Jalapeno Poppers with Smoked Cheese

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Smoked Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 poppers
Ingredients: 12 fresh jalapenos; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 4 oz smoked gouda, shredded; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp onion powder; 1/4 tsp smoked paprika; 12 slices of bacon, cut in half

Highlighted under: Simple Inspiration

I absolutely love making Jalapeno Poppers with Smoked Cheese, especially for gatherings. The combination of creamy, smoky cheese paired with the spicy kick of fresh jalapenos brings excitement to any party. These poppers are incredibly easy to prepare and can be customized with your favorite spices. It’s the perfect appetizer to impress your friends and family while satisfying your cravings for heat and flavor. With every bite, you experience a depth of taste that keeps everyone coming back for more.

Created by

Jacqueline Moore

Last updated on 2026-01-12T07:33:34.921Z

When I first made Jalapeno Poppers with Smoked Cheese, I wasn't sure how they would turn out, but they exceeded my expectations! The creamy smoked cheese blends wonderfully with the heat of the jalapenos, delivering a flavor explosion that dances on your palate. I loved experimenting with different cheeses and spices, ultimately finding that a blend of cream cheese and smoked gouda provides the perfect balance.

I found that grilling or baking the poppers adds an additional layer of flavor while keeping the jalapenos tender. The key is to ensure your cheese is not too runny, which can happen if it's overcooked. I usually check them after 15 minutes to adjust cooking time as needed for a perfectly crispy exterior and a deliciously creamy interior.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Spicy jalapenos contrast beautifully with the creamy smoked cheese
A crunchy exterior that gives way to a velvety filling
Perfect for game days or any social gathering

      

Choosing Your Jalapenos

When selecting jalapenos for your poppers, look for firm, glossy skins and avoid any with soft spots or wrinkles. The size of the jalapenos can vary, which affects the filling quantity. Larger jalapenos may require more cream cheese mixture, while smaller ones provide a more concentrated spice. If you're unsure about the spice level, give one a taste before cooking to gauge its heat.

For those who are sensitive to spice, consider using poblano peppers instead. They have a milder flavor and still offer a nice peppery taste that works well with the creamy filling. Alternatively, you can opt for mild banana peppers for an even gentler bite.

Bacon Wrapping Techniques

Wrapping the jalapenos in bacon adds a fantastic smoky flavor, but getting the technique right is crucial for optimal results. Use thin-cut bacon that crisps up well without being overly greasy; thick-cut bacon may not cook thoroughly before the cheese overflows. Ensure you wrap the bacon tightly, starting from one end and spiraling down to the other, securing with toothpicks if necessary.

If you prefer to make these poppers a bit healthier, turkey bacon is a suitable alternative, though you'll want to check for doneness carefully as it can cook faster than traditional bacon. Keep an eye on the poppers in the oven to avoid any burning, especially at the edges where the bacon crisp up first.

Serving Ideas and Variations

These jalapeno poppers are perfect as a stand-alone appetizer, but you can elevate them further with a dipping sauce. A tangy ranch or blue cheese dressing pairs excellently with the heat, providing a nice cooling effect. If you want to impress your guests, consider drizzling a balsamic reduction over the finished poppers for a touch of sweetness.

For variation, consider mixing in different types of cheese into your filling. Adding a bit of sharp cheddar or pepper jack can enhance the flavor profile. You can also sprinkle some chopped fresh herbs, like cilantro or chives, for added freshness. Experimenting with various cheeses allows you to create tailored flavors that might surprise even your most discerning guests.

Ingredients

For the Poppers

12 fresh jalapenos
8 oz cream cheese, softened
4 oz smoked gouda, shredded
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/4 tsp smoked paprika
12 slices of bacon, cut in half

Feel free to adjust the spices based on your flavor preferences!

Preparation Steps

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the jalapenos in half lengthwise and carefully remove the seeds and membranes if you prefer less heat.

Make the Filling

In a bowl, mix the softened cream cheese with the shredded smoked gouda, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika until well combined.

Stuff the Jalapenos

Spoon the cheese mixture into each jalapeno half, filling generously. Wrap each stuffed half with half a slice of bacon, securing with a toothpick if necessary.

Bake the Poppers

Place the jalapeno poppers on a baking sheet lined with foil. Bake for 20 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the cheese is bubbly.

Enjoy these poppers hot for the best flavor!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, try adding diced jalapenos or spicy sausage to the cheese filling.

Make-Ahead Tips

These jalapeno poppers can be prepared ahead of time, making them an excellent choice for busy gatherings. You can stuff the jalapenos with the cheese mixture and wrap them in bacon, then refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to meld, enhancing the overall taste when they're finally cooked.

If you're looking to freeze them, place the assembled poppers in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze before transferring them to a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. Bake them straight from the freezer; however, you may need to extend the baking time by 5-10 minutes.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If the cheese fills overflow during baking, it often signals overstuffing. To prevent this, ensure that you're filling the poppers generously but not excessively. Keep an eye on your baking time; if the cheese is bubbling out too quickly, consider lowering the oven temperature slightly to allow the bacon to get crispy without burning.

For a dry filling, make sure your cream cheese is sufficiently softened before mixing. Cold cream cheese can lead to a chunky consistency that doesn't spread nicely. If your filling does seem too thick, adding an extra teaspoon of cream or sour cream can create a smoother texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these poppers ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the poppers, cover them, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

→ What can I substitute for smoked gouda?

You can use any smoked cheese you prefer, such as smoked cheddar or even pepper jack for added spice.

→ Are there any vegetarian options?

You can omit the bacon and use a different type of filling, like a seasoned vegetable mixture or more cheese.

→ Can these be grilled instead of baked?

Absolutely! Grill the poppers on medium heat until the bacon is crispy and the cheese is melted.