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: 12 poppers
Ingredients: 12 large jalapeno peppers; 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped; 4 oz feta cheese, crumbled; 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1/4 tsp paprika; 1/4 tsp salt; Olive oil spray

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love making Jalapeno Poppers with Spinach Feta Filling! The combination of spicy jalapenos and creamy, flavorful filling creates a perfect bite-sized treat that never fails to impress. Whenever I serve these poppers at gatherings, they disappear quickly! I enjoy experimenting with the filling, and adding spinach not only boosts the nutrition but also balances the heat for a delicious twist. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll want to make it again and again for all occasions.

Created by

Arielle Baxter

Last updated on 2026-01-14T01:55:12.954Z

Making Jalapeno Poppers with Spinach Feta Filling has become one of my staple recipes, especially during the fall season. I love how the spicy kick from the jalapenos pairs beautifully with the rich feta and vibrant spinach. I found that baking them instead of frying keeps them lighter and brings out the flavors more effectively.

Each time I make them, I experiment with the spices, often adding a pinch of garlic powder or even a touch of lemon juice for brightness. This little extra makes a big difference and elevates the entire dish!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Spicy jalapenos balanced with creamy spinach and feta
Easy to prepare for any gathering or game day
Baked for a healthier twist without sacrificing flavor

      

Understanding the Heat Level

When working with jalapenos, the heat can vary significantly between individual peppers. If you prefer a milder version, be sure to remove all the seeds and membranes, as these parts contain most of the capsaicin—the compound that gives peppers their heat. For those who enjoy a good kick, leave some of the seeds in your filling. You can also mix in a milder pepper, like a poblano, to bring additional flavor without overpowering the dish.

If you're serving guests with different spice tolerances, consider preparing a batch of poppers with varying levels of heat. This can be done by using a combination of jalapenos and sweeter peppers, ensuring there's something for everyone. Additionally, serving them with a cooling dip, such as a yogurt or ranch-based sauce, allows those who find the jalapenos too spicy to enjoy the flavors without the burn.

Crafting the Perfect Filling

The filling for these jalapeno poppers is where you can get creative. The mix of spinach and feta adds a creamy texture and a burst of flavor that compliments the heat of the jalapeno. If you're short on feta, crumbled goat cheese is an excellent substitute, providing a similar tanginess. You can also enhance the filling by adding diced sun-dried tomatoes or olives for a Mediterranean twist.

For a bit of extra richness, consider folding in some shredded chicken or cooked sausage into the cheese mixture. This addition not only ups the protein content but also results in a more filling appetizer. Adjust the seasonings accordingly to accommodate these additions, especially keeping an eye on the salt, depending on whether your protein choices are pre-seasoned.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients for these delightful jalapeno poppers!

Ingredients

12 large jalapeno peppers
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
4 oz feta cheese, crumbled
1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 clove garlic, minced
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp paprika
1/4 tsp salt
Olive oil spray

Once you have everything ready, let's move on to the cooking steps!

Instructions

Here’s how to make these irresistible Jalapeno Poppers:

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice each jalapeno in half lengthwise and carefully remove the seeds and membranes to reduce spiciness if desired.

Make the Filling

In a bowl, combine chopped spinach, feta cheese, cream cheese, mozzarella cheese, minced garlic, black pepper, paprika, and salt. Mix until well combined.

Stuff the Jalapenos

Using a spoon, fill each jalapeno half with the cheese mixture, pressing gently to pack it in. Place the stuffed peppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake

Lightly spray the poppers with olive oil spray and bake for about 15 minutes or until the tops are golden and bubbly.

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

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding diced bacon to the filling. You can also adjust the heat level by varying the amount of seeds left in the jalapenos.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These jalapeno poppers make for a fantastic make-ahead appetizer. You can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to stuff the jalapenos right before baking to keep them fresh. If you want to prepare the whole dish in advance, assemble the poppers and then cover and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking them straight from the fridge—for a little longer than the recommended baking time.

For longer storage, consider freezing the stuffed jalapenos before baking. Arrange the poppers in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them, bake straight from the freezer, allowing for a few extra minutes in the oven until they’re hot and golden.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate the experience of your jalapeno poppers, consider serving them with a variety of dipping sauces. A cool avocado crema, made with ripe avocados, Greek yogurt, lime juice, and garlic, complements the poppers beautifully while providing a soothing contrast to the spice. Alternatively, try a sweet and tangy barbecue sauce or a zesty peach salsa for a flavor explosion.

For presentation, arrange the baked jalapenos on a colorful platter garnished with fresh herbs or citrus slices to add vibrancy. Pair them with your favorite drinks, such as a light beer or a refreshing cocktail, for a perfect match during game day or gatherings. They'll become a staple for any festive occasion!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these poppers in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the jalapenos and filling ahead of time, then bake them when ready to serve.

→ Can I freeze the stuffed jalapenos?

Absolutely! Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

→ What can I substitute for feta cheese?

You can use goat cheese or cream cheese as alternatives for a different flavor profile.

→ Are there any vegetarian options for the filling?

Yes! You can add other vegetables like diced bell peppers, corn, or black beans for a hearty vegetarian filling.