Jalapeno Poppers with Onion Dip

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Onion Dip
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 fresh jalapenos; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil for drizzling; 1 cup sour cream; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1 cup finely chopped onion; 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce; 1 tsp garlic salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making Jalapeno Poppers with Onion Dip for gatherings. The blend of spicy jalapenos and creamy cheese filling is irresistible, and pairing it with a robust onion dip elevates the flavor profile. Each bite brings a perfect mix of heat and creaminess, and it’s a dish that always gets rave reviews. I enjoy preparing this recipe because it feels like a fun challenge to stuff the peppers just right. Plus, the satisfying crunch from the breadcrumbs adds a delightful texture that everyone appreciates.

Created by

Rosie Mitchell

Last updated on 2026-01-05T23:19:13.943Z

Making Jalapeno Poppers with Onion Dip has become a cherished tradition in my kitchen. I remember the first time I crafted them; the combination of flavors was so enticing that I kept refining the recipe. The best part is the creamy filling that balances the heat from the jalapenos perfectly. Whether it’s for a game-day snack or a festive gathering, these poppers never fail to impress.

One detail I learned through trial and error is to soak the jalapenos in water before stuffing them. This simple step helps reduce some heat while keeping them crunchy. Plus, ensuring that the cheese is at room temperature makes for easier stuffing, so don’t skip that tip if you want to get it just right!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        The perfect balance of spice and creaminess in every bite.
A delightful crunch from the golden breadcrumbs.
An easy-to-make appetizer that impresses guests.

      

Tips for Perfectly Stuffed Jalapenos

When prepping your jalapenos, remember that removing the seeds and membranes is crucial for balancing the spice level. If you prefer a spicy kick, consider leaving some seeds intact. To avoid any lingering heat on your hands, wear gloves while handling the jalapenos. This simple step can save you from unwanted burning sensations later.

For the cheese filling, using room temperature cream cheese is key. It allows for easier mixing and ensures a smooth, creamy texture. If you find the mixture too thick, a splash of milk can help achieve the desired consistency. Aim for a filling that’s thick enough to hold in the jalapeno but creamy enough to pipe easily.

Breadcrumb Coating Secrets

Choosing the right breadcrumbs can make all the difference in texture. Panko breadcrumbs give a lighter, crunchier coating compared to regular breadcrumbs. If you want an herbaceous flair, try mixing in some dried herbs like oregano or paprika into your breadcrumbs before sprinkling them on top. This adds depth to the flavor profile of your poppers.

Drizzling olive oil is not just for flavor; it promotes browning and crispiness. A light hand is all that’s needed here. Too much oil can lead to sogginess. Aim to coat the tops just enough to glisten but avoid pooling on the baking sheet.

Innovative Variations and Storage Tips

If you’re looking to switch things up, consider adding cooked bacon bits to the cheese filling for a smoky undertone. Alternatively, for a vegetarian-friendly option, you could swap out the cheddar cheese for a vegan cheese alternative, ensuring a similar creamy texture without using dairy. Experiment with the filling by incorporating different spices like smoked paprika or cayenne for added complexity.

These jalapeno poppers can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator, covered, for up to a day. For freezing, arrange uncooked poppers on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake straight from the freezer, adding an additional 5-10 minutes to the cooking time for perfectly cooked, crispy poppers.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to prepare the jalapeno poppers and onion dip:

For the Jalapeno Poppers

12 fresh jalapenos
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for drizzling

For the Onion Dip

1 cup sour cream
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 cup finely chopped onion
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp garlic salt
1/2 tsp black pepper

Now that you have everything ready, let’s move to the cooking steps!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create delicious jalapeno poppers and onion dip:

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes for a milder taste. Set aside.

Make the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended.

Stuff the Jalapenos

Gently spoon the cheese mixture into each jalapeno half. Press down slightly to ensure it’s packed well.

Coat with Breadcrumbs

Sprinkle breadcrumbs over the stuffed jalapenos and drizzle with olive oil to help them crisp up while baking.

Bake

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

Prepare the Onion Dip

While the poppers bake, mix the sour cream, mayonnaise, chopped onion, Worcestershire sauce, garlic salt, and black pepper in a bowl until well combined.

Serve

Once the jalapeno poppers are baked, serve them hot with the onion dip on the side for dipping.

Enjoy your homemade jalapeno poppers with fresh onion dip!

Pro Tips

For extra crunch, try adding some grated Parmesan cheese to the breadcrumbs before coating the poppers. This will elevate the flavor and texture even more.

Serving Suggestions

While the onion dip is a delightful pairing, consider serving these jalapeno poppers with a side of homemade salsa for a refreshing contrast. The sharp acidity of the salsa balances the creaminess of the poppers beautifully. Additionally, you could offer a cooling dip like tzatziki or ranch dressing to help tone down the heat for those who may find jalapenos too spicy.

For an impressive presentation, garnish the onion dip with freshly chopped chives or a sprinkle of paprika before serving. Not only does this add a pop of color, but it also enhances the appeal of the dip. I like to arrange the poppers on a platter with toothpicks for easy serving at parties.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your jalapeno poppers don’t seem crispy enough after baking, consider broiling them for the last 2-3 minutes. Keep a close eye during this time to prevent any burning. This step can help achieve that golden-brown top that’s visually appealing and has the right crunch.

On the other hand, if your poppers are overcooked, they may turn mushy. This can happen if your oven temperature is too high or they are left in for too long. To avoid this, always check for doneness a few minutes before the suggested cooking time. Look for firm, but tender jalapenos with a bubbly, golden filling as your cue for perfect poppers.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these jalapeno poppers ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the jalapenos and filling ahead, stuff them, and store in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just pop them in the oven when you're ready to serve.

→ How spicy are these jalapeno poppers?

The spiciness can vary depending on the jalapenos used. Removing the seeds and membranes can significantly reduce the heat, but feel free to leave some in for a spicier kick.

→ Can I use different cheeses?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like pepper jack for added spice, or mozzarella for a milder flavor.

→ How do I store leftover jalapeno poppers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to retain their crispy texture.