Jalapeno Poppers with Spinach Feta Filling

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Spinach Feta Filling
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 12 large jalapeños; 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 4 oz cream cheese, softened; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/4 cup breadcrumbs; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1/4 tsp paprika

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

We absolutely love these Jalapeno Poppers with Spinach Feta Filling because they offer a delightful balance of heat and creaminess that makes them perfect for any gathering. The best part is how simple they are to prepare! The combination of fresh spinach, tangy feta, and spicy jalapeños creates a flavor explosion that pairs beautifully with a hint of garlic. Whether served as an appetizer or snack, they are sure to impress friends and family alike.

Created by

Morgan Reeves

Last updated on 2026-01-14T01:25:07.614Z

When I first experimented with Jalapeno Poppers, I knew I wanted to try something different from the typical cheesy filling. So, I decided to merge fresh spinach and feta for a unique twist. The result was a rich and creamy mixture that complements the jalapeño's natural spiciness remarkably well. One tip I discovered during my trials is to roast the jalapeños beforehand to enhance their flavor and soften them, making it easier to stuff them.

Not only do these poppers satisfy my craving for snacks, but they also look stunning on a platter. It became a game-changer to add fresh herbs and a light squeeze of lemon to the filling, balancing the flavors perfectly. Every bite offers a delightful surprise, bringing a touch of gourmet flair to our gatherings.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        A delicious combination of heat and creaminess in every bite
Easy to make, perfect for gatherings and parties
A healthier twist on traditional poppers with spinach and feta

      

Ingredient Insights

The choice of jalapeños is crucial for the flavor profile of these poppers. Opt for fresh, firm jalapeños that are bright green to ensure spiciness and crunch. If you prefer a milder taste, look for larger jalapeños which tend to have a slightly reduced heat level compared to smaller varieties. Conversely, if you enjoy a significant kick, select smaller and more vibrant peppers, as these typically pack more spice.

Feta cheese is a star ingredient in the filling, providing a tangy and creamy contrast to the heat of the jalapeños. When selecting feta, go for a block rather than crumbled cheese for better quality and flavor. If necessary, you can substitute with goat cheese for a different flavor profile. However, be aware that goat cheese is more tangy, which may alter the balance of flavors.

Perfecting the Technique

When preheating your oven, make sure to allow it to reach the full temperature of 375°F (190°C) before placing the jalapeños inside. This ensures even cooking and helps achieve that crispy topping you’re looking for. If your oven has hot spots, consider rotating the baking sheet halfway through the baking time for uniform browning.

Pressing the filling into the jalapeños is key to a satisfying bite. Make sure to pack the mixture down firmly but gently, as under-stuffed poppers may collapse during baking. The mixture should be slightly mounded above the edges for a beautifully sculpted appearance after baking.

Ingredients

For the Poppers

12 large jalapeños
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
4 oz cream cheese, softened
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 tsp black pepper

For Topping

1/4 cup breadcrumbs
1 tbsp olive oil
1/4 tsp paprika

Instructions

Prepare the Jalapeños

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the jalapeños in half lengthwise and remove the seeds for a milder flavor, or leave some seeds in for extra heat. Place them on a baking sheet.

Make the Filling

In a bowl, combine chopped spinach, feta, cream cheese, minced garlic, and black pepper. Mix until well incorporated.

Stuff the Jalapeños

Spoon the filling into each jalapeño half, pressing down gently to ensure they are well-stuffed.

Prepare the Topping

In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with olive oil and paprika until all crumbs are coated.

Bake the Poppers

Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the stuffed jalapeños and bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.

Serve

Allow to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy these delicious poppers warm as an appetizer or snack!

Pro Tips

To add an extra layer of flavor, consider adding some chopped green onions or herbs to the filling. Adjust the cheese ratio to your liking for different flavor profiles.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

You can prepare these jalapeño poppers ahead of time, making them an ideal option for entertaining. After stuffing the jalapeños, cover them tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply remove them from the fridge and add the breadcrumb topping before placing them in the oven. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld more intensely.

To store leftovers, let the poppers cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. When reheating, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crisped up again.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

These jalapeño poppers make a fantastic appetizer paired with a cooling dip. I recommend serving them with a side of ranch dressing or a zesty yogurt sauce to balance the heat. Additionally, garnishing with fresh parsley or cilantro not only adds color but also a fresh flavor that enhances the overall dish.

For a twist on the filling, consider adding cooked bacon or smoked sausage for a smoky flavor. You might also experiment with different cheese varieties; sharp cheddar or pepper jack can give a rich, savory depth to the filling. Just be careful to adjust the seasoning to avoid overwhelming the dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these poppers ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the jalapeños and filling ahead of time and assemble them just before baking.

→ What can I use instead of feta cheese?

You can substitute feta with goat cheese or ricotta for a different taste.

→ How spicy are these jalapeño poppers?

The spice level can be controlled by how many seeds you leave in the jalapeños. More seeds mean more heat!

→ Can I use a different type of pepper?

Absolutely! Bell peppers or banana peppers can also work, just adjust the baking time as needed.