Jalapeno Poppers Stuffed with Black Beans

Name: Jalapeno Poppers Stuffed with Black Beans
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 pieces
Ingredients: 12 large jalapeno peppers; 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed; 4 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack); 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil spray

Highlighted under: Inspired Meals

I absolutely love making Jalapeno Poppers stuffed with black beans! They offer a delightful twist on the traditional recipe, combining the smokiness of roasted jalapenos with a creamy, savory black bean filling. Each popper is a burst of flavor that's perfect for parties, as a snack, or even a fun appetizer at dinner. The best part? They are simple to prepare and can be customized with your favorite spices. Trust me, once you try these, you won't want to go back to the classic version!

Created by

Xenia Radcliffe

Last updated on 2026-01-05T22:49:34.491Z

My adventures with Jalapeno Poppers began when I wanted a healthier yet equally satisfying snack for our game night. I decided to stuff them with black beans, and the result was amazing! The combination of flavors really hit the spot. Plus, black beans offer a great source of protein, making these poppers not just delicious but also nutritious!

I found that roasting the jalapenos enhances their smoky flavor without overwhelming heat. Making a creamy filling with black beans and cream cheese was a game-changer. Now, whenever I prepare these, everyone asks for the recipe and they disappear in minutes!

        Why You'll Love These Poppers
        Creamy black bean filling adds a unique twist.
Perfectly smoky and just the right amount of heat.
Quick and easy to prepare for any gathering.

      

Perfectly Roasted Jalapenos

Selecting the right jalapenos is crucial for this recipe. Look for firm, shiny peppers that have a vibrant green color and no blemishes. Medium-sized jalapenos usually have a balanced heat level and make ideal vessels for stuffing. If you prefer a milder option, opting for larger peppers often means fewer seeds and less spice.

When preparing your jalapenos, wearing gloves is advisable to protect your skin from the pepper’s oils, which can cause irritation. After slicing the peppers in half and removing the seeds, you can give them a quick rinse if you want to tone down the heat even further. This step can also help eliminate any residual spiciness.

Crafting the Ideal Filling

The cream cheese in this recipe provides a rich, creamy texture that perfectly complements the black beans. This creamy foundation also helps to hold the filling together while enhancing the overall flavor profile. If you want a lighter alternative to cream cheese, consider using Greek yogurt; just be cautious about using a thicker brand to maintain consistency.

For added depth, try mixing in some spices or fresh herbs of your choice. Chopped cilantro or a pinch of smoked paprika can heighten the flavor. Additionally, customizing the cheese used can lead to exciting variations; for instance, using pepper jack cheese can boost the heat level significantly.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Jalapeno Poppers stuffed with black beans:

Ingredients

12 large jalapeno peppers
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
4 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil spray

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let's get cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your delicious Jalapeno Poppers:

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Carefully slice each jalapeno in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes for a milder flavor. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Make the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the black beans, cream cheese, shredded cheese, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mash it all together until well mixed and creamy.

Stuff the Jalapenos

Spoon the bean mixture into each jalapeno half, filling them generously. Spray the tops lightly with olive oil to help them crisp up in the oven.

Bake the Poppers

Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the jalapenos are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve and Enjoy

Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce, if desired.

Enjoy your spicy and creamy Jalapeno Poppers as a tasty snack or appetizer!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding diced onions or chopped cilantro to the filling. If you prefer an even spicier version, leave some seeds in the jalapenos.

Make-Ahead Tips

One of my favorite things about these jalapeno poppers is that they can be made ahead of time. Prepare the jalapenos and the filling, then stuff the peppers and place them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. When you're ready to serve, just pop them in the oven directly from the fridge, extending the baking time by a few minutes to ensure they are heated through.

If you're looking to freeze some poppers for later, assemble them as usual, then place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months and cooked directly from frozen—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Serving Suggestions

These jalapeno poppers pair beautifully with a variety of dipping sauces. A cooling avocado cilantro cream or classic sour cream can balance out the heat from the jalapenos. For those who enjoy a bit more tang, serve them with a zesty salsa or a homemade ranch dressing for an added flavor kick.

To elevate your appetizer game, consider serving these poppers alongside a fresh vegetable platter or tortilla chips. It creates a wonderful snack spread that's perfect for gatherings or game nights. You can even chop up some of the jalapenos and mix them into the filling for an extra burst of heat; just be cautious with the quantity for those who prefer milder flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other beans instead of black beans?

Absolutely! You can use pinto beans or even refried beans for a different taste and texture.

→ How can I make these poppers vegan?

Use a plant-based cream cheese alternative and omit the cheese or replace it with a vegan cheese substitute.

→ Can I prepare these ahead of time?

Yes! You can stuff the jalapenos and refrigerate them until you're ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes for baking time if they're cold.

→ What dipping sauces pair well with these poppers?

I recommend serving them with salsa, guacamole, or ranch dressing for a delicious complement to the spiciness.