Jalapeno Poppers with Herb Yogurt Filling

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Herb Yogurt Filling
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 poppers
Ingredients: 12 fresh jalapenos; 1 cup plain Greek yogurt; 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened; 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped; 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped; 1 clove garlic, minced; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Paprika, for garnish

Highlighted under: Authentic Global Cuisine Collection

I absolutely love making Jalapeno Poppers with Herb Yogurt Filling, especially for gatherings. This recipe brings a unique twist to traditional poppers by using a creamy yogurt mixture infused with fresh herbs. The combination of spicy jalapenos and the cool, tangy yogurt is simply irresistible! Plus, making them from scratch allows me to control the flavors, and it’s always a hit with friends and family. I can't wait for you to try these; they’re perfect for dipping and provide a delightful kick!

Created by

Prudence Whitby

Last updated on 2026-01-14T03:33:34.577Z

When I first attempted Jalapeno Poppers with Herb Yogurt Filling, I was experimenting with flavors in my kitchen. I knew I wanted a creamy filling, but the traditional cheese just didn’t excite me. After trying various herbs, the perfect balance of fresh dill, chives, and a hint of garlic took my poppers to the next level. My friends couldn’t get enough of them!

One detail that makes these poppers stand out is the choice to bake instead of fry. Baking not only reduces the calories but also brings out the flavors in the herbs beautifully. I’ve found that a sprinkle of paprika on top before baking gives them a lovely color and a slight smoky flavor.

Why You Will Love These Jalapeno Poppers
Spicy jalapeno heat paired with a cooling, herby yogurt filling
Baked for a healthier twist without sacrificing flavor
Perfect for parties, game days, or as a delightful snack

The Perfect Balance of Flavors

The spicy heat of jalapenos is balanced beautifully by the creamy herb yogurt filling, creating a delightful contrast with every bite. By using plain Greek yogurt, you not only achieve a delicious tang but also a thick, luscious texture that holds up against the heat of the peppers. The combination of garlic, dill, and chives in the filling enhances freshness, making each popper feel light yet satisfying, perfect for any occasion.

Controlling the spice level is crucial when preparing jalapeno poppers. If you prefer a milder kick, removing the seeds and membranes is essential, as this is where most of the heat resides. On the other hand, if you're a heat enthusiast, you might opt to leave some seeds in the jalapenos or even use a spicier variety to elevate the heat factor further, giving you the option to customize to your personal taste.

Baking for Healthier Enjoyment

One of the highlights of this recipe is that the poppers are baked rather than fried. This method results in a crispy exterior while keeping the filling creamy and decadent without excess oil. To ensure the breadcrumbs achieve that perfect golden brown color, keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of baking, as they can go from perfectly crispy to burnt fairly quickly. A light drizzle of olive oil before baking can help the breadcrumbs toast evenly and achieve that desirable crunch.

If you're looking for a gluten-free option, consider using crushed rice crackers or gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of traditional breadcrumbs. This swap maintains the desired crunch while accommodating those with dietary restrictions. Additionally, you might experiment with different herbs in the yogurt filling, like basil or cilantro, to offer variations in flavor that can suit different palettes or themes of your gathering.

Ingredients for Jalapeno Poppers

For the Poppers

12 fresh jalapenos
1 cup plain Greek yogurt
1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1 tablespoon olive oil
Paprika, for garnish

Notes:

Feel free to adjust the level of spice by removing some seeds from the jalapenos, or substituting with milder peppers!

Instructions

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Carefully slice the jalapenos in half lengthwise, and remove the seeds and membranes for less heat.

Make the Filling

In a bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt, cream cheese, dill, chives, garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Fill the Peppers

Spoon the creamy herb mixture generously into each jalapeno half.

Coat with Breadcrumbs

In a separate bowl, combine breadcrumbs with olive oil. Sprinkle the mixture over the filled jalapenos and then place them on a baking sheet.

Bake

Bake the poppers for 15 minutes or until they are golden brown and heated through. Garnish with paprika before serving.

Enjoy these poppers hot from the oven with your favorite dipping sauce!

Pro Tips

For an extra crunch, consider adding some chopped nuts to the filling. Adjust seasoning based on your preference
a little lemon juice can also brighten the flavors.

Make-Ahead Tips

These jalapeno poppers are an excellent choice for make-ahead preparation. You can assemble them up to a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap. This allows the flavors to meld and can enhance the overall taste. When you're ready to bake, simply remove them from the fridge and pop them in the oven, allowing an extra 5-10 minutes of baking time if they are chilled.

If you want to prepare them even further in advance, consider freezing the assembled poppers. Once filled, place them on a baking sheet to firm up in the freezer before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be baked from frozen—just add a few additional minutes to the baking time, and you’ll still achieve that crispy and delicious result.

Serving Suggestions

For serving, consider pairing the jalapeno poppers with a tangy dipping sauce like a homemade ranch or a zesty cilantro-lime dressing. The cool flavors contrast nicely with the heat of the poppers, enhancing the overall snacking experience. Present them on a large platter with a mix of fresh veggies or a side salad to create a vibrant finger food display that is both eye-catching and delicious.

These poppers also make an excellent addition to a potluck spread or as an appetizer for game day. They can stand alone or complement a selection of other finger foods, like sliders or stuffed mushrooms, creating a varied menu. Guests will appreciate the unique taste each popper brings, making it a must-try at your next gathering!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these poppers ahead of time?

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

→ How spicy are these jalapeno poppers?

The spice level varies based on whether you remove the seeds and membranes. Leaving them in will make them spicier.

→ Can I freeze jalapeno poppers?

Absolutely! They can be frozen before or after baking. If freezing uncooked, just bake directly from the freezer; you may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

→ What are some good dipping sauces to serve with these?

I recommend serving with ranch dressing, spicy mayo, or a squeeze of lime for a refreshing complement!