Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers
Spicy jalapeños filled with creamy cheese, wrapped in crispy bacon. A perfect savory, bold appetizer for parties or game day that offers a delightful contrast of textures and flavors.
Equipment
- 1 oven (preheated to 400 °F)
- 1 baking sheet (lined with parchment or foil)
- 1 rack (optional, for baking)
- 1 mixing bowl
- 1 spoon
Ingredients
- 6 fresh jalapeños halved lengthwise and seeded
- 6 oz cream cheese softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 6 slices bacon cut in half
- Optional: toothpicks soaked in water
- Optional add-ins: 2 tablespoons chopped green onions
- Optional add-ins: 2 tablespoons cooked crumbled sausage
- Optional add-ins: pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400 °F (200 °C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
- Place a rack on the baking sheet if available to allow even cooking.
- In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Stir in any optional add-ins like green onions, sausage, or cayenne if desired.
- Fill each jalapeño half generously with the cheese mixture without overflowing.
- Wrap each stuffed jalapeño with half a slice of bacon and secure with a soaked toothpick if needed.
- Place the poppers seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until bacon is crispy and filling is bubbly.
- Optionally broil for 2 to 3 minutes to enhance crispiness.
- Let cool slightly before serving warm with preferred dipping sauces.
Notes
- Soak jalapeños in cold water for 20 minutes to reduce heat.
- Use pepper jack cheese for added spiciness.
- Air fryer cooking: 375 °F for 10–12 minutes.
- Assemble ahead and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.