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; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Oil for greasing

Highlighted under: Creative Baking Favorites

Jalapeno poppers are one of my favorite appetizers, especially when they're paired with a luscious spinach dip. I love how the heat from the jalapenos contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling, making every bite a perfect blend of flavors. These poppers are not only delicious, but they're also surprisingly easy to make. Whether for a casual gathering or a special occasion, they never fail to impress my guests. So roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into this delightful recipe that’s perfect for sharing!

Created by

Cassandra Reed

Last updated on 2026-01-14T00:57:37.707Z

When I first attempted making jalapeno poppers, I was skeptical about how well the flavors would marry together. However, using a blend of cream cheese and fresh spinach turned out to be a game changer. By sautéing the spinach beforehand, I was able to capture its essence, resulting in a flavorful dip that complements the heat of the jalapenos perfectly.

As I experimented with different seasonings, I discovered that adding a hint of garlic powder and a squeeze of lime really enhances the overall taste. The key is to carefully balance the creaminess of the dip and the spice of the peppers, and this recipe nails that combination effortlessly!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        The ideal blend of creamy filling and spicy jalapenos
Perfect for parties or cozy nights in with friends
Quick to prepare, making it a hassle-free appetizer

      

The Perfect Balance of Heat and Creaminess

The spicy heat of jalapenos is perfectly complemented by the creamy filling, making each popper a delightful explosion of flavors. The cream cheese serves as the base, providing a rich, smooth texture that balances out the jalapeno's spice. Incorporating mozzarella adds a stretchy, gooey element that creates a satisfying mouthfeel. If you prefer a milder flavor, opt for slightly less spicy jalapenos or remove additional seeds to dial down the heat even more.

In this recipe, the spinach not only adds a burst of color but also contributes a fresh, earthy flavor that brightens the richness of the cheese. The garlic and onion powders enhance the overall taste profile without overpowering the star ingredients. It’s essential to mix the filling until smooth to ensure a cohesive filling that coats the jalapenos evenly. Well-mixed fillings also prevent the risk of separation during baking.

Essential Tips for Baking

When baking the poppers, it's crucial to monitor your jalapenos closely as oven temperatures can vary. You'll know they’re done when the edges of the jalapenos appear slightly charred and the cheese filling turns a beautiful golden brown. If you want an extra crispy finish, consider broiling them for the last 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning. Broiling creates that desired crunchy texture on top while remaining soft inside.

For serving, let the jalapeno poppers cool for a few minutes post-baking before dive into them. This resting time helps the filling set slightly, making them easier to handle. Pair these poppers with a side of ranch or a zesty dipping sauce made of sour cream and lime juice to enhance the overall flavor experience. These options complement the heat wonderfully and provide a cooling effect.

Ingredients

To make these irresistible jalapeno poppers, gather the following ingredients:

Ingredients

12 large jalapenos
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Oil for greasing

Now that you have everything laid out, let’s move on to the fun part—making the poppers!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious jalapeno poppers:

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Carefully slice each jalapeno in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Consider wearing gloves for this step to avoid irritation.

Make the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, chopped spinach, mozzarella cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and well combined.

Fill the Jalapenos

Using a spoon, generously fill each jalapeno half with the creamy mixture, ensuring it’s well packed.

Bake the Popers

Place the filled jalapenos on a greased baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes, or until the jalapenos are tender and the tops are golden brown.

Once baked, let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add bacon bits to the filling for an extra savory touch or adjust the spices according to your heat preference.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

If you're looking for a lighter version of these jalapeno poppers, consider substituting the cream cheese with Greek yogurt. This swap maintains a creamy texture while reducing calories and adding protein. For a vegan option, you can use cashew cream or a store-bought dairy-free cheese, ensuring it melts well to mimic the original recipe's consistency.

Another delicious twist is to add crumbled bacon or diced chorizo into the cheese filling for an extra layer of flavor. You can also experiment with different herbs or spices, such as smoked paprika or cilantro, which can elevate the taste profile. Remember to adjust seasoning since some ingredients can have a more potent flavor.

Storage and Make-Ahead Options

These jalapeno poppers can be made ahead of time, making them perfect for entertaining. You can prepare and fill the jalapenos, then store them unbaked in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just cover them tightly with plastic wrap to prevent drying out. When ready to bake, follow the same baking instructions, adding a few extra minutes if they're going into the oven straight from the fridge.

To store leftover poppers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’re best consumed within 2-3 days. Reheating them is simple; just pop them back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. For freezing, arrange the unbaked poppers on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a container or bag for up to a month, baking from frozen when ready; just extend the baking time slightly.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these poppers ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the filling and stuff the jalapenos in advance. Just store them in the fridge and bake them when ready to serve.

→ What can I substitute for cream cheese?

You can use ricotta cheese or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative if you need a substitute.

→ Are these spicy?

The heat level depends on the size and variety of the jalapenos used. You can de-seed more thoroughly to reduce the heat.

→ Can I grill these instead of baking?

Absolutely! Grill the stuffed jalapenos over medium heat until they are cooked through and slightly charred.