Crispy Pesto Jalapeno Poppers

Name: Crispy Pesto Jalapeno Poppers
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 poppers
Ingredients: 12 large jalapenos; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup basil pesto; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 egg, beaten; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Cultures on a Plate Recipes

I love making Crispy Pesto Jalapeno Poppers for my friends during our weekend gatherings. The creamy pesto filling balances beautifully with the heat of the jalapenos, and the crispy coating adds a delightful crunch. Each bite bursts with flavor, and it's a fun finger food that everyone enjoys. Plus, this recipe is quick and easy to make, making it perfect for last-minute party prep. Trust me, these poppers will become a favorite at any gathering!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-15T10:59:30.322Z

I still remember the first time I tried making these poppers. The combination of pesto and jalapenos was something I’d never considered, but it turned out to be a match made in heaven. I experimented with different fillings, but it was this creamy, herb-infused pesto that truly elevated the flavors. The key is to blend the cream cheese well with the pesto for a perfectly smooth filling that packs a punch without overwhelming the palates.

One of my favorite things about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can easily swap out the pesto for different fillings, like cheese or spices, depending on what you have on hand. Another tip I discovered is to ensure the jalapenos are sliced in half but not too thin; this keeps the filling snug and prevents it from spilling out during cooking. It’s small details like these that make all the difference!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        A perfect blend of spicy and creamy flavors
Crunchy texture that contrasts with the smooth filling
Ideal for game days, parties, or as a snack

      

Key Techniques for Perfect Poppers

One crucial technique to ensure your Crispy Pesto Jalapeno Poppers come out perfect is to handle the jalapenos with care. When slicing them in half, use a sharp knife to get clean cuts, which will help the halves stay together during filling and baking. Additionally, removing the seeds and membranes will significantly reduce the heat, but if you prefer a spicier popper, you can leave some seeds intact or even use serrano peppers instead.

While mixing your filling, make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature for a smoother blend. If the cream cheese is too cold, it won’t incorporate well with the pesto, resulting in lumps. You can easily soften cream cheese by letting it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes or microwaving it for about 10-15 seconds. Just be cautious not to melt it!

Breading and Baking Tips

To get that desired crunch on your poppers, the coating process is key. The combination of breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan creates a flavorful crust. While traditional breadcrumbs work well, you can also experiment with panko breadcrumbs for an extra crispy texture. For gluten-free options, substitute regular breadcrumbs with crushed cornflakes or a gluten-free breadcrumb alternative.

When baking, make sure to arrange the poppers on the baking sheet with enough space between them. This allows hot air to circulate around each popper, ensuring even cooking and crispiness. Look for a golden brown color on the coating as a sign that they are done; this typically takes about 15 minutes, but keep an eye on them to avoid over-browning.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make your crispy pesto jalapeno poppers:

For the Poppers

12 large jalapenos
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup basil pesto
1 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg, beaten
Salt and pepper to taste

Once you have all your ingredients ready, you’re all set to start making these delicious poppers!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your crispy jalapeno poppers:

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes for less heat.

Mix the Filling

In a bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with the basil pesto. Stir until well blended, then season with salt and pepper.

Fill the Jalapenos

Using a spoon or piping bag, fill each jalapeno half with the pesto cream cheese mixture, packing it tightly.

Coat the Poppers

In a separate bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with grated Parmesan. Dip each filled jalapeno in the beaten egg, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture.

Bake

Arrange the jalapeno poppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15 minutes, or until golden and crispy.

Serve

Allow the poppers to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy them hot with your favorite dipping sauce!

These poppers are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven and shared with friends!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding crumbled bacon to the filling or sprinkling some chili flakes on top before baking. If you prefer a milder version, opt for sweet bell peppers instead of jalapenos.

Serving Suggestions

These Crispy Pesto Jalapeno Poppers can be served on their own, but they pair beautifully with a variety of dipping sauces. Consider whipping up a creamy ranch or a zesty cilantro-lime dip to enhance the flavors. For an extra kick, a spicy aioli made with mayo, garlic, and hot sauce can add an exciting twist.

If you're feeling adventurous, you can also experiment with toppings. A sprinkle of chopped fresh cilantro or a drizzle of balsamic glaze post-baking can elevate the dish and provide a fresh contrast to the rich filling.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These poppers are perfect for make-ahead preparations. You can prepare the jalapenos and fill them with the cream cheese mixture a day in advance. Just cover them with plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator. When you're ready to serve, simply bread and bake them as per the recipe; they might need a minute or two longer in the oven if they're coming straight from the fridge.

Leftover poppers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For re-crisping, place them back in a hot oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 5-7 minutes. However, they’re best enjoyed fresh out of the oven!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these poppers ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the jalapenos and filling the night before, then assemble and bake them shortly before serving.

→ What can I use instead of basil pesto?

You can use sun-dried tomato pesto or even a spinach and artichoke dip for a different flavor profile.

→ Are these poppers gluten-free?

To make them gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of traditional ones.

→ Can I freeze the poppers?

Yes, you can freeze them before baking. Just thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed when ready.