Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers

Crispy, smoky bacon wrapped around jalapeño peppers stuffed with a rich, cheesy filling—these Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers are the ultimate savory appetizer. Perfect for game day, BBQs, or party platters, they deliver the perfect balance of spice, creaminess, and crunch.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistibly cheesy: The creamy cream cheese and shredded cheddar filling makes each bite incredibly satisfying.
• Crispy bacon: The smoky, crispy bacon adds a perfect crunch, making these poppers an irresistible snack.
• Perfectly balanced: With the spicy jalapeños, creamy filling, and crispy bacon, each bite is the perfect combination of flavors and textures.
• Quick and easy: Ready in just 40 minutes, these poppers are easy to prepare for any occasion.
• Perfect for gatherings: These are a crowd-pleasing favorite for game day, BBQs, parties, or anytime you want a flavorful bite.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 10 jalapeño peppers, halved and seeded
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 10 slices of bacon, halved
• Toothpicks (for securing, optional)

directions

1. Preheat the oven or grill: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) or heat up your grill.
2. Make the filling: In a bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and well-combined.
3. Stuff the jalapeños: Spoon the cheese mixture into each jalapeño half, filling them generously.
4. Wrap with bacon: Wrap each stuffed jalapeño with a half-slice of bacon. Secure with a toothpick if necessary to keep the bacon in place.
5. Cook: Place the poppers on a baking sheet lined with foil or a grill-safe tray. Bake or grill for 20–25 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the peppers are tender.
6. Serve: Let cool slightly before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 10 poppers
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Calories: Approximately 180 kcal per popper

Variations

• Add cheese: For extra cheesy goodness, sprinkle some more shredded cheese on top of the stuffed jalapeños before wrapping them with bacon.
• Use turkey bacon: For a leaner option, substitute turkey bacon for regular bacon.
• Make it spicier: Add some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the cream cheese mixture for extra heat.
• Use a different cheese: Swap in pepper jack, mozzarella, or even gouda for a different cheese flavor.
• Make it vegetarian: Skip the bacon and wrap the stuffed jalapeños in a layer of puff pastry for a vegetarian twist.

storage/reheating

Store any leftover poppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until the bacon crisps up again and the cheese is warmed through. You can also reheat them in the microwave, but the bacon won’t stay crispy.

FAQs

Can I make these in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the poppers and refrigerate them before cooking. Simply bake or grill them when you’re ready to serve.

Can I use a different type of pepper?

While jalapeños are traditional, you can use poblano peppers or banana peppers for a milder option.

Can I use a different cheese?

Yes, you can use a variety of cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or even cream cheese for a different twist.

How do I keep the bacon crispy?

Ensure the bacon is fully wrapped around the jalapeño and secure with a toothpick if necessary. Cooking the poppers at a high temperature (400°F) ensures the bacon becomes crispy.

Can I make these spicy?

Yes! Add extra chopped jalapeños to the cream cheese filling or drizzle with hot sauce for an added kick.

How can I make these vegetarian?

To make them vegetarian, omit the bacon and either use a vegetarian substitute or wrap the poppers in puff pastry for a unique twist.

Can I cook these on the grill?

Yes, these poppers can be grilled instead of baked. Simply place them on the grill and cook for about 20-25 minutes or until the bacon is crispy.

Conclusion

Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers are the ultimate party appetizer, combining spicy jalapeños, creamy cheese, and crispy bacon for an irresistible bite. Whether you’re preparing for a BBQ, a game day snack, or a gathering, these poppers are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Quick to make and packed with flavor, they’re perfect for any occasion!

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