Stuffed Jalapenos with Feta

Name: Stuffed Jalapenos with Feta
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 10 fresh jalapenos; 1 cup cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional); Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Global Taste Adventures

I love a good party appetizer, and these stuffed jalapenos with feta always steal the show at any gathering. As someone who enjoys a little heat in my snacks, I find the combination of spicy jalapenos and creamy feta cheese utterly irresistible. Not only are they quick to make, but they also deliver a burst of flavor that keeps you coming back for more. Whether you're hosting friends or simply treating yourself, these jalapenos are sure to impress with their vibrant flavors and delightful crunch.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-16T13:44:28.512Z

When I first decided to make stuffed jalapenos, I was a bit concerned about balancing the spice with a flavorful filling. After a few trials, I discovered that mixing cream cheese with feta created the perfect creamy texture and taste. The richness of the feta beautifully counterbalances the heat of the jalapenos, making each bite a delicious experience.

Another essential tip I learned is to choose the right size jalapenos. Smaller ones pack more heat, but they also become wonderfully tender when roasted. I’ve found that cutting just the right amount off the top and hollowing them out carefully means I can stuff them with more filling, leading to a perfect ratio of spicy to creamy—and trust me, it makes all the difference!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A perfect balance of heat and creaminess
Easy to prepare and serve at any gathering
Versatile for adapting with various fillings

      

Choosing the Right Jalapenos

When selecting jalapenos for this recipe, look for firm, vibrant green peppers with minimal blemishes. The size of the jalapenos matters, too—medium-sized ones are ideal for stuffing. Smaller jalapenos allow for bite-sized appetizers, while larger ones provide more filling space. If you're worried about the heat, you can taste a small piece of the pepper before cooking, as the heat level can vary significantly from pepper to pepper.

To adjust the spiciness, consider the sauce method. Even after removing the seeds and membranes, some heat will remain. For a milder version, opt for sweeter varieties such as mini bell peppers or Anaheim peppers instead of jalapenos. Conversely, if you prefer a spicier kick, leave some seeds in or substitute some of the cheese mixture with diced pickled jalapenos for an extra zing.

Mastering the Cheese Filling

The combination of cheeses in the filling is essential for achieving the right balance between creamy and tangy flavors. Cream cheese serves as a base, providing a smooth texture, while feta brings a salty, rich flavor that elevates the dish. The addition of cheddar not only enhances flavor but also adds a lovely golden color to the finished product. Ensure your cream cheese is well softened, as this helps in creating a homogenous filling that won’t crack during baking.

For those looking to customize the flavors, consider adding herbs such as oregano or dill, or even some finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes for added depth. If you're aiming for a dairy-free version, swap the cheeses for cashew cream and nutritional yeast, which maintains a creamy texture while offering a cheesy flavor.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare these delicious stuffed jalapenos.

Ingredients

10 fresh jalapenos
1 cup cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Once you have all your ingredients ready, you'll be well on your way to making these flavorful bites.

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your stuffed jalapenos.

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes. This will help reduce the heat slightly, making them more palatable.

Make the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, crumbled feta cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix until smooth and well blended.

Stuff the Jalapenos

Using a small spoon or a piping bag, carefully fill each jalapeno half with the cheese mixture. Pack it firmly for a generous filling.

Bake

Place the stuffed jalapenos on a baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the jalapenos are tender.

Serve

Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, then serve warm.

Your delicious stuffed jalapenos are now ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, you can add cooked bacon bits to the cheese filling or sprinkle some breadcrumbs on top before baking.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These stuffed jalapenos can be prepared in advance, making them a convenient option for gatherings. After stuffing the jalapenos, place them in an airtight container separated by parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together. They can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking. This not only saves time but allows the flavors to meld. If you're planning to freeze them, do so before baking; they can be stored frozen for up to three months.

To cook frozen stuffed jalapenos, simply place them on a baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the jalapenos are tender. This longer bake time ensures that they heat through completely while maintaining the right texture.

Serving Suggestions

These stuffed jalapenos are delightful as-is, but pairing them with a cool dipping sauce enhances your presentation and flavor profile. A simple sour cream-based dip or cooling yogurt sauce with fresh herbs can balance the heat perfectly. Alternatively, a zesty salsa or guacamole can add freshness and acidity to each bite, cutting through the richness of the cheese filling.

Consider serving these appetizers on a platter with a variety of other snacks such as tortilla chips, carrot sticks, and sliced cucumbers for a vibrant appetizer spread. You can also experiment with toppings; a sprinkle of chopped green onions or crumbled bacon right before serving adds an appealing crunch and extra layers of flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these in advance?

Yes! You can prepare the jalapenos and filling a day ahead, just leave the baking until you're ready to serve them.

→ What can I substitute for feta cheese?

You can use goat cheese or a different crumbly cheese, but it might change the flavor and texture slightly.

→ Are these spicy?

They will have some heat, but removing the seeds and membranes will greatly reduce the spiciness. Plus, the creaminess of the cheese helps balance it.

→ Can I freeze stuffed jalapenos?

Yes, you can freeze them before baking. Just make sure to wrap them well to avoid freezer burn. Bake them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.