Cheesy Spinach Jalapeno Poppers
Highlighted under: Golden Crust & Sweet Cravings
I absolutely love making Cheesy Spinach Jalapeno Poppers for gatherings or just a cozy night in. The combination of fresh spinach and creamy cheese stuffed into spicy jalapenos creates a delightful contrast, and I guarantee they’ll be a hit with anyone who tries them! It’s surprisingly easy to whip these up, and they cook up to perfection in just a short amount of time. Plus, the satisfaction of biting into perfectly baked poppers that are crispy on the outside and cheesy on the inside is hard to beat.
One of my favorite things about these Cheesy Spinach Jalapeno Poppers is the balance of flavors. I remember the first time I made these; I was surprised at how much the creamy cheese complemented the slight heat from the jalapenos. This pairing not only works wonderfully but also keeps everyone coming back for more! I'm particularly fond of adding a hint of garlic powder to enhance the flavors even further.
The preparation is quite straightforward. After mixing the cheese with the sautéed spinach, stuffing the jalapenos takes just a few minutes. I like to bake them until they’re golden and bubbly, which makes for an irresistible aroma that fills the kitchen. It’s hard not to indulge in a few before serving!
Why You'll Love These Poppers
- A unique twist on classic jalapeno poppers with a healthy spin.
- Creamy and cheesy filling that melts in your mouth.
- Perfect for game days, parties, or as a snack anytime!
Ingredient Insights
Choosing the right jalapenos is key to balancing heat and flavor in your Cheesy Spinach Jalapeno Poppers. When selecting, look for firm, unblemished peppers. The larger the jalapeno, the easier they will be to stuff, and they are typically milder in flavor. For a spicier kick, opt for smaller peppers and leave in some seeds and membranes during cleaning. This will ensure a robust heat that pairs perfectly with the creamy filling.
The stars of the filling are certainly the cheeses. Cream cheese provides unmatched creaminess, while the sharpness of cheddar complements the richness beautifully. Parmesan adds depth and a slight nuttiness to the mixture. For those who prefer non-dairy options, alternatives like cashew cream or tofu can create a creamy texture that works surprisingly well. Do ensure to adjust the seasoning, as dairy alternatives can often be milder in flavor.
Perfecting Your Technique
When filling the jalapenos, you might encounter some resistance; a small spoon can be very helpful for getting the mixture in there evenly. Don't be afraid to pack the filling in tightly and mound it slightly on top, as this creates a deliciously crispy cheese layer when baked. Keep an eye on them while baking to ensure the tops become beautifully golden and bubbly; typically, this takes around 15 minutes. If they seem to need more time, a quick broil for just a few minutes can achieve that perfect color without drying them out.
Allowing the poppers to cool slightly before serving enhances their flavor and makes for easier handling. They can retain heat, so let them sit for about 5 minutes to help set the filling. These poppers are best enjoyed warm, but they can also be served at room temperature for casual gatherings, making them a versatile appetizer.
Ingredients
Ingredients
Cheesy Spinach Jalapeno Poppers Ingredients
- 12 fresh jalapenos, halved and seeded
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for drizzling
Make sure to have all your ingredients prepped and ready before you begin assembling the poppers for a smoother cooking experience.
Instructions
Instructions
Prepare the Jalapenos
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Carefully slice the jalapenos in half lengthways and remove the seeds and membranes. This will help reduce their heat, but you can leave some seeds if you like them spicier.
Make the Filling
In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the chopped spinach until wilted. In a mixing bowl, combine the sautéed spinach, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined and creamy.
Stuff the Jalapenos
Carefully fill each jalapeno half with the cheese and spinach mixture. Be generous with the filling, slightly mounding it on top.
Bake
Place the stuffed jalapenos on a baking sheet. Drizzle a little olive oil over them and bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until the tops are golden and bubbly.
Serve and Enjoy
Let them cool for a few minutes before serving. These poppers are best enjoyed warm, fresh out of the oven!
Pair these poppers with your favorite dipping sauce for an added burst of flavor!
Pro Tips
- For a vegan version, substitute dairy cheese with plant-based cheese and use cashew cream in place of cream cheese.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
These Cheesy Spinach Jalapeno Poppers can be prepared in advance, making them an excellent choice for entertaining. You can stuff the jalapenos and refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 24 hours before baking. If you're planning to freeze them, do so before baking—they can be stored for up to three months. When ready to bake from frozen, add an additional 5 to 10 minutes to the cooking time, ensuring they are heated through and bubbly in the center.
For reheating, simply pop them back into a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This method helps maintain the crispy texture on the outside while ensuring the cheesy filling gets reheated evenly. Avoid the microwave if possible as it can make the poppers soggy.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
Serve your Cheesy Spinach Jalapeno Poppers with a cool dipping sauce to balance their heat. A creamy ranch or a tangy sour cream dip can provide a refreshing contrast. You could also add a squeeze of lime or a sprinkle of cilantro on top right before serving for an added pop of flavor. If you're in the mood to experiment, consider incorporating other fillings like diced tomatoes or cooked bacon to vary the textures and flavors.
For a twist on the classic, try adding spices like smoked paprika or chipotle powder into the filling for extra depth. You can even experiment with different types of cheese—Monterey Jack or pepper jack can amp up the spice level, while mozzarella can increase the gooeyness factor. Just ensure to adjust seasoning as needed to keep your filling balanced.
Questions About Recipes
→ How can I store leftover jalapeno poppers?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain their crispiness.
→ Can I freeze these poppers?
Yes, you can freeze the stuffed jalapenos before baking them. Just place them on a tray until frozen, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen for about 20-25 minutes.
→ What can I serve with jalapeno poppers?
They pair well with ranch dressing, sour cream, or guacamole for dipping. You can also serve them with a side of salsa.
→ Are these poppers spicy?
The spice level depends on the jalapenos used. Removing the seeds reduces the heat. You can always try milder peppers if you prefer less spice.
Cheesy Spinach Jalapeno Poppers
I absolutely love making Cheesy Spinach Jalapeno Poppers for gatherings or just a cozy night in. The combination of fresh spinach and creamy cheese stuffed into spicy jalapenos creates a delightful contrast, and I guarantee they’ll be a hit with anyone who tries them! It’s surprisingly easy to whip these up, and they cook up to perfection in just a short amount of time. Plus, the satisfaction of biting into perfectly baked poppers that are crispy on the outside and cheesy on the inside is hard to beat.
Created by: Sandra
Recipe Type: Golden Crust & Sweet Cravings
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Cheesy Spinach Jalapeno Poppers Ingredients
- 12 fresh jalapenos, halved and seeded
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for drizzling
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Carefully slice the jalapenos in half lengthways and remove the seeds and membranes. This will help reduce their heat, but you can leave some seeds if you like them spicier.
In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the chopped spinach until wilted. In a mixing bowl, combine the sautéed spinach, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined and creamy.
Carefully fill each jalapeno half with the cheese and spinach mixture. Be generous with the filling, slightly mounding it on top.
Place the stuffed jalapenos on a baking sheet. Drizzle a little olive oil over them and bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until the tops are golden and bubbly.
Let them cool for a few minutes before serving. These poppers are best enjoyed warm, fresh out of the oven!
Extra Tips
- For a vegan version, substitute dairy cheese with plant-based cheese and use cashew cream in place of cream cheese.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 420mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 14g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 10g