Super Bowl Appetizer Stuffed Jalapeno Boats

Name: Super Bowl Appetizer Stuffed Jalapeno Boats
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 12 large jalapenos; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon; 1/4 cup green onions, chopped; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp paprika; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Everyday Cooking

I absolutely love making these Super Bowl Appetizer Stuffed Jalapeno Boats! They’re a crowd-pleaser at any gathering, and the combination of creamy cheese and spicy jalapenos creates a perfect flavor explosion. Each bite packs a punch while being easy to prepare, making them the ultimate finger food. I enjoy customizing the filling with various cheeses and spices to suit my guests’ preferences. Trust me, these boats are sure to steal the show at your next game day celebration!

Created by

Saskia Morton

Last updated on 2026-01-11T21:29:35.098Z

When I first decided to make these stuffed jalapenos, I was concerned they might be too spicy for my guests. However, I was pleasantly surprised by how the creamy cheese balance the heat perfectly. I’ve learned that adjusting the level of spice by removing the seeds can create a milder version that even the hesitant spice lovers can enjoy!

Another fun tip is to prepare the stuffing ahead of time and store it in the fridge. This not only saves time on the day of the event but also allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Baking them just before serving ensures they’re hot and melted, adding that extra touch of comfort to the dish.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich, creamy filling that complements the spice of fresh jalapenos
Easy to customize with your favorite cheeses and proteins
Perfect for sharing at parties or gatherings

      

The Importance of Choosing Jalapenos

When selecting jalapenos for your stuffed boats, opt for those that are firm and bright green for the best flavor. Avoid any that show signs of wrinkling or softness, as these may indicate overripeness. The heat level can vary among jalapenos, so tasting one before using them can help you decide how much spice to expect in the final dish.

If you'd like to experiment with different types of heat, consider using a combination of jalapenos and milder peppers like poblano or Anaheim. This can provide a unique flavor dimension without overwhelming your guests. Just remember to adjust the filling ingredients accordingly to balance the heat and taste.

Customizing Your Filling

The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. Feel free to swap out the cheddar for different cheeses such as pepper jack or feta to bring in added flavor profiles. You can also play with the add-ins by mixing in some diced bell peppers or different herbs like cilantro to elevate the taste.

For those looking for a healthier option, you can replace cream cheese with Greek yogurt or a lower-fat cream cheese alternative. Just keep in mind that this may alter the consistency slightly; make sure to mix until it reaches a smooth texture before stuffing the jalapenos.

Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients to prepare these tasty stuffed jalapenos:

For the Stuffed Jalapeno Boats

12 large jalapenos
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
1/4 cup green onions, chopped
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

Now that you have everything ready, you can start stuffing those jalapenos!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious stuffed jalapeno boats:

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes for a milder flavor.

Make the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, crumbled bacon, green onions, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Stuff the Jalapenos

Using a spoon, fill each halved jalapeno with the cheese mixture. Make sure to pack it in generously.

Bake

Place the stuffed jalapenos on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serve

Remove from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your spicy bites!

These stuffed jalapenos are best served warm. Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauces!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add chopped jalapeno peppers to the cheese filling or drizzle with hot sauce before serving.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These stuffed jalapeno boats can be prepared a day in advance, making them a convenient choice for busy game days. Once stuffed, place them on a baking sheet and cover with plastic wrap, storing them in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake. This not only saves time but allows the flavors to meld beautifully overnight.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. This preserves the texture of the peppers and cheese better than microwaving.

Serving Suggestions

These jalapeno boats are best enjoyed hot, straight from the oven. Serve them on a platter with a side of ranch dressing or sour cream for dipping. This cooling element counteracts the heat from the jalapenos and adds an enjoyable creaminess.

For an extra kick, consider garnishing the finished jalapeno boats with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or lime zest just before serving. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a zesty freshness that complements the robust flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the stuffed jalapenos and store them in the fridge, then bake them just before serving.

→ What if I don't like bacon?

You can easily leave out the bacon or substitute it with cooked sausage or diced vegetables.

→ How spicy are these jalapenos?

The spice level depends on the seeds and membranes you remove; leaving some in will make them spicier.

→ Can I freeze the stuffed jalapenos?

Yes! Freeze them before baking and cook straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.