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Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers

bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers - featured image

These crispy bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers combine smoky bacon with a creamy, spicy cheese filling for an addictive appetizer that’s quick and easy to make.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 medium fresh jalapeños, sliced in half lengthwise
  • 12 slices thin-cut bacon
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened (full-fat recommended)
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro or chives, finely chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Wearing gloves, slice each jalapeño in half lengthwise and scoop out seeds and membranes for less heat if desired. Pat dry with paper towels.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth. Stir in chopped cilantro if using.
  4. Fill each jalapeño half with the cheese mixture using a spoon or small scoop, leaving a little room at the top.
  5. Wrap each stuffed jalapeño half tightly with one slice of bacon. Secure with a toothpick if needed.
  6. Place poppers on a wire rack set over a rimmed baking sheet or directly on the baking sheet, spacing them evenly.
  7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, checking around 15 minutes. Rotate or flip poppers if bacon isn’t crisping evenly.
  8. Let poppers cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Use gloves when handling jalapeños to avoid irritation. Pat jalapeños dry to prevent soggy bacon and filling slide-out. Thin-cut bacon crisps better and is less greasy. Using a wire rack helps bacon crisp evenly. If bacon browns too fast, lower oven temperature to 375°F and extend cooking time. Do not overfill jalapeños to avoid cheese spillover.

Nutrition

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