Jalapeno Poppers with Creamy Ranch Filling

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Creamy Ranch Filling
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 24 poppers
Ingredients: 12 large jalapenos, halved and seeded; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup ranch dressing; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp onion powder; 1/4 tsp smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 12 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled (optional)

Highlighted under: Warm Table Favorites

I've always been a fan of spicy snacks, and these Jalapeno Poppers with Creamy Ranch Filling have become a favorite in my home. Every time I serve them at gatherings, they fly off the platter! The combination of creamy ranch and spicy jalapenos is not only satisfying but also surprisingly easy to make. Whether you're entertaining friends or just indulging yourself, these poppers are sure to impress. Plus, they take just 30 minutes from start to finish, making them a perfect last-minute treat.

Created by

Naomi Clarke

Last updated on 2026-01-11T23:51:55.547Z

I decided to try making Jalapeno Poppers one afternoon, inspired by my love for spicy dishes. After experimenting with various fillings, I settled on a creamy ranch blend that complements the heat of the jalapenos perfectly. The trick to balancing flavors is to ensure your filling has enough seasoning without overpowering the natural taste of the peppers. I was thrilled with how these turned out!

What I love most about these poppers is their versatility. You can adjust the level of spice by choosing mild or hot jalapenos, and even mix in different ingredients like cheese or bacon for extra flavor. They’re always a hit at parties, and I often find myself sharing them with friends who can’t get enough!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Spicy jalapeno kick balanced with creamy ranch filling
Easy to prepare and perfect for parties
Customizable with various fillings and toppings

Perfecting the Poppers

Achieving the ideal popper requires careful selection of jalapenos. Look for firm, bright green peppers that are free of blemishes. When halving your jalapenos, a sharp knife will make the process smoother, and using gloves can protect your hands from the spiciness. If you prefer a milder flavor, remove all the seeds and membranes, as these parts hold the most heat.

Baking your poppers at 400°F (200°C) is crucial for achieving a perfectly tender pepper without burning. Keep an eye on them as they bake, aiming for a golden, bubbly filling that should be slightly puffed. If you notice the tops getting too dark before the peppers are done, cover them loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning while they continue to cook.

Unlocking Flavor Depth

The creamy ranch filling plays a key role in balancing the heat of the jalapenos, and you can customize it to suit your taste. For a more complex flavor, consider adding chopped green onions or a dash of hot sauce to the filling. If you want to explore different cheeses, cream cheese works well with a blend of Monterrey Jack and pepper jack for a spicier kick.

For texture contrast, the crumbled bacon adds a delightful crunch and savory depth, but you can substitute it with crispy fried onions for a vegetarian option. Additionally, if you have leftovers, the filling is delicious on crackers or as a dip for veggies, making it a versatile component beyond just the poppers.

Ingredients

For the Poppers

12 large jalapenos, halved and seeded
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup ranch dressing
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/4 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
12 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled (optional)

Enjoy your Jalapeno Poppers with some dipping sauce!

Instructions

Prepare the Peppers

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes. Set them aside.

Make the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, ranch dressing, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined. If using bacon, fold it into the mixture.

Stuff the Poppers

Using a spoon or a piping bag, fill each jalapeno half with the creamy filling, packing it in generously.

Bake

Arrange the stuffed jalapenos on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15 minutes or until the jalapenos are tender and the filling is bubbly.

Let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, try adding diced jalapenos or hot sauce to the filling mixture.

Make-Ahead Tips

Jalapeno poppers can be assembled a day in advance. Simply prepare the filling and stuff the jalapenos, then cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When ready to serve, just pop them in the oven straight from the fridge, adding an extra 5 minutes to the baking time to ensure they heat through.

For those looking to batch cook, consider freezing the unbaked poppers. Arrange them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a zip-top bag. They can be baked straight from the freezer—just add 5-10 minutes to the baking time. This method is great for impromptu gatherings or game days!

Serving Suggestions

Serve your jalapeno poppers alongside a tangy dipping sauce like ranch or blue cheese to complement the spicy filling. I often pair them with fresh veggie sticks for a refreshing crunch. For an impressive platter, include an assortment of dipping sauces and toppings, such as diced tomatoes, onions, and jalapeno slices, allowing guests to customize their poppers.

These poppers are also fantastic as part of a larger spread. They fit perfectly on a buffet table alongside nachos, wings, and sliders. Storing leftovers is simple too; just keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore their crispy texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these jalapeno poppers ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the poppers, stuff them, and then store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

→ What's the best way to serve these poppers?

They are best served warm, straight from the oven. You can pair them with extra ranch dressing or hot sauce for dipping.

→ Can I freeze jalapeno poppers?

Absolutely! You can freeze them before baking. Just thaw them in the refrigerator and bake as directed.

→ What if I don't like spice?

You can use milder jalapenos or substitute with bell peppers for a completely non-spicy version.