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Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers

bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers - featured image

These crispy bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers feature a creamy, slightly tangy cream cheese filling with a spicy kick, wrapped in smoky, crispy bacon. Perfect as an easy, crowd-pleasing snack or appetizer.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 fresh medium-sized jalapeño peppers, washed and halved lengthwise
  • 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup (50 g) shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
  • 12 slices thin-cut bacon
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.
  2. Wash and halve each jalapeño lengthwise, then carefully scoop out the seeds and membranes using a small spoon or your fingers. Remove all seeds for less heat or keep some membranes for more kick.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and well incorporated.
  4. Using a spoon or small scoop, stuff the cream cheese mixture into the jalapeño cavities, pressing gently to fill completely but without overstuffing.
  5. Wrap each stuffed jalapeño half with a slice of bacon, spiraling it around to secure the filling. Use a toothpick if needed.
  6. Arrange the wrapped poppers seam side down on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each for even cooking.
  7. Bake for 20-25 minutes. Halfway through baking (around 12 minutes), use tongs to carefully flip each popper to crisp bacon evenly on all sides. The bacon should be golden and crispy, and the filling hot and bubbly.
  8. Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Use thin to medium bacon slices for best crispiness. Flip poppers halfway through baking to ensure even cooking. For less heat, remove all jalapeño seeds and membranes or substitute with mini sweet peppers. Baking on a wire rack helps bacon stay crispier by allowing fat to drip away. Avoid overcrowding the pan to prevent steaming. If bacon cooks too fast, lower oven temperature to 375°F and bake longer. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.

Nutrition

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