Jalapeno Poppers with Creamy Avocado Filling

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Creamy Avocado Filling
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 poppers
Ingredients: 12 large jalapenos; 1 ripe avocado; 4 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/4 cup breadcrumbs; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil spray

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making Jalapeno Poppers with Creamy Avocado Filling for gatherings. The balance of heat from the jalapenos and the cool, creamy avocado filling makes each bite irresistible. I often prepare these as an appetizer, and they disappear quickly! Using fresh ingredients not only elevates the flavors but also ensures a delightful texture. This recipe is easy to follow and perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a spicy snack while watching the game.

Created by

Keira Dalton

Last updated on 2026-01-14T02:46:15.429Z

When I first tried Jalapeno Poppers, I was instantly hooked by their delicious combination of spicy and creamy flavors. In this recipe, I wanted to create a popper that not only packs a punch but also offers a refreshing twist, thanks to the avocado. I found that baking these poppers brings out their natural sweetness while maintaining that perfect crunch, which is often lost in frying.

Another tip I discovered is to let the cream cheese soften before mixing with the avocado. This results in a smoother filling that blends beautifully with the jalapeno's heat. Pair them with a dipping sauce of your choice, and you're ready for a mouthwatering experience that everyone will love!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        The perfect blend of heat and creaminess
Easy to make with simple ingredients
Great for parties, game days, or movie nights

      

Selecting the Right Jalapenos

When choosing jalapenos, look for ones that are firm and plump with a vibrant green color. Avoid any that appear shriveled or have dark spots, as these are signs of overripeness. The heat level can vary significantly from one jalapeno to another, so taste a small piece if you’re unsure. For milder poppers, you can opt for early-harvest jalapenos, which tend to have less heat.

Keep in mind that the heat of jalapenos is concentrated in the seeds and membranes. If you want to dial down the spice further, thoroughly remove these parts before filling. However, if you're craving more heat, leave some of the seeds intact for an extra kick. This way, you can customize the level of spice to your preference.

The Perfect Filling Consistency

Creating a smooth filling is crucial for the best texture and flavor in your jalapeno poppers. When mashing the avocado, ensure there are no large chunks remaining; it should be creamy and easily spreadable. You can use a fork for a rustic texture, or a food processor for a super smooth filling. Adding cream cheese not only helps bind the mixture but also enhances the creaminess, making each bite even more delightful.

If you prefer a little extra flavor, consider mixing in additional ingredients such as lime juice or chopped fresh herbs. A tablespoon of lime juice can brighten up the filling and complement the rich avocado. Just make sure to adjust the amount of salt accordingly, as the acids can affect the overall seasoning.

Baking Tips for Crispy Poppers

Achieving crispy jalapeno poppers is all about the baking technique. After stuffing the jalapenos with the avocado filling, coating them with breadcrumbs is essential. For an extra crunch, consider using panko breadcrumbs instead of regular ones. They tend to provide a lighter, airier texture that becomes beautifully golden when baked. Lightly spraying with olive oil before baking helps the breadcrumbs crisp up nicely.

Monitor the poppers closely as they bake. After about 15 minutes, check for a golden brown color and a crisp texture. If they aren’t quite there, you can give them a couple more minutes. If you notice they are browning too quickly, consider covering them loosely with foil to prevent burning while allowing the insides to cook through completely.

Ingredients

For the Jalapeno Poppers

12 large jalapenos
1 ripe avocado
4 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil spray

Make sure to wear gloves while handling jalapenos to avoid irritation.

Instructions

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut each jalapeno in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes for less heat, if desired.

Mix the Filling

In a mixing bowl, mash the avocado and combine it with the softened cream cheese, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.

Stuff the Jalapenos

Spoon the creamy avocado filling into each jalapeno half, making sure to pack it in generously.

Coat and Bake

Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top of the filled jalapenos. Lightly spray with olive oil. Place them on a baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes or until golden and crispy.

Serve and Enjoy

Let the poppers cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm with your favorite dipping sauce!

These poppers are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding bacon bits to the filling or use pepper jack cheese for an additional kick.

Make-Ahead and Storage Options

If you want to prepare these Jalapeno Poppers ahead of time, you can stuff them a few hours in advance. Just cover them tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. Alternatively, you can freeze the uncooked stuffed jalapenos; simply lay them out on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.

When you're ready to cook frozen poppers, no need to thaw—they can go straight into the oven. Just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time, and check for that golden brown color to ensure they are thoroughly cooked. This makes them an ideal snack for impromptu gatherings!

Serving Suggestions

These jalapeno poppers are best served warm, right out of the oven, to enjoy their crispy texture. Pair them with a dipping sauce to enhance the flavor experience. A cool ranch dressing or a zesty cilantro lime dip complements the heat of the jalapenos wonderfully and balances out the richness of the filling. You can also try serving them alongside a spicy salsa for an extra kick.

For a fun twist, consider drizzling the poppers with a bit of sriracha or a homemade spicy mayo before serving. This adds an extra layer of flavor and visual appeal. I often garnish them with chopped cilantro for a fresh touch that brightens the overall dish.

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with the filling! Instead of cheddar cheese, try incorporating pepper jack for a spicier flavor. You can also add cooked bacon bits or crumbled sausage for a heartier filling that adds a savory punch. Veggie lovers might enjoy mixing in some finely chopped bell pepper or corn for a bit of sweetness and color.

If you like a smokier flavor, consider grilling the jalapenos before stuffing. This imparts a nice char and depth of flavor that marries well with the creamy filling. Just make sure to grill them until they are tender but still hold their shape, then stuff and bake as per the instructions. It’s a fun way to elevate this classic appetizer!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these jalapeno poppers ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the filling and stuff the jalapenos in advance. Store them in the fridge until you're ready to bake.

→ How spicy are these poppers?

The spice level depends on the jalapeno variety. Removing the seeds and membranes will make them milder.

→ Can I use other types of peppers?

Absolutely! You can substitute with bell peppers or other mild varieties if you prefer less heat.

→ What dips pair well with jalapeno poppers?

Sour cream, ranch dressing, or a zesty salsa are great options for dipping.