Creamy Caesar Jalapeno Poppers

Name: Creamy Caesar Jalapeno Poppers
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 poppers
Ingredients: 12 fresh jalapenos; 1 cup cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup Caesar dressing; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tablespoon minced garlic; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Sweet Recipes

I love making Creamy Caesar Jalapeno Poppers for gatherings, as they always steal the show. The combination of creamy Caesar dressing with fresh jalapenos creates a unique flavor profile that surprises everyone. As I bake them, the medley of cheese and spice fills the kitchen with a mouthwatering aroma. These poppers are not only delicious but also quick to prepare, making them an ideal appetizer for busy hosts like me. I often serve them with a side of ranch for an extra zing that enhances the experience.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-16T14:42:28.636Z

Creating these Creamy Caesar Jalapeno Poppers has become a cherished tradition in my household. I love experimenting with different fillings, but this creamy Caesar twist is truly my favorite. Roasting the jalapenos brings out their natural sweetness, which perfectly balances the zing from the dressing.

I remember the first time I served them at a party; the entire platter disappeared in minutes. Watching my friends enjoy the spicy goodness makes it all worthwhile, and I make sure to include a fresh lemon wedge on the side for a little extra flavor boost.

        Why You'll Love These Poppers
        Bold flavor of creamy Caesar dressing enhances each bite
The perfect level of spice from fresh jalapenos
Quick and easy to make, great for any occasion

      

Perfecting the Filling

The filling for Creamy Caesar Jalapeno Poppers is what truly elevates them. The cream cheese provides a rich, velvety base that balances the spiciness of the jalapenos. It's essential to ensure the cream cheese is fully softened; otherwise, it won’t blend smoothly with the Caesar dressing and cheeses. I always recommend letting it sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before mixing. This ensures a creamy consistency that easily fills the peppers without any lumps.

When choosing your Caesar dressing, opt for a high-quality brand or homemade version if time permits. A well-balanced Caesar dressing will impart not just creaminess but also the distinctive tang from ingredients like anchovy and Worcestershire sauce. These flavors, when complemented by the garlic and cheesiness, create a pop of taste in every bite. Adjust the seasoning of the filling as needed; I often find a pinch of extra salt or even a dash of hot sauce can enhance the flavors.

Baking Tips for the Perfect Texture

Baking the jalapeno poppers correctly is key to achieving that golden, bubbly top. Keep an eye on your oven during the last few minutes of baking; the filling should be melted and the tops slightly browned. I usually rotate the baking sheet halfway through to ensure even cooking, especially if your oven has hot spots. You'll know they’re done when they are nicely puffed with slightly crisp edges, a visual indicator that the cheese is perfectly melded together.

If you prefer a bit of crunch on top, consider mixing breadcrumbs with a touch of olive oil and sprinkling them over the filling before baking. This adds a delightful texture contrast to the creamy filling and spicy jalapeno. For a touch of decadence, you can also finish the poppers with a drizzle of balsamic glaze once they’re out of the oven, offering a sweet-tangy bite against the backdrop of rich cheese.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make these delectable Creamy Caesar Jalapeno Poppers:

Ingredients

12 fresh jalapenos
1 cup cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup Caesar dressing
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon minced garlic
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Gather all these ingredients, and we’ll get started!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Creamy Caesar Jalapeno Poppers:

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes carefully using a spoon. Set them aside.

Make the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, Caesar dressing, mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and well combined.

Fill the Jalapenos

Spoon the filling generously into each jalapeno half, ensuring they are well stuffed. Place the filled jalapenos on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.

Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy your delicious Creamy Caesar Jalapeno Poppers!

Now you’re ready to impress your friends and family with these scrumptious poppers!

Pro Tips

For a variation, try adding crispy bacon bits to the filling for an extra layer of flavor.

Make-Ahead and Storage

These Creamy Caesar Jalapeno Poppers can be prepared in advance, making them a great choice for busy hosts. You can assemble the poppers up to 24 hours before baking. After filling the jalapenos, cover them tightly with plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, simply pop them in the preheated oven right from the fridge, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time to ensure they heat through completely.

If you find yourself with leftovers, these poppers store well for a few days in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through and slightly crisped again. Avoid using the microwave, as this can make the poppers soggy and lose their appealing texture.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

While Creamy Caesar Jalapeno Poppers stand deliciously on their own, they pair beautifully with a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping, adding a cooling contrast to the heat. For an added flavor twist, consider serving them with a zesty lime wedge to squeeze over the top right before eating, which brightens the flavors remarkably.

If you want to mix things up, try incorporating bacon into the filling for a smoky depth. Simply cook and crumble a few slices of bacon, then fold them into the cheese mixture. Alternatively, experiment with different cheeses—pepper jack can add an extra kick, while cheddar can bring a rich, sharp flavor to the mix, offering a unique twist on a classic appetizer.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these poppers ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the jalapenos and filling a few hours in advance. Just assemble and bake them right before serving.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best results.

→ Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses such as pepper jack for a spicier kick.

→ What's a good dip to serve with these?

Ranch dressing or a zesty avocado dip work beautifully as accompaniments.