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    Home » Recipes

    Posted on: Feb 11, 2023 · This post may contain affiliate links ·

    Baked Jalapeno Poppers (vegetarian)

    63 shares
    Jump to Recipe

    Skip the processed frozen poppers and opt for these homemade Baked Jalapeno Poppers made with jalapeno, cream cheese, and panko crumbs.
    Baked Jalapeno Poppers (vegetarian, gluten-free option)

    Growing up, my biggest weakness was TGIF's frozen Jalapeno Poppers - they are seriously so good, but also super processed. I decided to come up with my own version years ago and somehow this recipe still hits the spot.

    These super easy Stuffed Jalapeno Poppers are creamy, cheesy, and crunchy. I promise you won't miss the fried stuff because they're just that good. These Baked Jalapeno Poppers are made with real ingredients and they're scrumptious. Hope you guys try them.
    Baked Jalapeno Poppers (vegetarian, gluten-free option)

    What are Baked Jalapeno Poppers?

    Baked Jalapeno Poppers are essentially sliced jalapenos that are stuffed with a cream cheese filling. Instead of deep frying the poppers, bake them. The jalapeno is then pressed onto panko crumbs and baked in the oven. These are the BEST Jalapeno Poppers that you will make as they are creamy, indulgent, and so easy to make.

    Baked Jalapeno Poppers are:

    Baked, not fried
    Scrumptious
    Creamy
    Cheesy
    Delicious
    Vegetarian

    Ingredients for Baked Jalapeno Poppers

    Jalapenos: Definitely use jalapenos and remove the seeds.

    Panko Breadcrumbs: Alternatively, you may use Italian or Plain breadcrumbs, but I prefer panko bread crumbs.

    Cream Cheese

    Mexican Cheese Blend: A classic Mexican Cheese Blend or you may use medium cheddar cheese, or pepper jack cheese - both will work.

    Milk

    Spices: Paprika, Black Pepper, Garlic Powder, Cayenne Pepper, Salt.

    Baked Jalapeno Poppers (vegetarian, gluten-free option)

    How to make Baked Jalapeno Poppers recipe step by step?

    Prep

    1. Start by pre-heating the oven to 400 degrees. In a bowl, add panko bread crumbs, ½ to 1 teaspoon of Cayenne Pepper, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix. Set aside.
    2. In another bowl, combine cream cheese, milk, Mexican cheddar cheese, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt into a bowl.
    3. Mix all the ingredients well.
    4. Slice the top of the jalapeno. Then slice it in half.
    5. Deseed the jalapenos completely.
    Baked Jalapeno Poppers (vegetarian, gluten-free option)

    Assemble

    1. Take a spoonful of the cream cheese mixture.
    2. Spread the cream cheese inside the jalapeno half.
    3. Dip the cream cheese side of the jalapeno in panko crumbs.
    4. Place on a baking sheet tray.

    Bake

    1. Place the baking tray in the oven.
    2. Bake in the oven at 400 degrees for 20-25 minutes until golden brown. Your baked poppers are ready. Serve with ranch dressing and ketchup.

    Serving Suggestions

    Jalapeno Poppers are a delicious snacky appetizer or side. They would the perfect side to burgers. You can also pair these with appetizers such as Buffalo Wings or Mexican Stuffed Mushrooms.

    For the dipping sauce: I love jalapeno poppers with a side of ranch dressing and ketchup. You can also serve them up with blue cheese, but I loathe the taste of blue cheese so I can't.

    Tips on making Baked Jalapeno Poppers:

    • Slice the jalapenos in half and deseed completely.
    • Prepare the panko crumb mixture.
    • Prepare the cream cheese filling.
    • Stuff each half of the jalapeno with the cream cheese filling.
    • Then dip each jalapeno into the panko crumb mixture.
    • Bake at 400 degrees for 20-25 minutes. I baked these in the toaster oven rather than a proper oven.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    1. Can I make this recipe vegan, gluten-free?

    YES!

    For Vegan Jalapeno Poppers - use vegan cream cheese and Mexican cheese.

    For Gluten-free Jalapeno Poppers - use gluten-free panko bread crumbs.

    2. How do I cut the Jalapenos?

    First, slice the head of the jalapeno off.

    Second, slice each jalapeno in half - lengthwise.

    Then, deseed each half of the jalapeno.

    3. Are Baked Jalapeno Poppers healthy?

    Well, I wouldn't exactly call this recipe healthy. With that said, it is a healthier option compared to the real thing. There is still a good amount of cheese and cream cheese in this recipe so this recipe is definitely not healthy.

    4. What kind of cream cheese should I use?

    I love using Philadelphia Cream Cheese, but I've also used organic cream cheese from Whole Foods. Both work really well.

    For reduced-fat, you can also use Neufchatel cream cheese which tastes amazing - it's more like whipped cream cheese and you can find this at any grocery store.

    5. What are Jalapeno Popper's filling ideas?

    The cream cheese filling is made with cream cheese, cheese, and spices.

    Here are some additional filling options: 

    • You can chop up some bacon and add it to the cream cheese filling.
    • Chopped scallions or chives would be delicious in the filling.
    • You can even add a touch of tomato paste or marinara sauce for a slight pizza flavor.
    • Olives and sun-dried tomatoes combo would be lovely in here too.

    6. What can I use instead of jalapenos?

    If you're not a fan of jalapenos, you can use red, yellow, or orange bell peppers. I find these peppers to be a tad bit sweeter than green bell peppers. Follow the rest of the recipe exactly.

    7. Can I make Air Fryer Jalapeno Poppers?

    Absolutely! I can imagine these would taste amazing in the air fryer. Place them in the air fryer at 375 degrees for 8 minutes and check to see if they need more time.

    8. Aside from the Mexican Blend Cheese, what other cheese can I use?

    You can use Cheddar Cheese, Monterey Jack Cheese, Pepper Jack Cheese, or Colby Cheese.

    Baked Jalapeno Poppers (vegetarian, gluten-free option)

    More Cheesy Recipes!

    • Jalapeno Popper Garlic Bread
    • Mexican Stuffed Mushrooms
    • Masala Corn Spinach Toastie
    • Burrata Caprese Crostini
    • Tomato Onion Pepper Cheese Toastie

    Baked Jalapeno Poppers

    Vegetarian, Vegan option, Gluten-free option
    Skip the processed frozen poppers and opt for these homemade Baked Jalapeno Poppers made with jalapeno, cream cheese, and panko crumbs.
    5 from 8 votes
    Print Pin Rate
    Course: Appetizer
    Cuisine: Mexican
    Servings: 18 jalapeno poppers
    Prep Time: 15 minutes
    Cook Time: 25 minutes
    Total Time: 40 minutes
    Calories: 53kcal
    Author: Nisha

    Equipment

    • Baking Tray
    • Mixing Bowls

    Ingredients

    for the jalapenos

    • 9 jalapenos, sliced in half & deseeded

    for the crumb mixture

    • ¾ cup Japanese panko crumbs
    • ¼ teaspoon paprika
    • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
    • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
    • ¼ teaspoon salt

    for the cream cheese filling

    • 4 ounces cream cheese
    • ¾ cup Mexican blend cheddar cheese
    • 3 tablespoon milk
    • ⅓ teaspoon cayenne pepper
    • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
    • pinch of salt

    Instructions

    Prep

    • Start by pre-heating the oven to 400 degrees. In a bowl, add panko crumbs, ½ to 1 teaspoon of Cayenne Pepper, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix. Set aside.
    • In another bowl, combine cream cheese, milk, Mexican cheddar cheese, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt into a bowl. 
    • Mix all the ingredients well.
    • Slice the top of the jalapeno. Then slice it in half.
    • Deseed the jalapenos completely.

    Assemble

    • Take a spoonful of the cream cheese mixture.
    • Spread the cream cheese inside the jalapeno half.
    • Dip the cream cheese side of the jalapeno in panko crumbs.
    • Place on a baking sheet tray.

    Bake

    • Place the baking tray in the oven.
    • Bake in the oven at 400 degrees for 20-25 minutes until golden brown. Serve with ranch dressing and ketchup.

    Notes

    For a vegan option - use vegan cream cheese and Mexican cheese.
    For a gluten-free option - use gluten-free panko crumbs.
    * This recipe was first posted in March 2012. 

    Nutrition

    Calories: 53kcalCarbohydrates: 3gProtein: 2gFat: 4gSaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 11mgSodium: 100mgPotassium: 42mgFiber: 0.3gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 213IUVitamin C: 8mgCalcium: 46mgIron: 0.2mg
    Keyword Jalapeno Poppers
    Tried this recipe?Mention @honeywhatscooking or tag #honeywhatscooking!

    Pin & Enjoy!
    Baked Jalapeno Poppers #bakedjalapenopoppers #jalapenopoppers #vegetarianappetizer

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    63 shares

    Reader Interactions

    Comments

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      Recipe Rating




    1. Khushboo says

      March 26, 2012 at 6:04 am

      Wow these look amazing...what is it about cheese and jalapenos that go so well together? I don't care if the cheese which the cinema serves nachos with is processed- I love every bite of that gooey goodness! Another processed favorite is undoubtedly Oreos: trans fat or not, I will never rule them out of my diet!

      Reply
    2. Tina says

      March 26, 2012 at 11:55 am

      This is a favorite treat here in Texas. While I have many of these, I never really taken the time to make them. Most likely due to the mess of deep frying, but your method here does put a whole new spin on things. Baking is healthier and easier. These do look quite addictive-yum!

      Reply
    3. Ameena says

      March 26, 2012 at 3:31 pm

      I used to love the mozzarella sticks that TGIF used to sell in the frozen section. Those were amazing!! And the Texas Toast from Pepperidge Farm I think? But I haven't had either in a long, long time now!

      These look delicious.

      Reply
    4. Josie says

      March 26, 2012 at 4:23 pm

      These. Sound. Amazing. Such a good party food!
      xo Josie
      http://www.winksmilestyle.com

      Reply
    5. Baker Street says

      March 27, 2012 at 6:05 am

      Your first picture is just drool inducing. 🙂

      Reply
    6. Mandy says

      March 27, 2012 at 6:53 am

      Yum!! Those look even tastier than the frozen jalapeno poppers. My processed food weakness is Hot & Spicy cheez its. They are so addicting.

      Mandy
      Kini Style & Klury.com

      Reply
    7. Parita @ myinnershakti says

      March 27, 2012 at 12:56 pm

      I love that you said "live a little!" Haha! These look amazing. This recipe will come in handy when I have to be domestic and host a dinner party in the near future! 🙂

      Reply
    8. Asmita says

      March 27, 2012 at 5:39 pm

      The flavors of peppers and cream cheese sound amazing. What a cleaver idea to make this. I am going to try this recipe out soon and will let you know how it turned out.

      Reply
    9. Fashion Meets Food says

      March 27, 2012 at 5:59 pm

      I definitely do not like jalapenos at all. However these look so fancy I think I might just make them for my next dinner party! xo

      Reply
    10. K says

      March 27, 2012 at 7:06 pm

      Oh flippin YUM!!!!! thats all i can say!!!

      love K

      Reply
    11. The Head Caterer says

      March 27, 2012 at 7:21 pm

      ooo, this looks amazing. I think these will be very enjoyable to make and will cater to many peoples tastes. At first sight I thought it was some sort of chicken dish but when I learned of the ingredients i was even more intrigued.

      Reply
    12. honeywhatscooking says

      March 27, 2012 at 8:50 pm

      @Khushboo - of course, Oreo cookies rock! Love them too.. a good alternative is Newman's version of the Oreo cookies, more natural.

      Reply
    13. honeywhatscooking says

      March 27, 2012 at 8:52 pm

      @Ameena - I have to taste this Texas Toast from Pepperidge Farm.. never heard of it. I used to eat Giorgino's (something like that) Mozzarella sticks growing up.

      Reply
    14. honeywhatscooking says

      March 27, 2012 at 8:53 pm

      @Mandy - I love anything hot and spicy.. cheez its are yummy!

      @Parita - that's my philosophy on life. Life a little so I'll try most things at least once.

      Reply
    15. honeywhatscooking says

      March 27, 2012 at 8:54 pm

      Thanks everyone! Just make sure to use Cayenne Pepper, NOT "red chili powder."

      Reply
    16. Katie says

      March 28, 2012 at 9:10 pm

      ohmygoodnessYES.

      Reply
    17. motherrimmy says

      March 29, 2012 at 3:08 am

      I have yet to try these people-pleasing appetizers. I've saved this for the weekend!

      Reply
    18. MyFudo™ says

      March 29, 2012 at 4:08 am

      The guys will really love this treat for their Friday get togethers...The hubby will love me more 😉

      Reply
    19. Kiran @ KiranTarun.com says

      March 29, 2012 at 5:59 am

      I love poppers and haven't really replicated the recipe at home. Your's turned out so well 🙂

      Reply
    20. honeywhatscooking says

      March 30, 2012 at 4:12 am

      Thanks guys. This recipe is a sure crowd pleaser.

      Reply
    21. Anonymous says

      March 31, 2012 at 7:58 pm

      Why would you get rid of all the natural delicious heat from the jalapenos, and instead add yucky cayenne pepper, which will stay in your mouth all day?

      Reply
    22. honeywhatscooking says

      April 01, 2012 at 1:47 am

      @Anonymous - the seeds of the jalapeño are very hot for me. I prefer the cayenne pepper. You can certainly leave the seeds in.

      Reply
    23. Anonymous says

      June 22, 2012 at 12:15 am

      I stuffed mine with chive and onion cream cheese and followed your recipe.....they were awesome!!!!!!

      Reply
    24. honeywhatscooking says

      June 22, 2012 at 1:07 am

      @Anonymous - smart! I'm so glad that worked out for you. 🙂

      Reply
    25. Anonymous says

      August 07, 2012 at 1:48 am

      Just made these with peppers from our garden. Delicious! Thanks!

      Reply
    26. Steph says

      August 27, 2012 at 3:32 am

      Tried these today and they were a hit. Obviously, best right out of the oven but amazing for being so "healthy" nonetheless. Thank you!

      Reply
    27. Anonymous says

      October 11, 2012 at 7:03 pm

      Can you make these adeah of time and bake them when needed?

      Reply
    28. honeywhatscooking says

      October 15, 2012 at 11:05 pm

      @Anonymous - I didn't try making these ahead of time, but perhaps you can try with 4 pieces and see how they turn out. I'm not sure if they will get soggy. Sorry.

      Reply
    29. courtne450 says

      October 26, 2012 at 1:45 am

      So yummy! Made these tonight, they were great! did not add the cayenne, just used 1/4 chili powder in each, the crumbs and the cream cheese. Husband LOVED them!!! Thank you!

      Reply
    30. Anonymous says

      December 25, 2012 at 11:51 pm

      Tried these tonight. They were great! 🙂

      Reply
    31. Anonymous says

      December 25, 2012 at 11:52 pm

      And for anyone wanting to make them ahead of time... I assembled them about an hour early and just stuck them on a foil covered cookie sheet in the fridge. They did fine.

      Reply
    32. honeywhatscooking says

      December 26, 2012 at 5:33 am

      @Anonymous - thank you so much for your feedback. I'm so glad these worked out for you and you made them an hour in advance. Nice. Merry Christmas. 🙂

      Reply
    33. Anonymous says

      March 20, 2013 at 7:21 pm

      Serve with ketchup? Are you serious? YUCK!

      Reply
    34. honeywhatscooking says

      March 20, 2013 at 8:02 pm

      @Anonymous - sorry you don't like ketchup, serve it with something else.
      🙂

      Reply
    35. Anonymous says

      May 29, 2013 at 2:55 pm

      Hi,

      Made these for memorial day, while we had some friends over. Great Recipe !! I am new to your blog, love reading about your NYC adventures, recipes, & fashion fun 🙂

      Komal

      Reply
      • honeywhatscooking says

        May 29, 2013 at 7:06 pm

        Komal - Thanks.. so glad you liked it. I wanna re-work this recipe, I feel like I can skip the flour. Awww.. that's so sweet of you to say, I'm glad you enjoy reading about my NYC escapes, recipes, and all about my shopping addiction. 🙂

        Reply
    36. Anonymous says

      July 29, 2013 at 10:45 pm

      I looked up this recipe this morning because I had a few jalapenos from our garden. My husband and I just polished them off as our appetizer. We dipped them in ranch. Oh my goodness. So delicious. This recipe is a keeper. Thank you!!!

      Reply
      • honeywhatscooking says

        July 31, 2013 at 2:32 am

        Ooooh.. I'm so happy you enjoyed this. Ranch dressing sounds like a great idea. Thanks for sharing your feedback. Much appreciated.

        Reply
    37. Jennifer says

      August 18, 2016 at 1:10 pm

      Can these be prepared ahead of time and frozen? Thanks!!

      Reply
      • nishags.nyc@gmail.com says

        August 19, 2016 at 3:56 am

        @Jennifer - I don't think that will be a problem. I haven't tried it, but it should be okay. Let me know how it turns out.

        Reply
    38. Vermeulen says

      September 05, 2016 at 4:58 pm

      This Was Amazing.
      I Love this!
      I love You!
      Marry me 😉

      Just kidding, i made these with a 'Garlan, cheddar and Blue Cheese'-filling.
      It tasted superb!
      Thank you

      Reply
      • honeywhatscooking says

        September 05, 2016 at 11:51 pm

        Haha. I'm so glad this turned out well. Thanks for the feedback!

        Reply
    39. 4LOVEknaiz9a says

      September 13, 2016 at 1:12 pm

      We stuffed them with cheddar, with jack, with pepper jack, with cream cheese, with bacon mixed with lots of other things, and we ended up with two favorites.

      Reply
    40. Danielle says

      August 26, 2018 at 8:05 pm

      The jalapeños in my garden went crazy this year so I’m now on my third batch of jalapeño poppers… This recipe came out so good so I use this one each time!

      Reply
    41. Rashmi Bharadwaj says

      October 06, 2021 at 11:37 am

      5 stars
      I used to mostly cook Indian food and this was one of the Mexican inspired ingredient in my kitchen, needless to say we loved it. Love Nisha’s recipes and her blog aura is very soothing!

      Reply
      • honeywhatscooking says

        October 06, 2021 at 6:49 pm

        YOu are so sweet. I really appreciate your comment. xoxo

        Reply
    42. kim says

      December 26, 2021 at 9:55 am

      5 stars
      There is no need for takeout poppers again! This is my go-to app & quite the crowd pleaser!

      Reply
    43. Aadya says

      February 13, 2023 at 3:38 am

      5 stars
      So easy and quick to make with delicious results

      Reply
    44. honeywhatscooking says

      September 21, 2018 at 12:46 am

      Thanks for sharing. I appreciate it so much! xoxo

      Reply

    Trackbacks

    1. Stuffed Jalapeños with Gorgonzola and Bacon plus 10 Jalapeño Popper Recipes | foodiecrush says:
      September 20, 2018 at 8:00 AM

      […] This remake of TGIF’s fried poppers stray far from the fryer and straight into the oven with Honey What’s Cooking’s Baked Jalapeno Poppers Stuffed with Cream Cheese […]

      Reply

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    Hi, I'm Nisha! I'm a foodie who is passionate about healthy-ish living and mindful eating. You'll find a little bit of everything here. I use mostly organic real ingredients and incorporate seasonal produce in my cooking. I believe food is medicine. Come join me on this soul-searching journey as I share my love for good food, and I hope somewhere along the way, I inspire you to eat better.

    More about me →


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