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; 1 cup cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella); 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Breadcrumbs for topping (optional)

Highlighted under: Global Ideas

I absolutely love making Jalapeno Poppers with Creamy Spinach Dip for gatherings. The moment I bite into them, I’m greeted with a delightful crunch followed by a burst of creamy, savory goodness. The pairing of the spicy jalapenos with the rich spinach dip creates an irresistible combination. Plus, these poppers are surprisingly easy to make, allowing me to focus on enjoying the company of friends and family instead of spending all day in the kitchen. They're guaranteed to be a hit at any occasion!

Created by

Verity Langdon

Last updated on 2026-01-14T08:05:34.352Z

When I first tried making Jalapeno Poppers with Creamy Spinach Dip, I was on a quest to combine two of my favorite appetizers into one delicious bite. I meticulously crafted the filling, ensuring it had the perfect balance of creaminess and flavor. Each time I bake a batch, I experiment with the spices, and it’s fascinating how a pinch of garlic powder can elevate the taste to another level.

What I found particularly helpful is pre-baking the jalapenos for a few minutes before filling them. This step not only softens the peppers slightly but also intensifies their flavors. As they bake, the aroma fills the kitchen, making it hard to resist sneaking a taste from the oven. Every popper is a bite of happiness that I know my guests will love!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Spicy kick balanced with creamy spinach goodness
Perfect for parties and gatherings
Quick to prepare, allowing for more time to enjoy the feast

The Importance of Cooling the Poppers

After baking, let the jalapeno poppers cool for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This resting period helps the cheese filling set a bit, making it easier to handle and eat. If you skip this step, you might find that the cheese oozes out too quickly when bitten into, leading to a bit of a mess and potential burns. A slight cooling allows the flavors to concentrate and the filling to thicken just enough to provide that creamy, comforting texture.

Cooling the poppers also enhances their flavor. As they rest, the ingredients meld together, allowing the richness of the cream cheese and the freshness of the spinach to infuse the jalapenos. Consider serving the poppers with a creamy ranch or a zesty salsa to complement the spicy heat with a cooling contrast.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

This recipe is versatile, and you can tailor it to your taste or dietary preferences. For a healthier twist, consider using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream; it adds the same creamy texture while boosting the protein content. You might also swap out the cream cheese for a plant-based cream cheese alternative if you’re looking for a dairy-free option. Just ensure that the consistency remains spreadable for easy filling.

If you want to experiment with flavors, feel free to mix in other ingredients such as cooked bacon bits, crab meat, or black beans. Adding different cheeses like feta or pepper jack can elevate the taste profile as well. However, make sure to keep the total volume balanced to avoid compromising the filling's texture.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Jalapeno Poppers with Creamy Spinach Dip.

Ingredients

12 large jalapenos
1 cup cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup sour cream
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Breadcrumbs for topping (optional)

With your ingredients ready, you're set to create a delicious appetizer!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your poppers.

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Carefully slice the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds for a milder flavor. Set them aside.

Make the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, chopped spinach, shredded cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended.

Fill the Jalapenos

Spoon the cheese mixture into each jalapeno half, generously filling them up. If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for an added crunch.

Bake the Poppers

Arrange the filled jalapenos on a baking sheet and bake for about 25 minutes, or until the jalapenos are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve and Enjoy

Remove the poppers from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm, paired with your favorite dipping sauce!

Enjoy your Jalapeno Poppers with Creamy Spinach Dip hot from the oven!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding cooked bacon bits to the cheese filling or topping with a drizzle of ranch dressing before serving.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common issue with jalapeno poppers is the risk of overcooking, which can lead to soggy skins and dried-out filling. To prevent this, monitor the baking time closely and remove the poppers when the cheese is melted and bubbly, usually around 25 minutes. If your poppers begin to brown too quickly, you can cover them loosely with aluminum foil to shield them from direct heat while they finish cooking.

Another potential problem is uneven cooking if they are crowded on the baking sheet. Make sure to arrange the poppers in a single layer with enough space in between them. This ensures that heat circulates evenly, allowing each popper to achieve the desired tender jalapeno and creamy filling consistency.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you want to prepare these jalapeno poppers ahead of time, you can assemble them and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover them tightly to keep them fresh. When ready to cook, you can bake them directly from the fridge, though you may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure they are heated through.

For leftovers, store the baked poppers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through and slightly crispy. Microwaving is faster but may lead to a softer texture, which doesn't quite replicate the delicious crunch you get from baking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare these poppers ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the jalapenos and filling a day in advance. Just assemble and bake them when you are ready to serve.

→ What can I substitute for cream cheese?

You can use low-fat cream cheese or even vegan cream cheese for a lighter option.

→ How can I make these poppers spicier?

Leave some seeds in the jalapenos or add chopped jalapeno or cayenne pepper to the cream cheese mixture for extra heat.

→ What dipping sauces pair well with these poppers?

Ranch dressing, sour cream mixed with lime juice, or a spicy aioli are excellent options to complement the poppers.