Jalapeno Poppers with Spinach Feta Filling

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Spinach Feta Filling
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 large jalapeno peppers; 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 tablespoon olive oil

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love serving jalapeno poppers as an appetizer, and this Spinach Feta Filling takes them to a whole new level. The creamy, tangy feta combined with fresh spinach creates a delightful contrast to the spicy jalapenos. It’s a crowd-pleaser at any gathering, and I can guarantee that my friends will always come back for more. Plus, having the balance of flavors makes each bite satisfying. If you enjoy a spicy kick with a creamy twist, you will fall in love with this recipe!

Created by

Erin Wallace

Last updated on 2026-01-14T02:40:10.694Z

When I first made these Jalapeno Poppers, I was amazed by how easy they were to prepare yet how sophisticated they tasted. I experimented with different fillings but finally settled on a combination of spinach and feta that complements the heat of the jalapenos beautifully. The trick is to roast the peppers just enough so they become tender without losing their crunch.

As I continued to tweak the filling, I discovered that adding a hint of garlic enhances the overall flavor profile remarkably. Each popper is not just a spicy bite; it’s a little explosion of creamy, cheesy goodness that makes everyone at the table smile. Trust me, these will quickly become your go-to appetizer!

        Why You'll Love These Jalapeno Poppers
        The perfect balance of spicy jalapenos and creamy feta filling
Quick and easy preparation, ideal for gatherings
Healthy spinach adds nutrition without sacrificing flavor

      

Understanding the Filling

The combination of creamy feta and spinach serves not only to enrich the flavor profile of the jalapeno poppers but also to balance the heat. Feta cheese brings a briny, tangy note that complements the savory cream cheese, while the spinach adds freshness and a slight earthiness. This mixture not only enhances taste but also contributes to a delightful texture that contrasts beautifully with the crunchy jalapeno skin.

When mixing the filling, it's crucial to thoroughly incorporate the ingredients. This ensures a consistent flavor in every bite. Aim to break down any clumps of cream cheese, so the filling is smooth and easy to spoon into the jalapenos. If the mixture feels too thick, you can add a splash of milk or a bit more cream cheese to achieve a more spreadable consistency.

Baking Tips for Perfect Poppers

Baking the jalapeno poppers requires close attention to time and temperature. Preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) is essential for achieving that perfectly golden top. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time; you want them to become bubbly and lightly browned without overcooking. A visual cue is when the tops start to show a slight crispness, indicating a great balance of texture.

If you prefer a crispier exterior, consider broiling the poppers for the last minute or so of baking. Just be cautious, as they can turn from perfectly crispy to burnt in a matter of seconds. Position the baking tray a few inches from the broiler, and keep the oven door slightly ajar to monitor them closely.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients before you start preparing your Jalapeno Poppers:

Jalapeno Poppers Filling

8 large jalapeno peppers
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
1 clove garlic, minced
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 tablespoon olive oil

Now that you have all the ingredients, let’s move on to the preparation steps.

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your Jalapeno Poppers:

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the jalapeno peppers in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes for a milder flavor. Set them aside.

Make the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped spinach, feta cheese, cream cheese, minced garlic, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.

Fill the Jalapenos

Spoon the filling generously into each jalapeno half, pressing it slightly to ensure it holds together.

Bake

Place the filled jalapenos on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Drizzle a little olive oil over the top and bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until the tops are golden and slightly bubbly.

Serve

Remove from the oven and let cool for a couple of minutes. Serve warm and enjoy your flavorful Jalapeno Poppers!

Enjoy these poppers as a party starter or a tasty snack!

Pro Tips

For a spicier kick, keep a few seeds in the jalapenos. You can also experiment with other types of cheese for different flavor profiles.

Variations and Substitutions

Feel free to experiment with the filling by incorporating other ingredients such as diced sun-dried tomatoes for a sweet contrast or some chopped olives for an extra briny kick. If you're sensitive to spice, consider using mini bell peppers instead of jalapenos; they offer similar texture and can be stuffed just the same, but without the heat.

For a healthier twist, you could swap out the cream cheese for Greek yogurt. This will maintain creaminess while cutting down on fat. Additionally, using a low-fat feta or even a dairy-free feta cheese alternative can cater to dietary preferences.

Make-Ahead and Storage

If you're planning ahead, these jalapeno poppers can be assembled up to a day in advance. Fill the jalapeños and place them on the baking tray, then cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you're ready to cook them, simply remove the wrap and bake as directed. This makes them an excellent option for party planning or game-day snacks.

Leftover poppers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For reheating, place them in a toaster oven or standard oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes, to help restore their crispness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these jalapeno poppers ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the jalapenos and filling ahead of time. Just assemble them and store in the fridge until you're ready to bake.

→ Are there any alternatives to feta cheese?

Absolutely, you can use goat cheese, ricotta, or even shredded cheddar cheese if you prefer.

→ How can I make these poppers gluten-free?

This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but always double-check your ingredient labels to ensure they don’t contain any gluten.

→ What can I serve with jalapeno poppers?

They pair well with sour cream or a yogurt dip to balance out the heat!