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Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers

bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers - featured image

These crispy bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers combine smoky bacon, creamy cheese, and a spicy kick for a quick and easy appetizer perfect for parties and casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 medium-sized fresh jalapeños, sliced in half lengthwise and seeded
  • 8 ounces (225 g) full-fat cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 12 strips thin to medium-cut bacon
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 cup (50 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • Pinch of salt
  • Pinch of black pepper
  • Optional: dash of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Wearing gloves, slice each jalapeño in half lengthwise and scrape out seeds and membranes to control heat level.
  3. In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and fully blended.
  4. Fill each jalapeño half generously with the cream cheese mixture using a spoon or small spatula.
  5. Wrap one strip of bacon around each stuffed jalapeño half, securing the ends underneath. Use toothpicks if needed.
  6. Place each bacon-wrapped popper on a wire rack set over a rimmed baking sheet, leaving space between each.
  7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, checking around 15 minutes for bacon doneness. Adjust oven temperature if bacon browns too fast.
  8. Let the poppers rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Use gloves when handling jalapeños to avoid skin irritation. For crispier bacon, use a wire rack to allow air circulation. If bacon isn’t crisping well, broil for a couple of minutes but watch closely to avoid burning. You can flip poppers halfway through baking if not using a wire rack. Remove seeds for milder heat or leave some for more spice. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes to maintain crispiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: jalapeño poppers, bacon-wrapped, appetizer, party food, spicy snack, cream cheese, easy recipe