Jalapeno Poppers with Spinach Filling
Highlighted under: Everyday World Food Recipes
I love making Jalapeno Poppers with Spinach Filling because they are the perfect combination of heat and creaminess. Each bite delivers a delightful crunch, followed by the rich flavors of cheese and fresh spinach. Not only are they a fantastic appetizer for gatherings, but they also provide a fun way to use up those extra jalapeños. I often make a big batch since they disappear faster than I can serve them. Trust me, these poppers are sure to be a hit at your next get-together!
One evening, while experimenting with appetizers, I decided to stuff jalapeños with a creamy spinach filling. The spicy pop of the jalapeño combined beautifully with the smoothness of cream cheese and fresh spinach—a match made in flavor heaven! It took a couple of tries to get the proportions just right, but once I did, I couldn't stop sharing them with friends.
When making these poppers, I realized that using a mix of cheeses enhances the flavor profile, giving each popper an extra layer of richness that everyone loves. I also recommend adjusting the amount of spinach based on your taste; it really lightens up the filling while still keeping it satisfying.
Why You'll Love These Jalapeno Poppers
- Creamy spinach filling that balances the heat of jalapeños
- Perfect for parties and game day snacks
- Easy to customize with different cheeses or add-ins
Choosing the Right Jalapeños
When selecting jalapeños for this recipe, look for firm, bright green peppers. They should be medium-sized for the ideal balance of heat and fleshiness. Larger jalapeños might be milder but can also cut down on the filling-to-pepper ratio, affecting your overall flavor experience. If heat is a concern, you can substitute with Anaheim or poblano peppers, which are larger and milder but still provide a satisfying texture.
Don’t be afraid to taste a small piece of your jalapeño before starting. The heat can vary significantly from one pepper to another, so you might want to adjust your filling ingredients accordingly. Additionally, if you're preparing these for a mixed crowd with varying spice tolerances, consider creating some milder versions by keeping the seeds and membranes in a few peppers.
Mastering the Filling
The cream cheese serves as a rich base for our filling, providing not just creaminess but also acting as a binder for the other ingredients. Be sure to let it soften at room temperature for at least an hour before mixing to ensure seamless blending. If you want to experiment with flavors, try adding chopped sun-dried tomatoes or crumbled bacon to enhance the taste profile of your spinach filling.
The combination of cheddar and mozzarella creates a pleasing melty texture. For a stronger flavor, consider using pepper jack or smoked gouda instead of mozzarella. Just remember to shred the cheese yourself if possible; pre-shredded cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that can affect the creamy consistency of your filling.
Baking Tips for Perfect Poppers
When baking your jalapeño poppers, keep an eye on the oven towards the last few minutes of cooking. You want the filling to be golden brown and slightly bubbly, ideally around 25-30 minutes depending on your oven's accuracy. If you prefer a crispier topping, you can briefly broil them for an additional 1-2 minutes once they are baked—just keep a close watch to avoid burning.
If you're making these poppers ahead of time, you can stuff the jalapeños and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. If you're looking for a long-term option, they can also be frozen after stuffing. Just place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.
Ingredients
Jalapeno Poppers
- 12 medium-sized jalapeños
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
- Olive oil for drizzling
Ensure the jalapeños are fresh for the best flavor.
Instructions
Prepare the Jalapeños
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the jalapeños in half lengthwise, removing the seeds and membranes for a milder flavor. Set aside.
Make the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, chopped spinach, cheddar, mozzarella, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined and creamy.
Stuff the Jalapeños
Using a spoon, fill each jalapeño half with the spinach cheese mixture. If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for added crunch.
Bake the Poppers
Place the stuffed jalapeños on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle lightly with olive oil. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the jalapeños are tender and the filling is bubbly and golden.
Serve and Enjoy
Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Serve warm and enjoy the delicious combination of flavors!
Pair these poppers with your favorite dipping sauce, if desired.
Pro Tips
- For an extra kick, consider adding diced jalapeños to the filling or topping with a spicy sauce before serving.
Storage and Reheating
Leftover jalapeño poppers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. For best results when reheating, place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to regain their crispiness. Avoid using the microwave as it can make them soggy.
If you plan to freeze the baked poppers, allow them to cool completely before transferring them to a freezer-friendly container. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, bake directly from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, adding a bit of olive oil to help recapture the crunchy texture.
Serving Suggestions
For a fun presentation, serve the jalapeño poppers on a rustic wooden board alongside a selection of dips, such as sour cream, guacamole, or a smoky salsa. This creates a delightful contrast to the poppers. A sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro or chives on top adds a pop of color and freshness.
These poppers also make a fantastic addition to a charcuterie board. Position them among olives, cured meats, and a variety of cheeses. Their vibrant appearance and delicious flavors make them a standout item that can complement a range of snacks. Remember to adjust your toppings based on the theme of your gathering!
Variations to Try
Feel free to experiment with different fillings to suit your taste. Adding ingredients like crumbled feta, roasted red peppers, or even a hint of chili powder can reinvent this classic appetizer. For a touch of sweetness, consider incorporating diced pineapple or roasted corn into your filling mix, balancing the heat with a hint of natural sweetness.
You can also make these poppers gluten-free by omitting the breadcrumbs or substituting them with crushed gluten-free crackers or panko. Additionally, for a healthier version, try using Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese, though this may alter the creaminess slightly, so adjust seasoning accordingly.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make these poppers ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the jalapeños and filling ahead of time and store them in the fridge. Bake them just before serving.
→ What other fillings can I use?
Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, herbs, or even cooked bacon for added flavor.
→ Are they spicy?
The heat depends on the jalapeños used. Removing the seeds and membranes reduces the spice level.
→ Can I freeze the stuffed jalapeños?
Absolutely! Freeze them before baking, and simply add a few minutes to the cooking time when baking from frozen.
Jalapeno Poppers with Spinach Filling
I love making Jalapeno Poppers with Spinach Filling because they are the perfect combination of heat and creaminess. Each bite delivers a delightful crunch, followed by the rich flavors of cheese and fresh spinach. Not only are they a fantastic appetizer for gatherings, but they also provide a fun way to use up those extra jalapeños. I often make a big batch since they disappear faster than I can serve them. Trust me, these poppers are sure to be a hit at your next get-together!
Created by: Elowen Carter
Recipe Type: Everyday World Food Recipes
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 12 poppers
What You'll Need
Jalapeno Poppers
- 12 medium-sized jalapeños
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
- Olive oil for drizzling
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the jalapeños in half lengthwise, removing the seeds and membranes for a milder flavor. Set aside.
In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, chopped spinach, cheddar, mozzarella, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined and creamy.
Using a spoon, fill each jalapeño half with the spinach cheese mixture. If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for added crunch.
Place the stuffed jalapeños on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle lightly with olive oil. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the jalapeños are tender and the filling is bubbly and golden.
Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Serve warm and enjoy the delicious combination of flavors!
Extra Tips
- For an extra kick, consider adding diced jalapeños to the filling or topping with a spicy sauce before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 240 kcal
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
- Sodium: 350mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 12g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 8g