Jalapeno Poppers with Onion Dip

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Onion Dip
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 12 large jalapenos, halved and seeded; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp onion powder; 1/4 tsp smoked paprika; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 1 egg, beaten; 1 cup sour cream; 1/2 cup finely chopped sweet onion; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp dried dill; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making Jalapeno Poppers with Onion Dip for gatherings! The combination of spicy jalapenos stuffed with creamy cheese and served alongside a savory onion dip just never fails to impress. Whether it's a game day, party, or simply a cozy night at home, this recipe brings bold flavors to the table. The balance of heat and creaminess, paired with the crunch of breadcrumbs, makes every bite irresistible. I’m excited to share this delicious treat that’s easy to prepare and always a hit with friends and family.

Created by

Lucy Bennett

Last updated on 2026-01-05T22:55:12.370Z

When I first made Jalapeno Poppers, I was amazed at how the spicy heat of the jalapenos complemented the rich, creamy cheese filling. It took a bit of experimentation to find the right balance between heat and flavor, but I’ve finally nailed it. The addition of herbs and spices really elevates the filling, making it even more delicious!

Serving these poppers with my homemade onion dip is truly the icing on the cake. I typically blend sweet onions with sour cream and spices to create a creamy dip that is both tangy and rich. This dip not only complements the poppers but also serves as a great contrast to their heat. It’s a crowd-pleaser every time!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Spicy kick from fresh jalapenos balanced with creamy cheese goodness.
Satisfying crunch from the breadcrumb topping adds amazing texture.
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for parties or game days.

      

Mastering the Art of Stuffing

Stuffing jalapenos can be a delightful yet tricky task. To achieve the perfect popper, ensure the cream cheese is fully softened. This allows it to combine seamlessly with the cheddar, making it easier to spoon into the jalapeno halves. If you're short on time, you can microwave the cream cheese for about 15-20 seconds until soft, but be cautious not to melt it completely. Properly stuffed jalapenos will not only hold their shape but also create a delightful bite with every crunch.

When filling the jalapenos, using a small spoon or a piping bag can help in achieving an even distribution of the cheese mixture. This step is crucial for ensuring every popper is consistently flavorful. Be careful not to overstuff, as this can cause the filling to overflow during baking, leading to a messy outcome. Aim for a slight dome of cheese above the jalapeno edges for that irresistible look when baked.

Enhancing Your Onion Dip

The onion dip is a fantastic accompaniment, but fresh herbs can elevate the flavor profile significantly. Consider adding chopped chives or parsley to introduce a fresh, vibrant note. If you prefer a bit of heat, a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few drops of hot sauce can add a delightful depth. Allow the dip to chill for at least 30 minutes before serving; this not only melds the flavors but also results in a creamier texture that enhances the eating experience.

Don't forget that the base of the dip—sour cream—can be swapped with Greek yogurt for a tangier flavor and added protein. If you're looking to lighten the dish, use reduced-fat versions of the cream cheese and sour cream, but be aware that this may change the dip's consistency slightly.

Creative Serving Suggestions

Presentation can take your jalapeno poppers and onion dip to a whole new level. Consider garnishing the poppers with freshly chopped cilantro or scallions just before serving for a pop of color and flavor. Serving on a rustic wooden board with the onion dip in the center surrounded by the poppers not only looks appealing but encourages sharing. You could also provide a variety of dipping sauces, like ranch or blue cheese, to complement the flavors of the poppers.

If you find yourself with leftovers, you can store the baked poppers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, ensuring they regain their crispiness. Jalapeno poppers are incredibly versatile—you can top them with crumbled bacon or drizzle with a spicy sriracha sauce to mix things up the next time you serve them.

Ingredients

For the Jalapeno Poppers

12 large jalapenos, halved and seeded
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/4 tsp smoked paprika
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 cup breadcrumbs
1 egg, beaten

For the Onion Dip

1 cup sour cream
1/2 cup finely chopped sweet onion
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp dried dill
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Halve the jalapenos lengthwise and remove the seeds. Set aside.

Make the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.

Stuff the Jalapenos

Spoon the cheese mixture into each half of the jalapenos. Dip the stuffed jalapenos in beaten egg, then roll them in breadcrumbs until fully coated.

Bake the Poppers

Arrange the jalapeno poppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 25 minutes until golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.

Prepare the Onion Dip

In a separate bowl, combine sour cream, chopped onion, garlic powder, dill, salt, and pepper. Mix well and chill until ready to serve.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, try adding crumbled bacon or diced chorizo to the cheese filling. Adjust the amount of jalapeno seeds according to your spice preference.

Troubleshooting Tips

If you find that your jalapeno poppers come out soggy, this might be due to excess moisture in the jalapenos themselves. To prevent this, ensure that you dry the jalapenos well after washing. Additionally, using a breadcrumb coating helps absorb some moisture, creating that satisfying crunch. Just remember not to skip the egg wash, as it helps the breadcrumbs adhere better, ensuring a uniform crust.

Another common issue could be undercooked filling. If the cream cheese mixture isn't creamy enough, your poppers might not taste as rich. Ensure the cream cheese is well mixed and that you bake the poppers until the cheese is bubbly and the breadcrumbs are golden brown. If they seem to brown too quickly while baking, tent them with aluminum foil to prevent burning while allowing the filling to cook through.

Variations to Try

For those who enjoy experimenting, you can try different cheese blends for stuffing the jalapenos. A combination of pepper jack and mozzarella offers a nice balance of spice and melty goodness. For a more gourmet touch, consider adding crumbled feta cheese or blue cheese into the mix to provide a bold flavor contrast that pairs beautifully with the spicy peppers.

For a healthier twist, consider baking instead of frying the poppers. Baking not only minimizes fat but also enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients. Additionally, you can use mini bell peppers instead of jalapenos for a sweeter flavor, providing an equally colorful and inviting platter for your guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these poppers ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the jalapenos and filling in advance, just bake them right before serving for best results.

→ What can I substitute for cream cheese?

To make them lighter, consider using ricotta cheese or a dairy-free alternative.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Once cooled, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze the jalapeno poppers?

Absolutely! Freeze the unbaked poppers on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.