Name: Jalapeño Popper Pizza
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 ball pizza dough (homemade or store-bought); 2 fresh jalapeños (sliced and seeds removed for mild heat); 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil; 6 ounces cream cheese (softened to room temperature); 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 1½ cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 2 tablespoons finely chopped chives (optional for garnish)

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When I discovered I could turn my favorite jalapeño poppers into pizza form, it was during one of those “what’s for dinner” moments when I had pizza dough thawing and leftover cream cheese from making my cottage cheese alfredo. My kids were immediately suspicious – they know I’m always sneaking protein into their meals – but after that first bite, my teenager actually said “Mom, this doesn’t taste healthy at all!” That’s when I knew I had a winner.

This Jalapeño Popper Pizza captures every single flavor you love about the classic appetizer but makes it infinitely easier to prepare and share. Instead of stuffing and breading individual jalapeños, you get that same creamy, spicy, cheesy experience in every single slice. The cream cheese base creates that signature jalapeño popper richness while delivering serious protein power. You’re going to love this one!

Ingredients for Jalapeño Popper Pizza

I always make sure my cream cheese is completely softened before starting – it’s the difference between smooth, spreadable perfection and frustrating lumps that refuse to cooperate with your pizza dough.

1 ball pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
2 fresh jalapeños, sliced with seeds removed (leave seeds for extra heat) – I recommend using fresh over canned for better texture and cleaner heat
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
6 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature – My preference is full-fat for maximum richness and protein content
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1½ cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese – In my experience, freshly shredded melts much better than pre-packaged
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (not sliced)
2 tablespoons finely chopped chives for garnish (optional) – I usually add these for color and a mild onion finish

Step-by-Step Instructions

I recommend having all your toppings ready before you start assembly – this pizza comes together quickly once you begin.

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 450°F and lightly coat a pizza pan or baking sheet with olive oil. Work the pizza dough with your hands to form a 10-inch circle, then transfer to your prepared pan lined with parchment paper. Don’t worry about perfect circles – rustic edges actually look better.

Step 2: In a small bowl, mix the room temperature cream cheese with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until completely smooth and lump-free. This seasoned cream cheese replaces traditional pizza sauce and creates that signature jalapeño popper base.

Step 3: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the pizza dough, leaving about ¾ to 1 inch border around the edges for proper crust formation. This border is crucial – it prevents overflow and gives you that perfect pizza crust texture.

Step 4: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella first, then layer the Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the surface. Top with your sliced jalapeños, distributing them evenly so every slice gets consistent heat and flavor.

Step 5: Bake for 15-20 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly with lightly browned spots. Let cool for 2-3 minutes before adding optional chives and slicing – this prevents the molten cheese from sliding off your pizza.

What to Serve with Jalapeño Popper Pizza

This rich, creamy pizza pairs beautifully with fresh, cooling sides that balance the heat and complement the protein content.

Chickpea Beet and Feta Salad: The crisp vegetables and tangy feta provide refreshing contrast while adding extra protein and fiber to make this a complete, satisfying meal.

Ranch or Blue Cheese Dipping Sauce: These classic cooling dips are perfect for managing the jalapeño heat while adding extra indulgence that makes this feel like a true appetizer experience.

High Protein Breakfast Bowls: For weekend brunch, pair small pizza slices with a protein-packed side that creates a filling, balanced meal.

Crispy Vegetable Sticks: Raw celery, carrots, and bell pepper strips offer satisfying crunch and help cleanse the palate between rich, cheesy bites.

Cold Beer or Sparkling Water with Lime: Carbonated beverages cut through the richness while cooling the heat, making each bite as enjoyable as the first.

Storage & Serving Tips

Store leftover pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or wrap individual slices for easy grab-and-go meals throughout the week.

For reheating, I recommend using a 350°F oven for 8-10 minutes to restore that crispy crust texture – the microwave will make the crust soggy and separate the cheese layers. Pro tip: place a small oven-safe dish of water on the bottom rack to prevent the crust from becoming too hard.

This pizza works wonderfully cut into small squares for parties, and you can easily adjust the heat level by controlling jalapeño seeds. For meal prep, consider making the cream cheese base ahead of time and storing it in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Conclusion

This Jalapeño Popper Pizza delivers all those addictive appetizer flavors in an easy, shareable format that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of creamy cheese base, spicy jalapeños, and melted cheese creates a satisfying high-protein meal that’s both comforting and exciting. Give this recipe a try – it’s become our go-to for pizza night when we want something different from the usual pepperoni routine!