Jalapeno Poppers with Creamy Spinach Dip

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Creamy Spinach Dip
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12 poppers
Ingredients: 12 fresh jalapenos; 1 cup cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1 cup baby spinach, chopped; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 tsp garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

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I absolutely love making Jalapeno Poppers with Creamy Spinach Dip for game days or casual gatherings. The combination of jalapenos stuffed with a rich, creamy spinach filling creates an irresistible snack that’s packed with flavor and a slight kick. Plus, the best part is how easy they are to prepare! Once you’ve prepared the filling, stuffing the poppers is quick and satisfying. This dish is always a hit, leaving everyone craving more!

Created by

Ffion Llewellyn

Last updated on 2026-01-14T02:45:34.257Z

During one of our recent get-togethers, I decided to bring a little heat to the table with my Jalapeno Poppers filled with a creamy spinach dip. The rich flavor of the creamy filling complements the spicy jalapenos perfectly, and I quickly learned that the secret ingredient is a touch of garlic. It elevates the dip to an entirely new level!

I also found that baking instead of frying let me enjoy them without the extra oil, while still ensuring they come out wonderfully cheesy and gooey. Trust me; the first bite will have everyone asking for the recipe!

Why You'll Love These Jalapeno Poppers
Hearty with a creamy spinach filling that everyone will adore
Perfect balance of spicy and savory flavors
Great for parties, game days, or as a simple appetizer

Ingredient Insights

The star of this recipe is undoubtedly the jalapenos. When selecting them, look for firm, bright green peppers that are lightly shiny. They should feel heavy for their size and not have any wrinkles. The heat level can vary, so if you prefer milder poppers, choose jalapenos that are larger, as they tend to be less spicy. You can also soak them in cold water for about 30 minutes to further tame the heat before using.

Cream cheese contributes a rich, creamy texture that binds the filling together, while the sour cream adds a touch of tanginess that balances the flavors. To achieve an ultra-smooth filling, ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. If you want a lighter version, consider using a reduced-fat cream cheese and Greek yogurt as a substitute for sour cream for a healthier twist.

Stuffing Techniques

When it comes to stuffing the jalapenos, I recommend using a piping bag for a cleaner and easier application. If you don’t have a piping bag, simply cut a corner off a zip-top bag filled with the filling. Ensure you fill the jalapenos generously, as they'll shrink slightly during baking, and you want to maximize that creamy goodness per bite. If you find the filling is too thick to easily pipe, add a teaspoon of milk to loosen it up.

After baking, you should watch for that perfect golden color on the cheese topping. If the cheese hasn’t browned after 20 minutes, switch your oven to broil for an additional minute or two—just keep a close eye to prevent burning. The perfectly baked poppers will have a slight crisp at the edges and a gooey, flavorful center.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Jalapeno Poppers with Creamy Spinach Dip

For the Poppers

12 fresh jalapenos
1 cup cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup sour cream
1 cup baby spinach, chopped
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Gather all the ingredients, and let’s start cooking!

Instructions

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Carefully slice each jalapeno in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes to control the heat.

Make the Creamy Spinach Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, chopped spinach, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and well combined.

Stuff the Jalapenos

Using a spoon or a piping bag, fill each jalapeno half with the creamy spinach mixture. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.

Bake the Poppers

Place the stuffed jalapenos on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 20 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve and Enjoy

Allow them to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your delicious Jalapeno Poppers with Creamy Spinach Dip!

These poppers are best enjoyed warm and can be paired with your favorite dipping sauces if desired!

Pro Tips

For an extra crunchy texture, try adding panko breadcrumbs on top before baking for a delightful contrast.

Make-Ahead and Storage

You can prepare these jalapeno poppers in advance, which is a great time-saver for gatherings. After stuffing the jalapenos, arrange them on a baking sheet and freeze them for about an hour. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored like this for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, bake them straight from the freezer; just increase the baking time by about 5-10 minutes.

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, I find that the texture of the poppers is best when fresh. Reheat them in the oven for about 10-15 minutes at 350°F (175°C) to retain some of that original crunch.

Serving Suggestions

These jalapeno poppers pair wonderfully with a variety of dipping sauces. A cool ranch dressing or a creamy cilantro lime dip works beautifully to balance the spice. If you’re serving them during a gathering, consider putting together a mini platter with other appetizers like buffalo wings or mini quiches for variety and to complement the flavors.

For a twist on the classic, experiment with different fillings! A mixture of cooked chorizo or bacon can be added for a heartier pop, or try incorporating herbs like dill or cilantro into the spinach filling to give it an entirely new flavor profile. Each variation can provide an exciting surprise for your guests!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make Jalapeno Poppers ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare them and refrigerate them before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they are chilled.

→ How spicy are these Jalapeno Poppers?

They have a nice kick, but you can adjust the spice level by removing more seeds and membranes from the jalapenos.

→ What other fillings can I use?

You can get creative with fillings! Consider adding cooked sausage, bacon, or other cheeses to customize your poppers.

→ Can I freeze Jalapeno Poppers?

Absolutely! Freeze them unbaked, and simply bake them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.