Jalapeno Poppers with Mozzarella and Basil

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Mozzarella and Basil
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 poppers
Ingredients: 12 large jalapenos; 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded; 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped; 4 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil for drizzling

Highlighted under: Exotic Treats

I love serving Jalapeno Poppers with Mozzarella and Basil as a delightful appetizer! The combination of creamy mozzarella paired with fresh basil and the spicy kick of jalapenos makes them truly irresistible. These poppers are perfect for gatherings or simply enjoying on a cozy night in. I particularly enjoy how the baking process brings out the flavors beautifully, enhancing the richness of the cheese while softening the jalapenos just enough to take the edge off their heat. Let’s dive into this simple yet flavorful recipe!

Created by

Rhea Bennett

Last updated on 2026-01-14T03:40:10.558Z

I first stumbled upon Jalapeno Poppers when looking for a unique appetizer to impress friends. After several trials, I found that the balance of mozzarella and basil compliments the kick of jalapenos perfectly, making each bite a flavor explosion. The method of baking instead of frying allows the creamy cheese to melt beautifully, creating a texture that is creamy yet crispy without excessive oil.

One specific tip I learned is to slice the jalapenos lengthwise rather than crosswise; this not only allows for easier stuffing but also provides a more elegant presentation. If you're like me and enjoy a hint of sweetness, consider adding a touch of honey to the cheese mixture—it elevates the flavors even further!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Spicy and creamy filling that tantalizes your taste buds
Fresh basil adds a fragrant touch to the classic recipe
Perfect for parties or a special treat at home

Perfecting Your Jalapeno Poppers

To get the best flavor and texture from your jalapeno poppers, it's essential to choose the right jalapenos. Look for firm, bright green peppers, as this indicates freshness. The size also matters; large jalapenos provide ample space for stuffing and tend to be less fiery compared to smaller varieties. If you're unsure about heat levels, consider sampling a small piece before starting the recipe. This will help you gauge how many seeds to leave in during preparation.

Another key technique is to properly deseed and devein the jalapenos. Using gloves, slice the peppers in half and remove the seeds and membranes. This careful preparation not only reduces heat but also allows the creamy filling to shine through without being overwhelmed by the spiciness. If you prefer a more fiery experience, reserve some seeds to sprinkle into the filling for an extra kick!

Filling and Baking Tips

Achieving a creamy yet structured filling is vital for jalapeno poppers. The combination of mozzarella and cream cheese is perfect because the mozzarella provides that gooey texture while the cream cheese adds richness without becoming too runny. Make sure both cheeses are at room temperature before mixing, as this makes it easier to blend them together smoothly. If you'd like to add a bit more flavor, consider mixing in some sharp cheddar or a hint of smoked paprika for a unique twist.

When baking your poppers, monitor them closely around the 10-minute mark. You want to pull them out when the cheese is perfectly bubbly and the edges are just starting to turn golden. If they’re browning too quickly, you can loosely cover them with aluminum foil to prevent burning while ensuring the cheese melts completely. Letting them rest for a few minutes before serving helps the filling set slightly, making them easier to pick up without spilling.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make delicious Jalapeno Poppers with Mozzarella and Basil.

Ingredients

12 large jalapenos
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
4 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for drizzling

Make sure to have your ingredients ready before starting!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your tasty Jalapeno Poppers.

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice each jalapeno in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes carefully. This helps reduce the heat but feel free to leave some seeds if you prefer a spicier kick.

Mix the Filling

In a bowl, combine the mozzarella cheese, cream cheese, chopped basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well combined and creamy.

Stuff the Jalapenos

Spoon the cheese mixture into each jalapeno half. Be generous with the stuffing; it should overflow slightly for a great presentation.

Bake the Poppers

Arrange the stuffed jalapenos on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle a little olive oil over them and bake for about 15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve and Enjoy

Allow the poppers to cool for a few minutes before serving. They can be garnished with additional fresh basil or a sprinkle of paprika for added color!

Enjoy your freshly baked Jalapeno Poppers with family and friends!

Pro Tips

For a milder flavor, opt for smaller jalapenos, which tend to be less spicy. You can also use a mix of cheeses for added complexity, such as cheddar or pepper jack.

Storage and Make-Ahead Options

Jalapeno poppers can be prepared ahead of time, making them an excellent choice for entertaining. Stuff the jalapenos a day in advance, cover them tightly with plastic wrap, and store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld, resulting in even tastier poppers.

If you find yourself with leftovers, store the cooled poppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes or until they are heated through and the cheese is melty again.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

These jalapeno poppers are perfect on their own, but don’t hesitate to pair them with dips to elevate your appetizer game. A side of zesty ranch or a cooling sour cream dip can offset the heat while adding a creamy element. For a twist, serve them alongside fresh salsa or guacamole for a fun flavor explosion.

For variations, try experimenting with different fillings. Add cooked bacon bits for a smoky flavor or use flavored cream cheeses, such as garlic herb or jalapeno cream cheese, to enhance the spice level. Adding crushed nuts or breadcrumbs on top before baking can also introduce a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the jalapenos and stuff them a day in advance. Just bake them shortly before serving.

→ What can I serve with Jalapeno Poppers?

They pair well with dips like ranch or sour cream, which help balance the heat from the jalapenos.

→ Can I freeze these poppers?

Absolutely! They can be frozen before baking. Just cook them from frozen for about 20 minutes when you’re ready to enjoy.

→ What kind of jalapenos should I use?

Choose firm, bright green jalapenos. They should be fresh, without any wrinkles or blemishes.