Grilled Veggie Jalapeno Poppers

Name: Grilled Veggie Jalapeno Poppers
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 12 poppers
Ingredients: 12 large jalapeños; 1 cup cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup diced bell peppers; 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil for brushing

I love making Grilled Veggie Jalapeno Poppers for gatherings because they are always a hit. The smoky flavor of the grilled jalapenos, combined with the creamy filling, creates the perfect bite-sized treat. These poppers are not only delicious but also customizable, allowing me to experiment with different fillings. I often serve them with a cooling dipping sauce to balance the heat, making them enjoyable for everyone. Try my recipe and bring a burst of flavor to your next barbecue!

Created by

Olivia

Last updated on 2026-01-15T10:43:30.039Z

When I first grilled jalapeño poppers at a summer barbecue, I was amazed at the positive feedback. My friends loved how the freshness of the veggies paired perfectly with the spice of the jalapeños. Since then, I've perfected my recipe by experimenting with various fillings, such as cream cheese mixed with herbs and spices, which really helps elevate the flavors.

I also discovered that leaving some seeds in the jalapeños provides just the right amount of heat while still being enjoyable for non-spicy food lovers. A quick tip is to soak the wooden skewers in water for about 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning.

        Why You'll Love These Poppers
        Smoky and spicy goodness in every bite
Creamy filling that balances the heat
Perfect party appetizer or snack
Easy to customize with your favorite ingredients

      

Perfecting the Grilling Process

Grilling jalapeños requires attention to temperature to achieve that perfect smoky flavor. I recommend preheating your grill to medium heat, around 350°F to 400°F. This allows the jalapeños to soften evenly without burning. If you're using a charcoal grill, you can gauge the heat by holding your hand above the grill; you should be able to keep it there for about 5 seconds. Monitoring your grill closely will ensure that the poppers cook through but still retain their beautiful color and texture.

When grilling the poppers, it's important to place them cut side up. This positioning allows the filling to get that slightly charred top while the jalapeño flesh becomes tender. Keep an eye on them as they grill, checking every few minutes, and adjust the placement if necessary. If you notice the filling bubbling but the peppers are still firm, it’s a sign they’re nearing readiness. This balance of textures is key to an enjoyable bite!

Ingredient Interactions and Customization

The star of these poppers is undoubtedly the spicy jalapeño, but the creamy filling is what truly makes them special. The cream cheese acts as a cohesive binder, while the shredded cheddar provides robust flavor and a delightful stretch when melted. If you're looking to mix things up, consider adding crumbled bacon or sautéed mushrooms for an extra layer of flavor. Keep in mind that using low-fat cream cheese may result in a less creamy filling, so full-fat options are preferable for richness.

For those looking to cater to dietary restrictions, there are excellent alternatives. You can substitute cream cheese with a dairy-free version or an herbed goat cheese for a tangier profile. Additionally, consider using spicy pepper jack cheese in place of cheddar to amp up the heat. This versatility not only helps achieve different flavor profiles but also makes the poppers accessible for various dietary preferences.

Ingredients

For Grilled Veggie Jalapeno Poppers

12 large jalapeños
1 cup cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup diced bell peppers
1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for brushing

Instructions

Prepare the Jalapeños

Preheat your grill to medium heat. Slice the jalapeños in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes, keeping gloves on to protect your hands from the heat.

Make the Filling

In a bowl, combine the cream cheese, cheddar cheese, bell peppers, green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended.

Fill the Jalapeños

Using a spoon, generously fill each jalapeño half with the cheese mixture, ensuring they are packed tightly.

Grill the Poppers

Brush the filled jalapeños with olive oil and place them on the grill. Grill for about 10 minutes until the jalapeños are tender and the filling is bubbly.

Serve

Remove from the grill and serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

Pro Tips

For a milder version, you can use yellow bell peppers instead of hot ones in the filling or choose less spicy jalapeños. Additionally, serve with ranch or yogurt dip for a refreshing contrast.

Make-Ahead Tips

Preparing the filling in advance can save time on the day of your barbecue. You can mix the cheeses and veggies, then store the mixture in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just ensure you give it a thorough stir before filling the jalapeños. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste of the poppers.

If you wish to pre-grill, you can assemble the poppers and grill them for about 5 minutes (just until slightly softened), then remove and cool. Store them in a sealed container and refrigerate. When you're ready to serve, pop them back on the grill for around 10–12 minutes for a fresh, just-grilled flavor.

Serving Suggestions

To balance the heat from the jalapeños, I love serving these poppers with a cooling dipping sauce. A simple mixture of sour cream, lime juice, and a hint of cilantro makes a refreshing accompaniment. Alternatively, a creamy ranch dressing or a spicy yogurt dip can elevate the flavor profile even further. Providing a few dipping options allows guests to mix and match according to their taste.

If you have leftover poppers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat them on a baking sheet in a 350°F oven for about 5–7 minutes until heated through, ensuring they stay crispy. This way, you can enjoy these flavorful bites even after the party!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these poppers ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the jalapeños and filling a few hours in advance, then fill and grill them just before serving.

→ What if I can't find jalapeños?

You can substitute with other chili peppers like poblano or banana peppers for a different flavor experience.

→ Are these poppers gluten-free?

Absolutely! All the ingredients used in this recipe are gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

→ Can I bake these instead of grilling?

Definitely! Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the filled jalapeños for about 20 minutes or until the filling is bubbly.