Print

Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers

bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers - featured image

A quick and easy appetizer featuring jalapeños stuffed with a creamy cheese filling, wrapped in crispy bacon. Perfect for parties or a satisfying snack with a balance of spicy, creamy, and smoky flavors.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 medium fresh jalapeño peppers
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 12 slices thin-cut bacon
  • Optional: chopped fresh cilantro
  • Optional: smoked paprika
  • Optional: crumbled cooked sausage

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C).
  2. Wearing gloves, slice each jalapeño in half lengthwise and remove seeds and membranes to your spice preference. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth. Add optional cilantro or smoked paprika if desired.
  4. Stuff each jalapeño half evenly with the cheese mixture using a spoon or piping bag.
  5. Wrap each stuffed jalapeño half with one slice of bacon, securing the ends underneath if needed.
  6. Place the wrapped poppers seam side down on the baking sheet.
  7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, checking at 15 minutes to rotate the tray for even cooking. Bacon should be crisp and browned, filling bubbling slightly.
  8. Optional: Broil for 1-2 minutes for extra crispness, watching carefully to avoid burning.
  9. Let poppers cool slightly before serving to allow filling to set.

Notes

Wear gloves when handling jalapeños to avoid irritation. Use thin-cut bacon for best crispness. Do not overcrowd the baking sheet to ensure even cooking. Poppers can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking. Reheat in oven or under broiler to restore crispness. Avoid microwaving to keep bacon crispy.

Nutrition

Keywords: bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers, appetizer, easy snack, party food, spicy, creamy, bacon, jalapeños