Philly Cheesesteak Jalapeno Poppers

Name: Philly Cheesesteak Jalapeno Poppers
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 poppers
Ingredients: 12 large jalapenos, halved and seeds removed; 1 lb (450g) thinly sliced ribeye steak or flank steak; 8 oz (227g) cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 1 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Bacon bits (optional, for topping)

Highlighted under: Global Bites

I love making Philly Cheesesteak Jalapeno Poppers for game day or a cozy gathering with friends. The combination of tender beef, gooey cheese, and spicy jalapenos creates a burst of flavor that never fails to impress. These poppers are a fun twist on the classic cheesesteak, giving just the right amount of heat without overwhelming the palate. Whether you grill or bake them, the result is a snack that’s hard to resist. Serve them hot for a mouthwatering appetizer that’s sure to steal the show!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-15T11:45:30.897Z

While experimenting with different jalapeno popper fillings, I stumbled upon the combination of Philly cheesesteak ingredients and knew I had struck gold. The use of thinly sliced steak melds perfectly with cream cheese and shredded cheddar, creating a savory stuffing ideal for jalapenos. Baking them ensures they are crispy on the outside while remaining creamy and delicious inside.

I've learned that for the best results, selecting fresh, firm jalapenos is key. You want just the right balance of heat and flavor without overwhelming the dish. These poppers can also be spiced up further, so feel free to adjust according to your taste preferences!

        Why You'll Love These Poppers
        A perfect balance of spicy and savory flavors
Gooey, cheesy filling with tender beef
A crowd-pleaser, perfect for any occasion

      

Choosing the Right Jalapenos

When selecting jalapenos for your poppers, look for firm, vibrant green peppers that have a smooth skin, which indicates freshness. The size of the jalapenos matters too; larger ones provide more filling and are easier to stuff. Be cautious of the heat level; while most jalapenos are mild, some can pack quite a punch. If you're unsure, cut a small piece and taste it before you begin, or opt for a mix of jalapenos and other mild peppers to balance the spice.

To enhance the flavor of the jalapenos, you can choose to roast them slightly before stuffing. Simply char them on a hot grill or under a broiler for a few minutes until the skin blisters. This not only adds a smoky element to your poppers but can also mellow out some of the heat, making them more palatable for those who are sensitive to spice.

Perfecting the Cheese Mixture

The base of your filling should have a creamy texture that complements the beef while providing moisture, and cream cheese is ideal for this. Make sure it’s softened to room temperature, as this ensures an even distribution when mixing with the steak and cheddar. I recommend whisking the cream cheese separately before adding other ingredients to avoid lumps.

In addition to the standard cheeses, consider adding a sprinkle of Parmesan or a touch of spicy pepper jack for an extra depth of flavor. You can also blend in herbs like chopped fresh parsley or cilantro for a fresh twist that contrasts with the richness of the beef and cheese.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

These Philly Cheesesteak Jalapeno Poppers are great on their own but can be taken to the next level with dipping sauces. A classic ranch or blue cheese dressing pairs wonderfully, providing a cooling effect against the heat of the jalapenos. For a tangy kick, serve them with a zesty aioli or spicy ketchup that enhances their savoriness.

If you're planning a full menu around these poppers for game day, consider setting up a build-your-own slider station alongside them. Use the same steak filling and provide mini buns, toppings, and sauces for a fun and interactive meal that keeps the party going.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your Philly Cheesesteak Jalapeno Poppers.

Ingredients

12 large jalapenos, halved and seeds removed
1 lb (450g) thinly sliced ribeye steak or flank steak
8 oz (227g) cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Bacon bits (optional, for topping)

Make sure to prep everything in advance for a smoother cooking experience.

Instructions

Let's get started on making these delicious poppers!

Cook the Steak

In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté the chopped onion until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute. Then, add the sliced steak, season with salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce.

Cook until steak is browned, approximately 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.

Prepare the Filling

In a bowl, combine the cooled steak mixture with cream cheese and shredded cheddar. Mix until well combined and set aside.

Stuff the Jalapenos

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Stuff each jalapeno half with the cheese and steak mixture, pressing lightly to ensure they are filled well. If desired, sprinkle bacon bits on top.

Bake

Arrange the stuffed jalapenos on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 20 minutes, or until the jalapenos are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Let the poppers cool slightly before serving. They’ll be scalding hot!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, top your poppers with a drizzle of hot sauce or a sprinkle of fresh herbs before serving. Adjust the level of spiciness by leaving some seeds in the jalapenos if you prefer more heat.

Make-Ahead Tips

These jalapeno poppers can be prepared in advance, making them a perfect candidate for party prep. You can stuff the jalapenos and place them on a baking sheet, then cover and refrigerate them for up to a day before baking. Just remember to bring them to room temperature before popping them into the oven to ensure even cooking.

If you prefer freezing, arrange the stuffed jalapenos on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored this way for up to three months. When ready to cook, bake them directly from the freezer, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your jalapeno poppers come out soggy, it may be due to not removing all the seeds and membranes, which hold moisture. Be thorough in de-seeding and consider pre-baking the jalapenos for about 5 minutes to soften them slightly before stuffing. This can also help reduce any residual moisture in the final product.

If the cheese mixture is too runny, it may not hold its shape during baking. Try adding a bit more cream cheese or shredded cheese to thicken the mixture. Alternatively, chilling the filled peppers for 30 minutes before baking can help firm up the filling and ensure that it sets nicely as they cook.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe is easily scalable for larger gatherings. If you're expecting a crowd, simply double or triple the ingredients while being cautious to keep the proportions consistent. Remember that the baking time might also increase slightly, so keep an eye on the jalapenos for that golden, bubbly cheese.

For a mix of flavors or dietary preferences, you can experiment with different types of proteins such as shredded chicken or lentils for a vegetarian version. Adjust the seasonings accordingly to ensure the flavors remain balanced with the cream cheese and spices.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of meat?

Absolutely! Chicken or turkey can be used as substitutes for beef, and they work wonderfully.

→ How can I make these vegetarian?

You can replace the meat with sautéed mushrooms or a mixture of your favorite veggies along with the cream cheese.

→ Can these be made ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the jalapenos and filling, stuff them, and then store them in the fridge for up to a day before baking.

→ What dipping sauces go well with these poppers?

A creamy ranch or a spicy aioli pairs perfectly with the poppers, enhancing their flavors.