Sun-Dried Tomato Jalapeno Poppers

Name: Sun-Dried Tomato Jalapeno Poppers
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 poppers
Ingredients: 12 jalapeno peppers, halved and seeds removed; 1 cup cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped; 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/4 cup green onions, chopped; 1 tsp garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Oven-Baked Delights

I absolutely love making these Sun-Dried Tomato Jalapeno Poppers, especially when entertaining friends or family! The combination of creamy cheese and tangy sun-dried tomatoes encased in a spicy jalapeno pepper creates a delicious contrast that is irresistible. Baking them makes the flavors meld together beautifully while ensuring a slightly crisp exterior. I can’t help but take a moment to enjoy the vibrant colors and delightful aromas wafting from the oven. They are the perfect balance of heat and flavor, and you'll definitely want to keep this recipe close at hand!

Created by

Noah

Last updated on 2026-01-16T14:48:29.778Z

When I first stumbled upon the idea of using sun-dried tomatoes in jalapeno poppers, I knew I had to give it a try. The richness of the tomatoes adds an unexpected depth of flavor that sets these poppers apart. I've experimented with different cheese blends to find the perfect creamy consistency, and the tanginess from the sun-dried tomatoes complements the spicy jalapeno perfectly.

Each time I serve them, the reaction is always the same: rave reviews! I recommend letting them cool slightly before serving to enhance their flavor. Plus, they hold together better once they're a bit less piping hot. Trust me, these poppers will be a hit at any gathering!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich sun-dried tomato flavor with a spicy kick
Creamy, cheesy filling that satisfies every bite
Perfect balance of heat and flavor for a crowd-pleaser

      

The Best Jalapenos for Stuffing

When selecting jalapenos for your poppers, look for firm peppers that are shiny and vibrant in color. These indicate freshness and optimal flavor. Avoid jalapenos that have soft spots or wrinkles, as they may be past their prime, affecting both the taste and texture of your dish.

Consider the heat level when choosing jalapenos: larger ones tend to have a mild flavor and fewer seeds, while smaller jalapenos are spicier. If you're unsure about the heat, feel free to taste a small piece of the raw pepper before committing to your popper filling. You can also balance the heat by adjusting the amount of sun-dried tomatoes or cheese in your filling.

Enhancing Your Filling

The cream cheese in this recipe acts as a perfect base for the filling, providing a rich and creamy texture that balances the sharpness of the cheddar. To elevate the flavor further, consider adding a dash of smoked paprika or crushed red pepper flakes, which can deepen the taste and add an extra layer of complexity.

If you’re looking for dairy-free options, substitute cream cheese with a plant-based version or cashew cream. Just ensure that whatever substitute you use can achieve a similar creamy consistency, allowing the flavors from the sun-dried tomatoes and seasonings to shine through without being overly dry.

Serving and Storing Your Poppers

These Sun-Dried Tomato Jalapeno Poppers make for a fantastic appetizer, but they can also be served as a main dish alongside a fresh salad or grilled vegetables. For added flavor, drizzle with a balsamic glaze or sprinkle some fresh herbs just before serving. They’re equally delicious served cold, so don’t worry if they cool down a bit before your guests arrive!

If you have leftovers, store the poppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. You can also freeze the unbaked poppers for a quick meal; just ensure they’re properly wrapped to avoid freezer burn.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

12 jalapeno peppers, halved and seeds removed
1 cup cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup green onions, chopped
1 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes carefully.

Make the Filling

In a bowl, combine the cream cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, cheddar cheese, green onions, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Stuff the Jalapenos

Using a spoon, generously fill each halved jalapeno with the cheese mixture.

Bake

Arrange the stuffed jalapenos on a baking tray and bake for 25 minutes or until the jalapenos are tender and the filling is bubbling.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding crumbled bacon or spices like paprika to the cheese filling.

Common Troubleshooting Tips

If your jalapenos are too spicy for your taste, try soaking them in a mixture of equal parts vinegar and water for about 30 minutes before stuffing. This can help mellow their heat. Alternatively, opt for mini bell peppers instead; they have a sweet flavor and are completely mild yet still fun to stuff.

Sometimes the filling may not hold its shape after baking. This can occur if the filling is too wet. Ensure your sun-dried tomatoes are well-drained and chopped finely to incorporate better with the cream cheese, preventing excess moisture from impacting the final texture.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe can easily be scaled up for larger gatherings. For every six additional jalapenos, simply increase the filling ingredients proportionately. Make sure to mix everything evenly and taste as you go to maintain balance in flavors.

If you’re cooking for a smaller group, you can also prep half of the jalapenos and freeze the remaining filling for later use. Just remember to allow that filling stack to come to room temperature before stuffing fresh jalapenos. It’s a great way to enjoy these poppers without the hassle of making the filling from scratch every time!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these poppers ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the stuffed jalapenos a few hours in advance and store them in the fridge until you're ready to bake.

→ What can I use if I don't have sun-dried tomatoes?

You can substitute with roasted red peppers for a different but still delicious flavor.

→ How spicy are these poppers?

The heat level depends on the jalapenos used. Removing the seeds and membranes reduces the heat significantly.

→ Can I reduce the calories in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can use reduced-fat cream cheese and cheese for a lighter version.