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Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers

bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers - featured image

These crispy bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers feature a creamy filling of cream cheese and sharp cheddar with fresh herbs, delivering a perfect balance of spicy, smoky, and creamy flavors. Ideal for quick snacks, parties, or game days.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 medium-sized fresh jalapeños
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 12 slices thin-cut bacon
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 2 tablespoons fresh chives, finely chopped (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper. If available, place a wire rack on top for even bacon crisping.
  2. Wear gloves and slice each jalapeño in half lengthwise. Scoop out seeds and membranes to control heat level.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, chopped chives, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth. Add a teaspoon of milk if mixture is too thick.
  4. Fill each jalapeño half generously with the cheese mixture using a spoon or piping bag.
  5. Wrap each stuffed jalapeño half with one slice of bacon, securing with a toothpick if needed. The bacon should overlap slightly but not cover the entire popper.
  6. Place the wrapped poppers on the baking sheet or wire rack with the bacon seam side down.
  7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, turning once halfway through if not using a wire rack, until bacon is crispy and filling is bubbly. Watch closely after 20 minutes to avoid burning.
  8. Let the poppers rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the filling to set.

Notes

Wear gloves when handling jalapeños to avoid skin irritation. Use a wire rack for crispier bacon or turn poppers halfway through baking if not using one. Avoid overfilling to prevent filling leakage. Precook bacon slightly if short on time, but raw bacon yields best texture. Broil for 1-2 minutes at the end if bacon isn’t crisping well, watching closely to prevent burning.

Nutrition

Keywords: jalapeño poppers, bacon-wrapped, creamy filling, spicy snack, appetizer, game day food, party food