?

Creamy ranch dressing, sour cream, or a spicy salsa are great options for dipping.

→ How can I reduce the heat level?

Removing all the seeds and membranes from the jalapenos will significantly reduce the heat. You can also use milder varieties of peppers.

→ Can I freeze the poppers?

Yes, you can freeze them before baking. Just ensure they are in an airtight container. Bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.