Jalapeno Poppers with Herbed Ricotta

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Herbed Ricotta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 poppers
Ingredients: 12 large jalapeno peppers; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley; 1 tablespoon chopped chives; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; Olive oil spray

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love making Jalapeno Poppers with Herbed Ricotta for gatherings and parties. These spicy treats are quick to whip up and packed with flavor, making them an instant favorite among friends and family. The creamy, herbed ricotta filling balances the heat of the jalapenos perfectly, tempting everyone to come back for more. Plus, I love experimenting with different herbs to personalize the stuffing, which always impresses my guests and keeps things exciting in the kitchen.

Created by

Summer Blake

Last updated on 2026-01-14T00:28:08.426Z

Jalapeno Poppers with Herbed Ricotta are one of my go-to appetizers whenever I want to impress my guests. I remember the first time I made them; I was nervous, but the blend of spicy peppers and creamy filling turned out better than I had imagined. I realized that the key is using fresh herbs, which elevate the flavor and provide a nice contrast to the heat of the jalapenos.

Another tip I discovered is to soak the jalapenos in water before baking, which helps to soften them a bit. This small step transforms the texture and enhances the overall eating experience. Trust me, once you try these poppers at your next gathering, they will disappear from the plate in no time!

        Why You'll Love These Jalapeno Poppers
        Creamy herbed ricotta that balances perfectly with the spicy jalapenos
Easy to make and can be prepped ahead of time
A crowd-pleaser that's always a hit at parties

      

Choosing and Preparing Jalapenos

Selecting the right jalapenos is essential for your poppers. Look for firm, glossy peppers with a vibrant green color. The size matters, too; larger jalapenos provide more space for the delicious filling. When preparing them, remember that reducing the number of seeds and membranes results in a milder popper, but if you crave heat, keep some seeds intact. To make the process easier, use a small spoon or a melon baller to scoop out the insides efficiently without damaging the pepper walls.

After slicing the jalapenos, consider soaking them in cold water for about 30 minutes. This can help reduce some of the heat, making them more palatable for guests who may not enjoy spiciness. Rinsing them after soaking also helps to wash away excess oils, further taming their fiery kick. Just be cautious with the hot pepper oils on your hands; wearing gloves during this process is advisable to avoid any irritation.

Perfecting the Herbed Ricotta Filling

The star of this recipe is undoubtedly the herbed ricotta filling. To create an incredibly smooth mixture, ensure that both the ricotta and cream cheese are at room temperature before mixing. This prevents lumps, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. I recommend using a hand mixer to whip the filling until it’s creamy and glossy, which enhances the texture and mouthfeel once baked.

Feel free to experiment with the herbs in your filling! While parsley and chives are classic choices, adding freshly chopped basil or dill can elevate the flavor profile. If you're looking for a little extra zest, try incorporating a teaspoon of lemon zest or a splash of lemon juice. This addition can brighten the richness of the creamy filling, creating a delightful balance with the spicy jalapenos.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Jalapeno Poppers

For the Poppers

12 large jalapeno peppers
1 cup ricotta cheese
1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
1 tablespoon chopped chives
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
Olive oil spray

Ensure to wear gloves while handling jalapenos to avoid irritation.

Instructions

Preparation Steps

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes if you prefer a milder flavor.

Make the Filling

In a bowl, combine the ricotta, cream cheese, Parmesan, herbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and well blended.

Stuff and Coat the Peppers

Spoon the filling into each jalapeno half. Place breadcrumbs on a plate and coat the stuffed jalapenos with breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.

Bake the Poppers

Arrange the jalapeno poppers on a baking sheet, spray lightly with olive oil, and bake for 20 minutes until the breadcrumbs are golden and the filling is heated through.

Let the poppers cool slightly before serving. Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add diced bacon to the filling or serve with a zesty dipping sauce like ranch or spicy mayo.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

These jalapeno poppers are perfect for making ahead of time. You can prepare and stuff them, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a day before baking. If you want to store them for a longer period, consider freezing them before baking. Lay them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a zip-top bag. They can be baked straight from the freezer; just increase the cooking time by about 5-10 minutes!

For best results, always keep the poppers well-sealed to maintain freshness and avoid freezer burn. Reheat cooked poppers in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This method preserves their crispiness compared to a microwave, which may cause them to become soggy.

Variations and Serving Ideas

To make these poppers even more personalized, consider adding various fillings. For meat lovers, crumbled cooked bacon or sausage mixed into the herbed ricotta gives a savory twist. You can also play with cheese variety, substituting cheddar or pepper jack for a sharper taste. Just be cautious with the quantities to maintain a balanced filling consistency.

When serving, drizzle the hot poppers with a balsamic reduction or a spicy dipping sauce for an extra punch of flavor. They pair excellently with a refreshing salsa or guacamole on the side, making them an irresistible party snack. Garnishing with additional chopped herbs just before serving adds an appealing touch, enhancing both the presentation and flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these poppers ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the poppers the day before and refrigerate them. Bake them just before serving.

→ How can I make them spicier?

Leave some seeds in the jalapenos or add hot sauce to the cheese mixture for an extra kick.

→ Can I use a different cheese?

Absolutely! You can experiment with different cheeses like goat cheese or cheddar for varied flavors.

→ What's the best way to store leftovers?

Store leftover poppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to restore crispiness.