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Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers

bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers - featured image

These crispy bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers feature a creamy, spicy filling wrapped in smoky bacon, perfect as a quick and addictive snack or appetizer.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 10 medium-sized jalapeño peppers, halved and seeded
  • 8 ounces (225 g) cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 10 slices thin-cut bacon
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 cup (60 g) shredded cheddar cheese
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Optional: 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and set a wire rack on top if available.
  2. Slice each jalapeño in half lengthwise and carefully scoop out the seeds and membranes.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
  4. Spoon the cream cheese mixture into each jalapeño half, smoothing the top without overfilling.
  5. Cut bacon slices in half if needed to fit the jalapeños. Wrap each filled jalapeño half with a bacon strip, securing with a toothpick if necessary.
  6. Arrange the poppers on the wire rack or directly on the foil-lined baking sheet, spaced apart.
  7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, turning once halfway through if not using a wire rack, until bacon is crisp and jalapeños are softened but firm.
  8. Cool slightly before serving as the cheese will be hot and melty.

Notes

Use gloves when handling jalapeños to avoid irritation. Softened cream cheese is essential for smooth filling. Thin-cut bacon crisps faster; adjust baking time for thick-cut. Using a wire rack helps bacon crisp by allowing fat to drip away. Poppers can be prepped ahead and refrigerated up to 24 hours before baking. Broil 1-2 minutes if bacon is not crisp enough. Avoid microwaving leftovers to keep bacon crispy.

Nutrition

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