Jalapeno Poppers with Feta Cheese

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Feta Cheese
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 pieces
Ingredients: 8 oz feta cheese, crumbled; 4 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped; Salt and pepper, to taste; 12 fresh jalapenos, halved and seeded; Olive oil, for drizzling

Highlighted under: Traditional Planning

I absolutely love making Jalapeno Poppers with Feta Cheese, especially during gatherings with friends and family. The combination of spicy jalapenos stuffed with creamy feta brings an amazing contrast of flavors that always receives rave reviews. Each time I prepare them, I enjoy playing around with different herbs and spices in the filling for an extra kick. They're quick to whip up and serve as the perfect finger food for any occasion!

Created by

Zara Ellington

Last updated on 2026-01-06T15:41:34.474Z

One evening, I decided to test a new twist on the classic jalapeno poppers that everyone loves. I experimented with different cheeses, but it was the feta that stole the show. Its tangy flavor melded beautifully with the spicy heat, creating a wonderful harmony that I couldn't resist. I found that balancing the creamy feta with herbs like dill and parsley really brought out the taste!

Another tip that I discovered is roasting the jalapenos slightly before stuffing them. This not only softens the peppers but also enhances their natural sweetness. My friends have now come to expect these decadent bites at every gathering, and honestly, they never last long!

        Why You'll Love These Jalapeno Poppers
        Creamy feta cheese blends perfectly with spicy jalapenos
Easy-to-make and customize to your taste
An irresistible appetizer that everyone enjoys

      

Perfecting the Filling

The filling for these jalapeno poppers is crucial to achieve that standout flavor. The combination of feta and cream cheese not only helps balance the heat from the jalapenos but also creates a creamy texture that melts in your mouth. The garlic powder adds depth, while the fresh dill and parsley provide brightness. If you prefer an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the mixture.

When mixing the filling, a fork works well to break down the feta and combine the cheeses effectively. You want a smooth, creamy consistency before stuffing the jalapenos. Be cautious not to overmix, as you want to retain a few chunky bits of feta for texture. Also, if you don’t have dill or parsley on hand, you can easily substitute them with other fresh herbs like chives or cilantro for a different flavor profile.

Stuffing the Jalapenos

Stuffing the jalapenos can get a bit messy but making sure to pack the filling tightly will help prevent it from spilling out during baking. I recommend using a small spoon or a piping bag fitted with a large round tip to make the process easier and cleaner. Remember to wear gloves when handling jalapenos to avoid irritation from the oils, and be sure to remove the seeds for a milder flavor; the heat is intensified in the seeds and membranes.

As you prepare the baking sheet, a light oiling will prevent sticking and promote even browning. If you want a crispier exterior, consider broiling the poppers for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, watching closely to ensure that they don’t burn. You’ll know they’re done when the cheese is bubbly and the jalapenos have softened, with a slight char starting to appear.

Ingredients for Jalapeno Poppers

For the Filling

8 oz feta cheese, crumbled
4 oz cream cheese, softened
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Jalapenos

12 fresh jalapenos, halved and seeded
Olive oil, for drizzling

Feel free to add extra spices or use different types of cheese based on your preference!

How to Make Jalapeno Poppers

Prepare the Filling

In a bowl, combine the crumbled feta cheese, cream cheese, garlic powder, dill, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined and creamy.

Stuff the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly oil a baking sheet. Carefully stuff each jalapeno half with the cheese filling, making sure to pack it in.

Bake

Place the stuffed jalapenos on the baking sheet. Drizzle with a little olive oil. Bake for 15 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is golden.

Serve

Once done, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce!

These poppers are perfect for game days or as a fun appetizer at parties!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a dash of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper into the cheese mixture.

Serving Suggestions

These jalapeno poppers are versatile and can be paired with a variety of dipping sauces. A simple sour cream or Greek yogurt dip can cool the mouth after that spicy bite. For a twist, try serving them with a chipotle ranch or avocado crema to add creaminess and additional flavor contrast. If you’re adventurous, a drizzle of honey over the poppers just before serving can create an enticing sweet and spicy combo.

In addition to serving as an appetizer, these poppers can also be served alongside grilled meats or burgers as a unique side dish. They are excellent for summer cookouts, game days, or festive gatherings, ensuring there's something for everyone to enjoy. Even cold, they have a delightful flavor, making them suitable for potlucks.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Jalapeno poppers can easily be made ahead of time, making them a convenient choice for busy hosts. Prepare the stuffed jalapenos up to the baking stage, then cover them and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake them, simply add a few extra minutes to the baking time since they’ll go in at a colder temperature.

For longer storage, consider freezing the stuffed jalapenos before baking. Arrange them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a resealable bag. When you're ready to enjoy them, there’s no need to thaw; just pop them in the oven directly from the freezer, adding an additional 10 minutes to the bake time to ensure they cook through.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze the Jalapeno Poppers?

Yes, you can freeze them before baking. Just make sure to wrap them tightly, and when you're ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

→ How spicy are these Jalapeno Poppers?

The heat level depends on the jalapenos you choose. You can adjust the spiciness by removing more seeds and membranes before stuffing.

→ What can I serve with Jalapeno Poppers?

They pair well with ranch dressing, salsa, or a cooling yogurt dip!

→ Can I use other cheeses instead of feta?

Absolutely! Cream cheese, cheddar, or pepper jack are great alternatives for different flavor profiles.