Mango Jalapeno Salsa Poppers

Name: Mango Jalapeno Salsa Poppers
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 large jalapeno peppers; 1 ripe mango, diced; 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice; 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped; Salt to taste

Highlighted under: Culture Inspired Recipes

I absolutely love making Mango Jalapeno Salsa Poppers for gatherings! The combination of sweet mango and spicy jalapenos creates a burst of flavor that is always a hit. Each bite carries a perfect balance of heat and sweetness, making them an ideal appetizer for any occasion. I enjoy crafting these poppers because they are simple yet impressive, and they never fail to impress my guests. Plus, they come together quickly and can be prepped ahead of time, allowing me to enjoy the festivities without stress.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-16T12:54:28.554Z

When I first experimented with mango in savory dishes, I knew I had stumbled upon something special. The sweetness of the ripe mango pairs beautifully with the heat of the jalapeno, and I've elevated these flavors by adding a zesty lime dressing. Each time I serve these poppers, people rave about them, and it's always rewarding to see my friends enjoy something I've created.

One tip I learned is to deseed the jalapenos for a more subtle heat. If you prefer more spice, feel free to leave some seeds in! The creaminess of the cheese filling complements the crunchy texture of the poppers, making for a delightful finger food that's perfect for parties or casual gatherings.

        Why You'll Love These Poppers
        Bursting with fresh flavors that excite your palate
A delightful mix of sweetness and heat in every bite
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for last-minute gatherings

      

Perfecting the Filling

The filling for these poppers is where the magic happens. When combining ingredients, make sure the cream cheese is sufficiently softened; this allows for a smooth mixture without lumps. If you're short on time, you can cut the cream cheese into small cubes and microwave it for about 15-20 seconds to soften it quickly. The key here is achieving a creamy texture that holds together while also providing a luscious mouthfeel with every bite.

The freshness of the mango is essential for balancing the spiciness of the jalapenos. Choose a fully ripe mango, as it should be fragrant and slightly soft to the touch. This ripeness results in a sweeter, juicier fruit that contrasts beautifully with the heat of the peppers. If mango isn’t in season, you can substitute with diced peach or pineapple, though be mindful that the flavor profile will subtly shift.

Baking Tips for Success

Baking time is crucial for achieving perfect poppers. You want the cheese to be bubbly and slightly golden, without overcooking the peppers, which can lead to a mushy texture. A good visual cue is when the edges start to brown slightly, indicating that the filling is heated through while the peppers remain tender. Depending on your oven, baking might take an additional 2-3 minutes, so keep an eye on them toward the end.

For an extra layer of flavor, consider sprinkling a bit of smoked paprika or chili powder over the filled jalapenos before baking. This addition enhances the overall taste profile, bringing a hint of smokiness that complements the sweetness of the mango. A dash of freshly cracked black pepper can also elevate the dish if you enjoy a bit more heat.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare your Mango Jalapeno Salsa Poppers:

Ingredients

4 large jalapeno peppers
1 ripe mango, diced
1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
Salt to taste

These ingredients will create the perfect blend of sweetness and spice for your poppers!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create delicious Mango Jalapeno Salsa Poppers:

Prepare the jalapenos

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

Make the filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the diced mango, cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, lime juice, chopped cilantro, and salt. Mix until well incorporated.

Stuff the jalapenos

Spoon the filling into each jalapeno half, ensuring they are generously filled.

Bake

Place the stuffed jalapenos on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and the jalapenos are slightly tender.

Once done, let them cool for a few minutes before serving!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, try adding diced red onion to the filling mixture. Serve with tortilla chips or on their own for a perfect appetizer.

Serving Suggestions

These Mango Jalapeno Salsa Poppers can be served on their own as a standout appetizer, or you can pair them with a refreshing dipping sauce. A cooling yogurt or sour cream dip can help mellow the heat for those who prefer milder flavors. Simply mix plain yogurt with lime juice and a sprinkle of salt for a quick dip that enhances the flavors of the poppers.

If you're serving at a party, presenting your poppers on a colorful platter garnished with extra cilantro and lime wedges can make a visually appealing spread. Consider adding some tortilla chips and guacamole to create a festive snack table, drawing guests into enjoying a variety of flavors together.

Make-Ahead and Storage

One of the great advantages of this recipe is its make-ahead potential. You can prepare the jalapenos filled with the mango mixture a day in advance and store them covered in the refrigerator. Just bake them fresh when guests arrive, ensuring they are warm and comforting, straight from the oven.

If you find yourself with leftovers, they're easy to store. Allow the poppers to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, pop them back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through, avoiding the microwave, which can make them soggy.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these poppers ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the jalapenos and filling in advance, then just bake them right before serving.

→ What can I substitute for cream cheese?

You can substitute cream cheese with ricotta or cottage cheese for a lighter option.

→ How spicy are these poppers?

They are mildly spicy, especially if you remove the seeds. If you prefer more heat, leave some seeds in or use spicier peppers.

→ Can I grill these instead of baking?

Absolutely! Grilling them will give a nice smoky flavor, just make sure they are secured on the grill to prevent them from falling through.