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Beef Bacon Jalapeño Twists with Cheddar Cream Cheese Filling Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.1 from 90 reviews
  • Author: Elina
  • Prep Time: 50 Minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 Minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 35 Minutes
  • Yield: 24 twists 1x
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Beef Bacon Jalapeño Twists with Cheddar Cream Cheese Filling are a delicious appetizer combining smoky beef bacon, spicy jalapeños, and a creamy, spiced cheddar cream cheese filling. These crispy, golden twists offer a perfect balance of heat and savory flavors, ideal for gatherings or snacks.

Ingredients

Scale

Jalapeño and Bacon

  • 12 medium to large fresh jalapeños
  • 12–16 slices of high-quality beef bacon
  • 24–30 wooden toothpicks

Cheddar Cream Cheese Filling

  • 8 oz (226g) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup (about 4 oz/113g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ¼ teaspoon sea salt
  • ¼ teaspoon fresh black pepper

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare Jalapeños: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Wash and dry the jalapeños, then carefully halve them lengthwise. Using a small spoon, remove all seeds and white membranes to reduce the heat. Wear disposable gloves to protect your hands.
  2. Make the Cheese Filling: In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, sea salt, and black pepper. Mix until smooth and spices are evenly incorporated. Gently fold in shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  3. Assemble the Jalapeño Twists: Fill each jalapeño half generously with the cheese mixture. Lay a slice of beef bacon flat, place one end of the filled jalapeño at the stem end, then wrap the bacon around the jalapeño in a spiral twist, ensuring it sticks snugly. Secure with 1-2 wooden toothpicks piercing through the bacon and jalapeño to hold firmly. Repeat for all halves.
  4. Bake the Twists: Place the wrapped jalapeño twists on the parchment-lined baking sheet, spaced apart for even cooking. Bake for 20-25 minutes, then carefully rotate the baking sheet 180 degrees. Continue baking for another 15-20 minutes until bacon is crispy and golden and jalapeños are tender-crisp. Watch closely near the end to avoid burning.
  5. Rest and Serve: Remove the twists from the oven and let them rest on the sheet for 5-10 minutes to allow filling to set. Remove all toothpicks before serving. Optionally garnish with chopped fresh chives or cilantro and serve warm with dips like ranch, sour cream, or spicy sriracha mayo.

Notes

  • Wear gloves when handling jalapeños to avoid skin irritation.
  • Removing seeds reduces heat but leaves plenty of spice from jalapeño flesh.
  • Use high-quality beef bacon for best flavor and texture.
  • Adjust spices in filling to suit your heat and flavor preferences.
  • Allow twists to rest before serving for safer consumption and better filling texture.
  • Watch oven carefully as baking times can vary depending on your appliance.

Find it online: https://recipes.mbeams.com/beef-bacon-jalapeno-twists-with-cheddar-cream-cheese-filling-recipe/