Jalapeno Poppers with Herbed Ricotta

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Herbed Ricotta
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 fresh jalapeño peppers; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped; 1 clove garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil for drizzling

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making Jalapeno Poppers with Herbed Ricotta for gatherings or cozy evenings at home. The combination of spicy jalapeños and creamy ricotta is simply irresistible, elevating the traditional dish to something truly special. As I prepare them, I can’t help but get excited for the explosion of flavors in every bite. This recipe is easy to follow, and trust me, your friends and family will be begging for the recipe once they experience this delightful treat!

Created by

Marianne Hughes

Last updated on 2026-01-14T03:40:09.784Z

When I first tried making Jalapeno Poppers with Herbed Ricotta, I was surprised at how well the flavors meld together. The ricotta cheese mixed with fresh herbs creates a creamy texture that perfectly balances the heat from the jalapeños. I like to add a hint of garlic to my filling for extra depth, and it really makes a difference!

Finding the right jalapeños is key—they should be firm and bright green for the best results. I also learned that if you soak them in water before baking, it can help reduce the spiciness if you happen to pick some hot ones. This simple tip turned out to be a game-changer for my family and friends who are sensitive to heat!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Spicy kick from fresh jalapeños complemented by herbed ricotta
Creamy mixture that adds a savory twist to your appetizer spread
Quick and easy to make, perfect for last-minute gatherings

      

Mastering the Jalapeño Prep

Preparing the jalapeños is crucial for the success of your poppers. I recommend using gloves during this process, as the oils from the peppers can be quite potent and irritating to sensitive skin. After slicing them, inspect each half to ensure all seeds and membranes are removed. This will not only reduce the heat to a more manageable level but also create enough space for that creamy filling.

If you're looking for a milder alternative, consider using Anaheim or Poblano peppers. Their larger size provides plenty of room for stuffing and they have a significantly lower heat level compared to jalapeños. Just remember that the texture may differ slightly, as these peppers have a thinner flesh and can roast down more quickly than their spicier counterpart.

The Role of Fresh Herbs

Fresh herbs play a vital role in elevating the creamy ricotta filling of your jalapeño poppers. Basil and chives not only provide a burst of color but also infuse the mixture with bright, aromatic flavors that cut through the richness of the cheeses. Feel free to experiment with other herbs, such as thyme or oregano, to customize the filling to your taste.

For added depth, consider incorporating a dash of lemon zest into the filling. The acidity from the lemon will complement the creaminess of the ricotta while enhancing the overall flavor profile. Just be cautious not to overdo it; a little goes a long way when it comes to brightening up savory dishes.

Serving and Storage Suggestions

Once the poppers are out of the oven, let them cool for a few minutes to allow the filling to set. I like to serve these alongside a cooling dip, such as sour cream or a yogurt-based sauce spiced with lime and cilantro. This creates a delightful contrast to the heat of the jalapeños. They make for a perfect appetizer or snack at any gathering.

If you find yourself with leftovers, fear not! These jalapeño poppers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop them back in a warm oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until they regain their crispness. Avoid the microwave, as it will make the poppers soggy.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to get started:

Ingredients for Jalapeno Poppers

12 fresh jalapeño peppers
1 cup ricotta cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for drizzling

Now that you have everything, let’s move on to the steps!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious Jalapeno Poppers:

Prepare the Jalapeños

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Carefully slice each jalapeño in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes. Be cautious not to touch your face during this process, as the oils can irritate your skin.

Make the Filling

In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, chopped basil, chives, minced garlic, and season with salt and pepper. Mix until smooth and well combined.

Fill the Jalapeños

Using a spoon, fill each jalapeño half with the herbed ricotta mixture, ensuring they are generously heaped.

Bake the Poppers

Place the stuffed jalapeños on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle lightly with olive oil and bake for about 15 minutes, or until the tops are golden and bubbly.

Once done, let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your tasty Jalapeno Poppers!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, you can sprinkle some breadcrumbs on top before baking for a crunchy texture.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your poppers come out too oily, it may be due to an excess of olive oil used during baking. When drizzling, just a light coat is necessary, as the filling will release some moisture while baking. If you’re aiming for crispy poppers, try placing them on a cooling rack set over the baking sheet to allow air circulation while they cook.

Moreover, if after baking the jalapeños remain firm and undercooked, you can increase the baking time by 5-minute increments. Keep a close eye on them, as you want them to be tender yet maintain structure for easy handling.

Variations to Try

For those who love a little extra heat, consider adding cooked chorizo or crumbled bacon into the ricotta filling. This not only amps up the spice factor but also adds a savory, meaty component that complements the creamy filling beautifully. Just remember to adjust the seasoning accordingly, especially salt, since these ingredients can be quite salty.

Another delightful variation is to top the poppers with a sprinkle of breadcrumbs before baking. This adds an enjoyable crunch once baked. To elevate them further, mix the breadcrumbs with grated Parmesan or your favorite cheese for an irresistible cheesy crust.

Scaling the Recipe

Scaling the recipe to serve a larger crowd is quite easy. Since the jalapeños are typically sold in bulk, you can simply multiply the amounts of the filling ingredients by the number of peppers you plan to use. Just ensure you have enough baking space, as overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking.

If you're making a larger batch, consider prepping the filling in advance. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before filling the jalapeños. To save time on the day of your gathering, you can even fill the jalapeños ahead of time and hold them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the poppers, fill them, and store them in the refrigerator for a few hours before baking.

→ What can I use instead of ricotta cheese?

You can substitute ricotta with cream cheese or mascarpone for a richer flavor.

→ Are these poppers suitable for freezing?

Absolutely! Feel free to freeze the uncooked poppers and bake them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

→ How spicy are these jalapeño poppers?

The spiciness can vary depending on the type of jalapeños you use. If you want less heat, make sure to remove all the seeds and membranes.