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Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers

bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers - featured image

A quick and easy snack featuring jalapeños stuffed with a creamy cheese filling, wrapped in crispy bacon. Perfect for parties, game days, or any time you want a flavorful, indulgent bite.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 medium fresh jalapeños, halved and seeded
  • 8 ounces (225 grams) full-fat cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup (50 grams) shredded sharp cheddar cheese (optional)
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
  • Thin-cut bacon strips (about 8-12 slices, cut in half if large)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C).
  2. Wearing gloves, slice each jalapeño in half lengthwise and carefully scoop out the seeds and membranes, leaving some membranes if you want more heat.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth. Stir in chopped cilantro if desired.
  4. Fill each jalapeño half generously with the cream cheese mixture using a small spoon or piping bag, being careful not to overfill.
  5. Cut bacon slices in half if large. Wrap each stuffed jalapeño half with a bacon piece, securing the ends underneath or with a toothpick if necessary.
  6. Place poppers on a wire rack set over a rimmed baking sheet or directly on a foil-lined baking sheet, bacon seam side down.
  7. Bake for 20–25 minutes, turning once halfway through if needed, until bacon is crispy and filling is bubbly but not leaking.
  8. Let poppers cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Wear gloves when handling jalapeños to avoid skin irritation. Use a wire rack for crispier bacon. Adjust baking time if using thick-cut bacon. Let poppers cool slightly before eating to avoid filling spills. For milder poppers, remove all seeds and membranes. Can be grilled wrapped in foil packets for a smoky flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: jalapeño poppers, bacon wrapped, cream cheese, appetizer, snack, party food, game day, easy recipe